Montgomery County plans to turn wastewater into power for eco-friendly bus system

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. (7News) — Montgomery County is one step closer to completing its goal of eliminating carbon emissions by 2035.

The county has partnered with WSSC Water to build a facility that will turn the area's wastewater (poop) into renewable natural gas (power). County Executive Marc Elrich said this new source of energy will help increase the efficiency and reliability of the county's ride-on-bus system.

“The Montgomery County government is always seeking innovative and sustainable practices in order to reduce carbon emissions,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “This agreement to turn methane gas into fuel for our buses is a win-win-win for our constituents, commuters and, most importantly, our environment. I appreciate the efforts of WSSC Water to work with us to create this agreement. Increasing the efficiency and reliability of our Ride-On bus system is critical toward the County’s goal of a 100% carbon emission reduction by 2035. This agreement, along with our new electric buses and microgrids are important improvements within our fleet of Ride-On vehicles.”

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Construction began in 2019 on the $271 million plant in Accokeek, Maryland and is expected to be completed by 2024. Then, WSSC Water will be able to transport biosolids from wastewater treatment plants to the facility to be converted to methane gas, which is eventually upgraded to renewable natural gas.

“This agreement to turn methane gas into fuel for our buses is a win-win-win for our constituents, commuters and, most importantly, our environment," Elrich said.

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