EPA unveils new grants to encourage methane energy solutions

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is soliciting proposals for projects that support the Methane to Markets Partnership. The partnership is an international initiative to reduce global methane emissions by promoting methane capture-and-use projects in four major sectors including agriculture (animal waste management), coal mining, landfills and oil and gas systems.

According to an EPA press release, the agency will distribute a total of $2.5 million through the program, divided between as many as 20 projects. Proposals can support the partnership broadly or focus on developing a specific market. EPA will accept proposals from international governments, as well as public or private non-profit organizations. The deadline for proposals is 4 p.m. EST, Dec. 4, 2006. For proposal criteria, contacts and other information, visit www.epa.gov/methanetomarkets/activities.htm. www.epa.gov/methanetomarkets/activities.htm.