April 30, 2008

Washington, DC – Nevada Senator Harry Reid announced today that a $984,000 grant is being awarded to install equipment that will use methane gas from wastewater to generate electricity for both Sparks and Reno. Senator Reid secured funding for this project in the FY 2008 Consolidated Appropriations Act, and the Department of Energy awarded the grant.

"This is an important investment in renewable energy," Reid said. "Using clean, alternative energy sources will save money and keep Nevada's air pure and our state beautiful. This grant allows Sparks and Reno to set a standard for creative ways to reduce energy use, and it also helps us continue toward our goal of making Nevada the world leader in renewable energy."

The 1 megawatt co-generator will also reduce the wastewater treatment plant's electricity consumption by 20 to 30 percent. The plant currently spends roughly $2 million on electricity each year.