SWANA Asks Congress to Extend Energy Grants

The Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) is supporting the extension of the federal energy incentives as part of a group letter to Congress.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Section 1603 grant program, set to expire Dec. 31, provides funds for operations including waste to energy and landfill gas.

“To date, 26 six solid waste operations have taken advantage of this program, amounting to over $50 million in grants – a great investment in our industry,” said John Skinner, executive director and chief operating officer of SWANA.

Those operations that qualify for tax credits can receive grants worth up to 30 percent of the capital cost of the facility. Waste-to-Energy and landfill gas operations both qualify if owned by a tax payer, the association said.

The letter, signed by 764 businesses and organizations, encourages Congress to extend the program “as it will create jobs, spur economic growth and promote private sector development of energy technologies.”