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

Some of the top renewable gas options currently available in Idaho include:

1. Biogas: Produced from organic waste materials, such as animal manure and food waste, through anaerobic digestion.

2. Biomethane: A renewable and environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional natural gas, produced from biogas through purification processes.

3. Landfill gas: Produced from the decomposition of organic waste in landfills.

4. RNG (Renewable Natural Gas): A form of biomethane that is upgraded to meet pipeline quality standards for use as a transportation fuel or for injection into the natural gas grid.

5. Ethanol: Produced from crops such as corn, wheat, and barley through fermentation and distillation processes.

6. Biodiesel: Made from vegetable oils, animal fats, or recycled cooking oil through a chemical process called transesterification.

7. Hydroelectric power: Generated by the movement of water through dams or turbines.

8. Solar power: Harvested from the sun’s energy through photovoltaic panels or solar thermal systems.

9. Wind power: Captured using turbines that convert the wind’s kinetic energy into electricity.

10. Geothermal energy: Utilized by tapping into underground sources of heat to generate electricity or directly provide heating and cooling for buildings.

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

According to the American Biogas Council’s 2020 State of the Biogas Industry Report, Idaho ranks among the top ten states in terms of installed renewable gas capacity. As of 2020, Idaho has a total installed capacity of 8.7 MW, putting it in 6th place behind California, Wisconsin, New York, Pennsylvania and Texas. However, compared to other states that have implemented renewable gas policies and incentives, such as California and Massachusetts, Idaho lags behind in terms of its adoption and utilization of renewable gas. This could be due to a variety of factors such as limited policy support and incentives, lower demand for renewable gas in the state, and lower availability of feedstocks (organic waste) for biogas production.

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

Idaho has implemented several policies and initiatives to promote renewable gas adoption, including:

1. Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS): Idaho’s RPS requires utilities to gradually increase the amount of renewable energy they use each year, with a goal of reaching 100% clean electricity by 2045. This includes a requirement for utilities to obtain at least 5% of their electricity from eligible renewable energy resources, which can include renewable gas.

2. Renewable Gas Systems Sales Tax Exemption: In 2017, Idaho enacted a tax exemption for equipment used to convert organic waste into biogas or renewable natural gas. This encourages the development of biogas and renewable natural gas projects in the state.

3. Net Metering: Idaho has a net metering policy that allows individuals and businesses with solar panels or other renewable energy systems to receive credit for excess electricity they generate and feed back into the grid. This enables customers to offset their own electricity usage and potentially sell excess renewable gas they produce.

4. Clean Energy Loans: The Clean Energy Loan Program provides low-interest loans for businesses and government entities that are implementing renewable energy projects, including biogas and anaerobic digestion systems.

5. Biomethane Fuel Grants: The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality offers grants for entities that install facilities to capture methane from organic waste streams and convert it into biomethane for transportation fuel.

6. Education and Outreach Programs: The Idaho Governor’s Office of Energy Resources supports education and outreach programs to increase awareness about renewable gas technologies and opportunities in the state.

7. Biogas Research Initiative: In 2020, Idaho announced a new initiative partnering with Washington State University to research methods for converting agricultural waste into biogas as part of its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture.

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

As of now, consumers in Idaho do not have the option to choose to receive renewable gas instead of traditional natural gas. This is because renewable gas is still a relatively new and limited energy source in the state and infrastructure and delivery systems are not yet in place to provide it as a viable alternative to traditional natural gas. However, some utility companies in Idaho are exploring the use of renewable gas and offering customers the option to purchase voluntary offsets or participate in community solar programs.

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

The potential for renewable hydrogen production in Idaho is relatively high, due to the state’s abundant natural resources and supportive policies for renewable energy.

1. Renewable energy resources: Idaho has significant potential for renewable energy, especially in terms of hydropower and wind power. The state ranks 7th in the nation for its installed hydropower capacity and has strong wind resources in certain regions, such as the Snake River Plain. Both of these resources could be harnessed to produce renewable hydrogen through electrolysis.

2. Supportive policies: Idaho also has policies in place that support renewable energy development, including a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) requiring utilities to source a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources. This can provide incentives for companies to invest in renewable hydrogen production facilities.

