1. What are the top renewable gas options currently available in Indiana?

The top renewable gas options in Indiana include:

1. Bioenergy: Bioenergy is the most widely available and used renewable gas in Indiana. It involves converting biomass, such as agricultural waste, into biogas through processes like anaerobic digestion or thermal conversion.

2. Landfill Gas: Landfills emit methane gas, which can be captured and used as a renewable energy source. In Indiana, there are several projects that collect and use landfill gas for electricity generation.

3. Wastewater Treatment Plants: Many wastewater treatment plants in Indiana produce biogas through the treatment process, which can be upgraded and used as a renewable natural gas (RNG) alternative.

4. Renewable Natural Gas (RNG): RNG is produced from animal manure, food waste, or crop residues through anaerobic digestion or thermal conversion processes. It has similar properties to traditional natural gas and can be injected into the existing natural gas pipeline system.

5. Solar Energy: Indiana has a growing number of solar installations, with over 300 megawatts installed as of early 2021. In addition to being used for electricity generation, solar energy can also be harnessed for power-to-gas systems that convert excess renewable electricity into hydrogen or synthetic methane.

6. Wind Energy: The state of Indiana has seen significant growth in wind energy production in recent years, with over 2 gigawatts of installed capacity as of early 2021.

7. Geothermal Energy: While not as widely adopted as other forms of renewable energy in Indiana, geothermal energy systems that tap into the earth’s heat can provide heating and cooling for buildings while also producing electricity.

8.Synthetic Natural Gas (SNG): SNG is produced by converting carbon-based feedstocks (such as coal or biomass) using chemical processes like methanation or Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. This technology is currently being developed by several companies in Indiana and could provide a renewable gas option for the state in the future.

2. How does Indiana compare to other states in terms of utilizing renewable gas?

Indiana ranks 12th out of all 50 states in terms of renewable gas production, with California, Texas, and Pennsylvania being the top three producers. However, when it comes to utilizing renewable gas as a source of energy, Indiana lags behind many other states. Currently, Indiana relies heavily on fossil fuels for its energy needs and has not set significant goals or policies to increase the use of renewable gas in its energy mix. This is likely due to the state’s strong ties to the coal industry and political resistance to implementing renewable energy policies.

3. What policies or initiatives has Indiana implemented to promote renewable gas adoption?

Indiana has implemented several policies and initiatives to promote renewable gas adoption, including:
1. Indiana Renewable Energy Standard: This policy mandates that electric utilities in Indiana must obtain at least 10% of their electricity from renewable resources, including renewable gas, by 2025.
2. Tax Incentives: Indiana offers tax incentives for the production and use of renewable fuels, including renewable gas. For example, the Alternative Fuel Tax Credit provides a credit of $0.24 per gasoline gallon equivalent (GGE) of compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), and other alternative fuels sold for use in vehicles.
3. Renewable Natural Gas Production Incentive: The state offers financial assistance to biogas producers through the Renewable Natural Gas Production Incentive program, which provides funding for project development and feasibility studies.
4. Net Metering: Indiana’s net metering policy allows renewable energy system owners to sell excess energy generated back to their utility company at retail rates.
5. Bioenergy Research Grants: The state awards grants for research projects related to biofuels and bioenergy, which may include projects related to renewable gas production.
6. Public-Private Partnerships: Indiana has partnered with private companies and organizations such as the American Biogas Council to support the development of biogas infrastructure in the state.
7. Education and Outreach Programs: There are various education and outreach programs in Indiana focused on promoting renewable energy, including events such as the annual Midwest Clean Energy Expo and workshops hosted by organizations like the Indiana Office of Energy Development.
8. Renewable Gas Facilities Permitting Assistance Program: This program helps streamline the permitting process for facilities that produce or use renewable gases by providing technical assistance and guidance.
9. Green Fleet Program: The Green Fleet Program promotes the use of alternative fuels, including renewable gases, in state government vehicle fleets by offering grants for purchases of alternative fuel vehicles and infrastructure.
10. Renewable Gas Collaborative: The Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission established the Renewable Gas Collaborative to facilitate collaboration between utilities, state agencies, and other stakeholders to promote the use of renewable gases in Indiana.

