As the organic waste in landfills decay, it gives off methane gas, if this gas is released into the atmosphere; it is a potent greenhouse gas. Therefore collecting and using this landfill gas to generate electricity improves the environment and conserves fossil fuels.

Landfill gas has been providing electric power to consumers in other areas of the country for a number of years, now Kentucky's rural electric consumers have the power to make a difference when it comes to energy and the environment. Buying just one block of EnviroWatts has the same environmental value as taking a family car off the road three months.

Currently, renewable energy is being purchased from an out-of-state cooperative until three landfill gas plants—Bavarian Landfill in Walton, KY, Green Valley Landfill in Greenup County, and Laurel Ridge near London, KY are constructed. All three plants are scheduled for commercial operation by September 30, 2003.

By converting methane gas, which would otherwise be lost into the atmosphere, these three plants will produce approximately 3.2 to 4.0 megawatts of clean energy.

Each plant will produce enough energy to supply power to 2,500 to 3,000 home.