3. Existing infrastructure: The state already has existing infrastructure that could potentially be repurposed for hydrogen production. For example, there are currently over 80 natural gas pipelines running through Idaho that could be used to transport and distribute hydrogen.

4. Demand for clean fuels: There is an increasing demand for clean fuels, especially in industries like transportation where hydrogen fuel cells can provide emissions-free alternatives to traditional combustion engines. This growing demand could drive investment in renewable hydrogen production facilities in Idaho.

Overall, while there are currently no large-scale renewable hydrogen production projects in the state, the combination of natural resources, policy support, and existing infrastructure make Idaho a promising location for future development of this technology.

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

There has been some investment in biogas production facilities in Idaho. In 2017, Idaho-based dairy company Glanbia Foods invested $30 million to build a biogas facility at their cheese production plant in Gooding County. This facility collects manure from the dairy cows and converts it into biomethane, which is injected into a natural gas pipeline for use as a renewable energy source.

In addition, an anaerobic digester project was completed in 2018 by Clear Horizons LLC and AgEnergy Systems LLC. This facility, located on a dairy farm near Twin Falls, converts cattle manure and compostable materials into biogas that is used to generate electricity for the local utility grid.

There have also been smaller-scale biogas projects established by individual farmers or companies in Idaho. However, compared to other states with more supportive policies and incentives for renewable energy production, the investment in biogas production facilities has been relatively limited in Idaho.

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

Yes, there are tax incentives and rebates available for using renewable gas in Idaho. Some examples include the federal Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program, which provides a Renewable Identification Number (RIN) credit for each gallon of renewable gas produced; the Renewable Energy Property Tax Exemption, which exempts qualifying renewable energy systems from property taxes; and potential state-level tax credits and rebates for renewable energy production or use. Additionally, some utilities may offer incentives or financial assistance programs for customers who use renewable gas. It is recommended to check with local and state agencies, as well as utility companies, for specific incentives and rebates available in your area.

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

The development of landfill gas projects in Idaho is being encouraged through various policies and incentives including:

1. State Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS): Idaho has a voluntary RPS goal for utilities to get 100% of their electricity from renewable sources by 2045. This provides an incentive for utilities to invest in renewable energy projects such as landfill gas.

2. Tax Credits: Idaho offers tax credits for the development of energy production facilities, including landfill gas projects.

3. Net Metering: Landfill gas projects can participate in the state’s net metering program, which allows them to sell excess electricity back to the grid at retail rates.

4. Grants and Loans: The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) offers grants and loans for the development of landfill gas collection systems and other renewable energy projects.

5. Renewable Energy Sales Agreements: The DEQ also facilitates renewable energy sales agreements between landfills and utility companies, helping to offset project costs and encourage investment.

6. Education and Outreach: The DEQ provides education and outreach programs to promote the benefits of landfill gas projects and help landfills navigate the regulatory process.

7. Collaborative Partnerships: The DEQ works with local governments, utilities, and private developers to identify potential sites for landfill gas projects and facilitate collaboration between stakeholders.

8. Clean Energy Vision: Idaho has set a goal of achieving 100% clean electricity by 2045 through its Clean Energy Vision, which includes promoting the development of renewable energy projects like landfill gas.

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

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

1. Promoting Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) production and use: Idaho has set a goal of reaching 15% RNG in its gas supply by 2025. The state is working with utility companies, biogas producers, and other stakeholders to increase the production and use of RNG.

2. Investing in biogas infrastructure: Idaho has provided funding for the development of biogas infrastructure, such as anaerobic digesters, to collect and process organic waste from farms, landfills, and wastewater treatment plants.

3. Encouraging production of hydrogen fuel: Idaho is promoting the production of renewable hydrogen fuel from sources like wind or solar energy. This can be used to power fuel-cell vehicles or be added to natural gas pipelines.

4. Offering incentives for renewable energy projects: The state offers various financial incentives, loans, grants, tax credits, and rebates to businesses and individuals that install renewable energy systems or produce renewable gases.

5. Collaborating with neighboring states: Idaho is working with neighboring states on regional initiatives to promote the development and use of renewable gases to reduce overall carbon emissions.

6. Developing policies and regulations: Idaho has implemented regulations that require utilities to procure a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources. The state is also developing policies to facilitate the integration of renewables into the grid.