4. Can consumers in Indiana choose to receive renewable gas instead of traditional natural gas?

Yes, some natural gas utility companies in Indiana offer renewable gas options for consumers to choose from. However, availability and pricing may vary depending on the location and service provider. Consumers can contact their local utility company to inquire about their renewable gas offerings and costs.

5. What is the potential for renewable hydrogen production in Indiana?

Indiana has significant potential for renewable hydrogen production thanks to the state’s abundant agricultural and industrial resources, as well as its growing clean energy industry.

1. Wind Resources: Indiana ranks in the top 15 states for wind energy potential, with an estimated 2,700 MW of onshore wind capacity currently available and more potential for growth. Wind power can be used to generate renewable electricity that could then be used to produce hydrogen through electrolysis.

2. Solar Resources: Indiana has good solar resources, receiving an average of 4-5 kWh/m2 per day. The state also has a rapidly growing solar industry, with more than 3,000 solar jobs in 2019. Solar power can be used to produce renewable electricity for hydrogen production through electrolysis or directly through photovoltaic cells.

3. Biomass Resources: Indiana is a leading producer of corn and soybeans, which can be used as feedstocks for biomass gasification to produce hydrogen. The state also has a significant number of animal farms, providing additional potential for biomethane production through anaerobic digestion.

4. Geothermal Resources: Indiana has moderate geothermal resources that can be utilized for power generation or for direct heat applications in industries such as agriculture and manufacturing.

Overall, it is estimated that Indiana could produce over 600 million kg of hydrogen per year from renewable sources, according to a report by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL). This is equivalent to about 25% of the total hydrogen demand in the state.

Furthermore, Indiana’s central location and existing infrastructure make it well-suited for transportation and distribution of renewable hydrogen to neighboring states with high demand such as Illinois and Ohio.

In addition to the abundance of renewable resources, Indiana also has several ongoing initiatives promoting the development and use of renewable hydrogen. For example, the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) awarded $300 million to Purdue University and other institutions for research on advanced renewable energy technologies, including hydrogen production.

Overall, Indiana is well-positioned to become a leader in renewable hydrogen production, and has the potential to significantly contribute to the growing clean energy economy.

6. Has there been any investment in biogas production facilities in Indiana?

Yes, there has been investment in biogas production facilities in Indiana. Some examples include:

1. Fair Oaks Farms: This dairy farm located in northwest Indiana has invested $15 million in a anaerobic digestion system that converts cow manure and food waste into biogas to power its trucks and generate electricity for the farm and local community.

2. Kinetrex Energy: This Indianapolis-based company has invested over $100 million in building two landfill gas-to-RNG (Renewable Natural Gas) plants in central Indiana. These facilities use biogas from landfills to produce clean transportation fuel.

3. EnerG-I: This company has built an anaerobic digestion facility in Tipton, Indiana that processes organic waste from businesses, restaurants, and farms to produce biogas for electricity generation.

4. Heritage Clean Energy: This renewable energy development company is investing over $200 million in four anaerobic digestion facilities across Indiana, which will convert various types of agricultural waste into biogas for electricity production.

5. Harvest Energy Solutions: This renewable energy developer has built a community digester system at Homestead Dairy in Plymouth, Indiana that turns cow manure into biogas to power the dairy’s operations.

Overall, there has been significant investment in biogas production facilities in Indiana as part of the state’s efforts to increase renewable energy production and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

7. Are there any tax incentives or rebates available for using renewable gas in Indiana?

At the state level, Indiana does not currently offer any tax incentives or rebates specifically for using renewable gas. However, some utilities in Indiana may offer incentives or rebates for using renewable energy sources, including natural gas. It is recommended to check with your local utility company for any available programs.

At the federal level, there are currently no tax incentives or rebates specific to renewable gas. However, there are federal tax credits available for certain types of renewable energy projects, such as the Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit and the Investment Tax Credit. These credits may indirectly benefit the production of renewable gas.

Additionally, businesses that produce and sell renewable natural gas may be eligible for a Federal Excise Tax Credit of $0.50 per gallon produced and sold.

