Evensol Launches RNG Sites in North Carolina

When David Wentworth and Benjamin Benson launched Evensol, they were pioneering a future-focused enterprise. RNG production was then a distant concept, but their vision was clear. A decade later, Evensol boasts a decade of progress with two operational RNG facilities and further projects underway. The journey, as described by President and CEO David Wentworth, began in 2013: “Benny Benson and I founded an equity-driven development and acquisition venture. Our industry had larger entities, yet our model excelled through its straightforward approach. Many competitors were hampered by cumbersome development and operational systems, presenting us an opportunity to streamline and excel.

Initially centered on biogas and biomethane, our early focus was on landfill gas to electric conversions. After acquiring a modest portfolio through intricate negotiations with support from an Alaskan private equity partner and Caterpillar Financial, our direction was set.

Strategic Market Shifts and RNG Stability

As the renewable power landscape in the US shifted, facing decreasing prices and reluctance towards ‘green premiums’, traditional projects faced hurdles, propelling the RNG sector into a viable market. This shift led us to engage with lenders and investors keen on supporting RNG developments.

Our market analysis pointed to North Carolina where we secured gas rights for two landfills. These sites transitioned from potential electric to biogas projects. Over the past three years, these projects moved from conception to operation, and we’re continuously scouting for more opportunities.

Innovations in RNG Production and Community Impact

At both the Foothills and Upper Piedmont sites, which are operational under the management of Republic Services, we’ve innovated not only in production but also in community and environmental impact. These facilities, each processing up to 3000 cubic feet of LFG per minute and built at a cost of $50 million, reflect identical designs but serve different local distribution companies. The RNG produced is comparable to natural gas, containing mostly methane and minimal other compounds. The Foothills facility uniquely operates a virtual pipeline due to its production exceeding local pipeline capacities, necessitating RNG transport to a nearby injection station.

Each site is designed with a definitive operational lifespan, with both expected to contribute significant RNG volumes as long as the landfills remain active. Our strategic siting ensures a steady gas supply for a considerable period, with each facility projected to produce around 500,000 Dth annually.

Evensol, with a forward-looking approach, continues to seek new acquisitions and develop strategies aligned with regulatory and political frameworks. The last two administrations have been conducive to our operations, and we anticipate continued support over the next five years. Our commitment to acquiring and developing new projects remains unwavering as we look forward to future advancements in the RNG sector.

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