By implementing these measures, Idaho aims to decrease its reliance on fossil fuels and transition towards a cleaner energy future powered by renewable gases.

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

Yes, biomass resources are being utilized for renewable gas production in Idaho. Some examples include:

1. Anaerobic digesters: These are used to break down organic waste (such as manure and food scraps) and produce biogas, which can be upgraded to renewable natural gas (RNG).

2. Landfills: Methane produced by decaying waste in landfills can be captured and upgraded to RNG.

3. Biomass power plants: Biomass materials such as wood chips and agricultural waste can be burned to generate heat or electricity, which can then be used to produce RNG.

4. Biorefineries: These facilities use a variety of biomass feedstocks, including crops and forest residues, to produce biofuels such as ethanol or biodiesel. The byproducts of these processes can also be used to produce RNG.

In addition, Idaho has several policies in place to support the development of renewable gas production from biomass resources, including a Renewable Gas Standard that requires utilities to source a certain percentage of their natural gas from renewable sources.

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

At the moment, Idaho does not have specific plans for expanding its use of renewable gases in transportation. However, the state has been working towards promoting renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions through various initiatives and policies.

One key initiative is the Idaho Energy Plan, which was released in 2019 by Governor Brad Little. This plan includes a goal to increase the production and use of alternative fuels, including natural gas and renewable natural gas (RNG), in transportation. The plan also includes efforts to support development of biofuels and electric vehicle infrastructure.

In addition, the state has implemented a Renewable Gas Standard, which requires utilities to source a certain percentage of their natural gas from renewable sources by 2025. This will likely lead to an increase in RNG production and use for transportation in the coming years.

Idaho is also part of the Western States Pact, a collaboration of western U.S. states committed to enacting similar energy policies, including promoting renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in transportation.

Furthermore, the state is currently exploring options for implementing advanced clean fuel programs that would incentivize the use of low-carbon fuels such as RNG and reduce emissions from transportation.

Overall, while there are currently no specific plans for expanding use of renewable gases in transportation, Idaho is taking steps towards promoting cleaner forms of energy in all sectors, including transportation.

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

Yes, there have been several successful examples of community-scale renewable gas projects in Idaho:

1. Boise Renewable Energy Project: In 2018, the city of Boise launched its Renewable Energy Project, which uses anaerobic digestion to convert organic waste from local restaurants and food businesses into renewable natural gas (RNG). The RNG is then used to fuel a portion of the city’s fleet of garbage trucks and other municipal vehicles.

2. Treasure Valley Clean Cities Natural Gas Conversion Initiative: The Treasure Valley Clean Cities coalition worked with local fleets and refueling stations to install compressed natural gas (CNG) infrastructure and convert vehicles to run on CNG. This project helped reduce emissions and promote the use of renewable natural gas as a transportation fuel.

3. Southern Oregon Alternative Fuels Demonstration Project: This project, led by Avista Utilities in collaboration with Clean Fuels Associates, aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of producing RNG from dairy cow manure. The project successfully produced RNG that was injected into a local natural gas pipeline for use as a transportation fuel.

4. Payette Landfill Gas-to-Energy Project: This project, developed by Republic Services, captures methane gas generated from decomposing waste at the Payette landfill and converts it into electricity for about 2,500 homes in the surrounding area.

Overall, these projects have demonstrated the potential for renewable gas production at a community scale in Idaho and can serve as models for future initiatives.

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

Yes, it is possible for households and businesses to generate their own renewable gas in Idaho through various methods such as anaerobic digestion of organic waste, biomass gasification, and production of biogas from landfills. However, due to high upfront costs and technical expertise needed for these processes, the widespread adoption of renewable gas is currently limited.

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

There is not currently an established market for buying and selling renewable gas credits in Idaho. However, some renewable gas projects may participate in voluntary programs or receive incentives from the state to generate marketable credits. In addition, there are several organizations and platforms that facilitate the trading of renewable energy credits on a national level, which could potentially include credits from Idaho-based projects.

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

It is difficult to provide a direct comparison between traditional natural gas and 100% renewable gas options in Idaho, as the cost can vary depending on factors such as availability and transportation costs. However, generally speaking, renewable gases tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to traditional natural gas. This is because renewable gas technologies are still developing and the production process can be more expensive.

