Microturbines are nothing new to the Albert Lea (Minn.) Waste-water Treatment Facility on the banks of the Shell Rock River.
With more than seven years of experience using four digester-gas-fueled microturbines for cogeneration (combined heat and power), plant superintendent Rick Ashling says the equipment was a good investment and continues to provide savings now that ownership of the units has reverted to the city.
“Our utility, Alliant Energy, approached us because they were looking for renewable energy credits,” says Ashling. “They would own the turbines, do the installation, and operate and maintain them for five years.”
Funding assistance
The original plan was to install
