Denver to launch renewable natural gas facility

Landfills naturally produce landfill gas as organic waste breaks down. Currently at Denver’s municipal landfill, about a third of its landfill gas is captured and converted to electricity. The remaining landfill gas is “flared,” or burned off, in accordance with air permitting guidelines.

The new RNG facility will instead capture and refine almost all of the landfill gas at Denver municipal landfill, removing carbon dioxide and other impurities to produce pipeline-quality gas that is nearly chemically identical to fossil natural gas but with a significantly lower carbon footprint.

“WM is proud to help expand renewable energy in the Denver area and Colorado as part of our long-term sustainability strategy,” said David Brannon, area vice president, WM Four Corners. “This project can help provide a local, sustainable energy source for our local communities. We are grateful to state and local officials for their collaboration and commitment in making this project a success.”

“This is a bold example of how we can move aggressively toward clean, renewable energy, while also supporting innovation and economic growth for a cleaner, more vibrant Denver”

By reducing the need for flaring, the project is expected to help cut emissions of ozone precursors and other pollutants, therefore helping improve regional air quality.

This project is a key component of Denver’s broader climate strategy and a model for regional collaboration. By transforming waste into renewable energy, the RNG facility will help Denver and its neighbouring communities move toward cleaner air, reduced greenhouse gas emissions and a more sustainable energy future.

Construction is expected to begin in late 2026 with the facility projected to be operational in 2027.

The City and County of Denver owns the Denver Arapahoe Disposal Site (DADS) and has contracted with WM for landfill operations since 1990. Together, Denver and WM have invested in projects that ensure DADS is a leader in landfill sustainability efforts, including the adjacent community solar gardens, a mixed recycling facility and expanded composting and asphalt and concrete recycling.