It is recommended to consult with a tax professional or reach out to your state and federal representatives for more information on potential incentives for using renewable gas.

8. How is the development of landfill gas projects being encouraged in Indiana?

The development of landfill gas projects in Indiana is being encouraged through a combination of regulations, incentives and partnership programs.

1. Regulatory Requirements: The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has implemented regulations for solid waste management facilities that require landfills to monitor and report their gas emissions. This incentivizes the implementation of landfill gas projects as a way to reduce these emissions.

2. Incentive Programs: The state government offers financial incentives such as tax credits and grants to support the development of renewable energy projects, including landfill gas projects. These incentives can help offset the costs of installing and operating landfill gas collection systems.

3. Partnership Programs: IDEM works with private companies and organizations to promote the development of landfill gas projects through partnership programs. For example, IDEM collaborates with the Landfill Methane Outreach Program (LMOP), a voluntary EPA program that encourages the use of landfill gas as an alternative energy source.

4. Energy Portfolio Standards: Indiana has established Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) which require utilities in the state to generate a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources, including landfill gas. This creates a demand for renewable energy sources such as landfill gas and encourages its development.

5. Public Awareness Campaigns: IDEM also conducts public outreach efforts to educate communities about the benefits of utilizing landfill gas as an energy source, encouraging more interest and investment in these types of projects.

6. Net Metering: Utilities in Indiana are required to offer net metering options, allowing customers who generate their own electricity from renewable sources, such as landfill gas, to be credited for excess energy fed back into the grid. This provides a financial incentive for investing in renewable energy systems.

7. Renewable Energy Standard Contracts: The statewide utility has established contracts with qualifying facilities that produce renewable electricity under long-term fixed-price agreements called “feed-in tariffs”. This provides stable returns on investments in renewable energy technology like methane capture systems.

8. Technical Assistance: IDEM provides technical support and assistance to landfills interested in developing a gas-to-energy project, including help with feasibility studies, financial analysis, and project development. This helps potential project developers overcome barriers and challenges in the development process and encourages more projects to move forward.

9. What steps is Indiana taking to reduce carbon emissions through the use of renewable gases?

Indiana is taking several steps to reduce carbon emissions through the use of renewable gases. These steps include:

1. Promoting the development of anaerobic digestion systems: Indiana has launched initiatives to boost the development of anaerobic digestion systems, which convert organic materials into biogas that can be used as renewable gas for power generation, transportation, and heating. This will help reduce methane emissions from landfills and agricultural waste while also providing an alternative to traditional fossil fuels.

2. Encouraging the production of renewable hydrogen: The state is promoting the production of renewable hydrogen for fuel cells and other clean energy applications. Hydrogen produced from renewable sources can be used in place of fossil fuels, thus helping to reduce carbon emissions.

3. Investing in biorefineries: Indiana is investing in biorefineries that produce biofuels, such as ethanol and biodiesel, which are cleaner alternatives to traditional gasoline and diesel fuels.

4. Supporting the use of biomass as a fuel source: Indiana has programs in place to support the use of biomass as a fuel source for electricity generation. Biomass plants burn organic material, such as wood chips or agricultural waste, to produce electricity with lower emissions than traditional fossil-fueled power plants.

5. Implementing renewable portfolio standards (RPS): Indiana currently does not have an RPS in place but there have been discussions about implementing one in order to incentivize utilities to increase their use of renewable energy sources, including renewable gases.

6. Encouraging the adoption of renewable natural gas (RNG): Indiana’s Energy Resource Recovery Development Commission is working on policies and programs to encourage the increased production and use of RNG. RNG is a form of natural gas derived from organic wastes, such as landfills and wastewater treatment plants.

7. Developing a statewide energy plan: The state is developing a comprehensive energy plan that includes strategies for reducing carbon emissions through increased use of renewables and energy efficiency.

Overall, Indiana is taking a multi-faceted approach to reduce carbon emissions through the use of renewable gases. By promoting the development and use of alternative energy sources, the state is working towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.

