Executive Speeches

Excerpts from remarks of Michael J. Townsend, vice chairman of the New York Power Authority, at event marking development of a project to produce electricity from landfill gas, Monroe County Landfill, Riga, New York.

January 18, 2007

Thank you, County Executive (Maggie) Brooks, and good afternoon.

The New York Power Authority is proud to join with Monroe County as a partner in this outstanding project.  And—as a resident of the county—it’s a particular honor for me to represent the Power Authority today.

With this project, our county is setting a great example for the entire state of how to capitalize on a local, renewable energy resource to meet energy needs, improve the environment and cut our dependence on foreign oil.

The gas generated at landfills is typically flared off into the air, contributing to environmental problems.  But when used to produce electricity, that same gas is transformed into a clean power source.  If other counties and municipalities pick up on what’s being done here, landfill gas will help New York meet its ambitious goal of obtaining at least 25 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2013.

The $9.7 million project here at the Mill Seat Landfill  is being financed mainly through funds advanced by the Power Authority under its Energy Services Program. 

Also, thanks in large part to the efforts of Senator James Alesi, the county has obtained a $200,000 grant from the funds awarded to New York State as part of the federal government’s settlements with major oil producers for past price violations.  Those funds are administered by the Power Authority and will help to offset the overall project cost.

In addition to its financial role, the Authority has been providing technical oversight and advice and looks forward to doing so as the project moves toward completion.

The 4.8-megawatt project here is in keeping with the Power Authority’s ongoing efforts to promote energy efficiency at public facilities in Monroe County—and throughout the state. To date, we’ve completed energy saving projects at 20 locations in the county, most notably in the City of Rochester and at SUNY Brockport.  Each year, these projects save taxpayers more than $1.2 million, replace close to 45,000 barrels of oil and avoid the emission of more than 16,500 tons of greenhouse gases.

We’re now carrying out another major energy efficiency project at SUNY Brockport and are considering potential new projects for the county and the City of Rochester. 

Energy efficiency and clean new power sources can—and must—play a critical role in meeting the imposing energy challenges that our state and nation face.  Projects like the one here at the county landfill can help show the way toward meeting those challenges. 

On behalf of my fellow Power Authority trustees, I commend the county for its initiative and vision in undertaking this effort.  We are delighted to be part of it.

Thank you.