SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): A new analysis report released by the American Biogas Council (ABC) indicates that U.S. landfills have achieved record energy capture and investments over the past five years.

There are currently 589 landfill biogas facilities operating in the United States. This is 18.5% higher than 2020, which is a considerable increase. There have been up to 90 new facilities put into service in the last five years. Consequently, landfill biogas capture capacity has increased by 148 billion cubic feet (Bcf) to around 521 Bcf annually. In 2024 alone, 56.3 Bcf of capacity was added.

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Since 2020, the amount of renewable natural gas (RNG) produced by American landfills has increased significantly. Out of the 92 landfill biogas plants that were established during this time, 77 have upgraded to RNG biogas. According to the ABC research report, as a result, RNG's proportion of landfill gas generation has more than doubled, rising from 19% to 40%. Additionally, direct heating or the production of power still require about 60% of the RNG.

According to the paper, Pennsylvania has the highest yearly landfill biogas capture capacity in the United States, at 56.6 Bcf. With 55 facilities, California is the state with the most operational facilities. According to the survey, Texas, Michigan, and Illinois are also among the leading contributors.