10. Are biomass resources being utilized for renewable gas production in Indiana?

Yes, biomass resources are being utilized for renewable gas production in Indiana. The state has several facilities that utilize biomass such as animal waste, plant materials, and food waste to produce biogas. This biogas is then used as a renewable source of energy, either by directly injecting it into the natural gas pipeline system or converting it into transportation fuels. Some examples of renewable gas projects utilizing biomass in Indiana include the Kinetrex Energy anaerobic digester facility and the South Plant Biogas Facility at the Indianapolis Wastewater Treatment Plant. This method of producing renewable gas helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and provide a sustainable energy source for the state.

11. What plans does Indiana have for expanding its use of renewable gases in transportation?

As of now, Indiana does not have any specific plans for expanding its use of renewable gases in transportation. However, the state government has shown interest in promoting the use of alternative fuels, including renewable gases, through various initiatives and policies.

1. Indiana Clean Transportation Program (ICTP): This program is aimed at reducing emissions from transportation by incentivizing the adoption of alternative fuel vehicles and infrastructure. Renewable gas projects are eligible for incentives under this program.

2. Alternative Fuel and Advanced Vehicle Technology Grant Program: This grant program provides funding for alternative fuel infrastructure and vehicles, including renewable gas projects.

3. Renewable Energy Development Incentive (REDI) Program: This program provides financial incentives to companies investing in renewable energy projects, including those related to renewable gases.

4. Partnership with universities: Indiana has partnered with Purdue University, Indiana University, and Notre Dame to research and develop new technologies for producing and utilizing renewable gases in transportation.

5. Events and workshops: The state organizes events and workshops to promote awareness about the benefits of using renewable gases in transportation. For example, the 2020 Indiana Governor’s Conference on Energy & Environment had a panel discussion on opportunities and challenges for increasing the use of biofuels and other renewable gases in transportation.

Overall, while there are no specific plans for expanding the use of renewable gases in transportation, Indiana seems to be actively promoting and supporting their use through various initiatives and collaborations. As technology advances and costs decrease, it is possible that more concrete plans may be developed to further expand their usage in the future.

12. Have there been any successful examples of community-scale renewable gas projects in Indiana?

One example of a successful community-scale renewable gas project in Indiana is the Fair Oaks Farms anaerobic digester. This facility, located in northwest Indiana, uses cow manure from the farm’s dairy cows to produce biogas through anaerobic digestion. The biogas is then upgraded into renewable natural gas and injected into the interstate pipeline system for use as transportation fuel.

Another example is the Tri-State Gasification Initiative, a proposed project that would convert coal and biomass into synthesis gas (syngas) and then use it to produce renewable methane for use as transportation fuel. This project has received funding from the Department of Energy and is currently undergoing feasibility studies.

Other smaller scale examples include a number of biogas projects on dairy farms throughout the state, producing renewable natural gas for onsite energy use or local distribution.

Overall, while there may not be many large-scale community projects focused specifically on renewable gas in Indiana, there are numerous individual projects utilizing different technologies and feedstocks across the state.

13. Is it possible for households and businesses to generate their own renewable gas in Indiana?

Yes, it is possible for households and businesses to generate their own renewable gas in Indiana through various methods such as biogas production from organic waste, anaerobic digestion of animal manure, and biomass gasification. However, there may be regulations and permits required for some of these processes.

14. Is there an established market for buying and selling renewable gas credits in Indiana?

Yes, there is an established market for buying and selling renewable gas credits in Indiana. The state has established a voluntary Renewable Natural Gas Portfolio Standard (RNGPS), which allows for the creation, purchase, transfer, and retirement of renewable natural gas credits. These credits can be bought and sold on a market platform called the Midwest Renewable Energy Tracking System (M-RETS). This trading platform also includes other states in the region such as Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, and Ohio. Additionally, some utilities in Indiana have their own renewable credit programs that allow for the trading of these credits.

15. How does the cost of using traditional natural gas compare to using 100% renewable gas options in Indiana?

The cost of using traditional natural gas in Indiana is typically less expensive compared to 100% renewable gas options. This is because traditional natural gas has been the primary source of energy in Indiana for many years and the infrastructure and production processes are well-established and optimized for cost efficiency.