In terms of ongoing cost, it also depends on the specific renewable gas option being used. Some options may require ongoing maintenance costs, while others may have lower operating costs due to the use of abundant renewable resources.

Overall, it is important to consider the long-term benefits of using renewable gas, such as reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy sources. Additionally, government incentives and subsidies may also help offset some of the initial costs of transitioning to 100% renewable gas options.

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

Yes, there are efforts being made by utilities to transition towards more renewable gases in their supply mix. This is in line with the global push towards decarbonization and the transition to cleaner energy sources.

One example of this is the increasing use of biomethane, a renewable gas produced from organic waste or agricultural by-products. Some utilities are investing in biomethane production facilities or partnering with third-party producers to incorporate this renewable gas into their natural gas supply mix.

Utilities are also exploring the use of hydrogen as a renewable gas. Hydrogen can be produced through electrolysis using renewable electricity, making it a zero-emission fuel source. Some utilities are piloting projects to blend hydrogen into their existing natural gas distribution system, while others are exploring the potential for using hydrogen in power generation.

The use of biogas, which is produced through anaerobic digestion of organic matter, is also being explored by utilities as a potential source of renewable gas.

In addition to these efforts, many utilities have set ambitious goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the share of renewable energy in their supply mix. This includes promoting energy efficiency and implementing programs to incentivize customers to switch to cleaner energy sources such as solar or wind power.

Overall, there is increasing recognition among utilities that incorporating more renewable gases into their supply mix is crucial for meeting emission reduction targets and transitioning towards a more sustainable energy future.

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

The state government of California has set a goal to reach 100% clean electricity by 2045. This includes a target of producing 0.55 million tons of renewable gases per year by 2030 and increasing to 2.85 million tons per year by 2050. The state also has a goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the natural gas sector by 40% below 1990 levels by 2030.

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

Yes, there are concerns about potential methane emissions from increased use of biogas or landfill gas projects in Idaho. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential 28 times higher than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. If not properly managed and extracted, biogas and landfill gas can release large amounts of methane into the atmosphere.

Furthermore, as biogas and landfill gas projects involve the decomposition of organic material, there is also the risk of odors and air pollution from these facilities. This can have negative impacts on local communities living near these projects.

Proper monitoring and management techniques must be implemented to minimize methane emissions and address any potential impacts on surrounding communities. It is also important to consider the overall sustainability and environmental impact of these projects before increasing their use in Idaho.

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

Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, play a crucial role in ensuring grid reliability and price stability. In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the use of renewables as they provide numerous benefits compared to traditional fossil fuels.

Firstly, one of the main advantages of renewables is their ability to diversify the energy mix. This means that if one source experiences disruptions or downtime, other sources can continue to provide electricity. For example, if there is a shortage of solar power due to cloudy weather, wind power can pick up the slack and help maintain a stable flow of energy.

Moreover, renewable energy sources are distributed widely across geographical locations, reducing the risk of supply disruption from natural disasters or other events. This reduces the overall vulnerability of the grid and ensures that electricity supply remains reliable even during times of crisis.

Additionally, unlike fossil fuels which are subject to price volatility due to fluctuating global markets and geopolitical factors, renewable energy prices are relatively stable over time. This stability provides greater predictability for consumers and helps mitigate any potential spikes in electricity prices.

Furthermore, as the cost of renewable technologies continues to decrease and technological advancements improve their efficiency, they are becoming increasingly competitive with traditional fossil fuels in terms of cost-effectiveness. This not only benefits consumers by providing more affordable options but also creates market competition which further drives down prices.

In conclusion, renewables play a crucial role in maintaining grid reliability and price stability by diversifying the energy mix, reducing vulnerability to supply disruptions, providing stable pricing, and fostering market competition. As they continue to grow in popularity and become more cost-competitive with other sources, their role in ensuring a reliable and affordable electricity supply will only continue to increase.

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

Yes. Information on the current use of renewable gas in Idaho is available through various sources, including government agencies, utility companies, and industry reports. The Idaho Public Utilities Commission regularly publishes reports on the amount of renewable energy used in the state, which includes data on renewable gas. Additionally, some natural gas companies in Idaho offer programs that allow customers to purchase renewable gas or participate in community solar initiatives. Industry organizations such as the American Gas Association also publish annual reports on the use of renewable natural gas by state.