Energy from biomass

Biomass is organic, non-fossil matter, which is available on a renewable or recurring basis. It can be derived from timber industry, agriculture (including crop and animal waste), and household waste. In Virginia, this resource is often harnessed through the inceneration of municipal solid waste or the recovery of biogas from landfills. Biomass can be used to generate electricity with the same technology used by fossil fuel burning power plants. The use of renewable biomass creates additional value in farm, forestry and other industries, reducing waste streams.

Links

James Madison University Biodiesel research

Information on landfill gas to energy

Information on municipal solid waste as an energy source

Information on biodiesel

Southeastern Regional Biomass Energy Program

EPA's Landfill Methane Outreach Program provides resources for the promotion of landfill gas to energy projects.