On the other hand, 100% renewable gas options, such as biogas or hydrogen, may be more expensive due to the emerging technology and production methods required. However, as renewable energy sources become more common and costs continue to decline, it is possible that their prices may become more competitive with traditional natural gas. Additionally, some states offer incentives or subsidies for using renewable energy sources which can help offset the cost difference.

Overall, the cost of using 100% renewable gas options in Indiana may currently be higher than traditional natural gas, but could potentially become more comparable in the future.

16. Are there any efforts being made by utilities to transition towards more renewable gases in their supply mix?

Yes, many utilities are making efforts to transition towards more renewable gases in their supply mix. This includes using biogas and biomethane from sources such as landfills, wastewater treatment plants, and agricultural waste. Some utilities are also investing in technologies to produce hydrogen gas from renewable sources such as solar and wind energy. Additionally, policies such as renewable portfolio standards and carbon pricing are encouraging utilities to invest in renewable gases to meet their emissions reduction targets.

17. Does the state government have a targeted goal or timeline for increasing the use of renewable gases statewide?

It appears that the state government does not have a targeted goal or timeline specifically for increasing the use of renewable gases statewide. However, there are initiatives and policies in place to promote the development and use of renewable gases, such as the Renewable Fuel Standard program and the Low Carbon Fuel Standard. These programs have goals related to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the use of alternative fuels, which could indirectly contribute to an increase in renewable gases. Additionally, there may be individual cities or utilities within the state that have specific goals or plans for incorporating more renewable gases into their energy mix.

18. Are there concerns about potential methane emissions from increased use of biogas or landfill gas projects in Indiana?

There may be some concerns about potential methane emissions from increased use of biogas or landfill gas projects in Indiana. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change, and if not properly managed, biogas and landfill gas projects can release significant amounts of methane into the atmosphere.

One concern is that inadequate monitoring and maintenance of these projects could lead to leaks or releases of methane into the air. This could occur during the collection, storage, and transportation of biogas or landfill gas.

Another concern is the potential for odors and other air pollutants to be released from these projects. While technologies exist to minimize these emissions, they must be implemented correctly and consistently for effective odor control.

There are also concerns about the long-term sustainability of these projects. Biogas production depends on a steady supply of organic waste materials, which may not always be available. Landfill gas production also declines over time as landfills reach capacity. If these sources are relied upon for energy production without proper planning and alternatives in place, it could lead to reliance on non-renewable sources in the future.

Overall, while biogas and landfill gas projects can provide important renewable energy benefits, it is important that they are carefully planned, monitored, and maintained to ensure minimal environmental impacts.

19 .What role do renewables play, compared to other sources, when it comes to grid reliability and price stability?

Renewables, such as solar and wind power, play an increasingly important role in grid reliability and price stability. These sources of energy have several advantages over traditional forms of energy, such as coal and natural gas.

One advantage is that renewables are not subject to price fluctuations from external factors, such as fluctuating fuel costs or political instability in oil-producing countries. This leads to more stable and predictable electricity prices for consumers.

Additionally, the use of renewable energy can actually improve grid reliability. The increasing decentralization of the electricity grid through the use of renewable resources allows for a more distributed network that is less vulnerable to large-scale outages.

Another benefit of renewables is their flexibility in responding to changes in demand. Solar and wind power can be quickly ramped up or down to meet changing energy needs, allowing for better management of supply and demand and reducing the likelihood of blackouts caused by overload on the grid.

Overall, renewables are becoming vital components of modern electrical systems and are helping to ensure reliable and stable electricity supplies at affordable prices. As we continue to transition towards a cleaner energy system, it is expected that renewables will play an even larger role in ensuring grid reliability and price stability.

20. Does the public have access to information on how much renewable gas is currently being used in Indiana?

Yes, the public can access information on how much renewable gas is currently being used in Indiana through official reports and data released by government agencies. The Indiana Office of Energy Development publishes a yearly report on the state’s energy resources, which includes information on renewable gas production and usage. Additionally, the U.S. Energy Information Administration provides data on natural gas consumption in Indiana, which includes a breakdown of renewable natural gas usage.