Proposed Legislation Promotes Solid Waste as Source of Renewable Energy

U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) today announced legislation that would expand the use of municipal solid waste as a source of clean energy. Brown unveiled the legislation, dubbed the “Rubbish to Renewables Act of 2009,” today while visiting a Solid Waste Authority of Central Ohio (SWACO) facility in Columbus.

According to a press release issued by Brown's office, the Rubbish to Renewables Act would create jobs and increase demand for clean energy technology. It would create a $250 million competitive grant program at the U.S. Department of Energy to support and expand the use of municipal solid waste as a clean energy source. Brown’s bill also would provide grants of up to $5 million that would fund landfill gas to energy and other projects. Grants would be awarded on their ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and create new jobs and economic activity.