Ryegate Associates has operated a 20 MW wood-fired power plant in East Ryegate, Vermont since 1992. They have implemented selective catalytic reduction technology that reduces NOx emissions by 50%. The facility operates at near 100% capacity reliably. It employs 21 people locally and produces 250,000 tons of wood chips annually while distributing over 4,000 tons of wood ash for agricultural use. Ryegate Associates qualifies for renewable energy certificates and has a long-term power purchase agreement to market the plant's electricity.
1. Biography of Ryegate Associates
Founded in 1992, Ryegate Associates has been a pioneering force in the local power
landscape, spearheading the operation of a state-of-the-art 20 MW wood-fired electrical power
(biomass) generation facility in the heart of East Ryegate. Our unwavering commitment to
environmental sustainability is vividly embodied by incorporating a cutting-edge Selective
Catalytic Reduction (SCR) emissions control system, a technology that effectively curbs the
plant's emissions.
The SCR device is a testament to human ingenuity, featuring a stack bypass mechanism that
skillfully channels combustion gases through an intricate network of 477 ceramic plates, each
measuring a substantial 2 feet by 2 feet. Within this labyrinth of leaves resides a titanium
catalyst akin to the catalytic converters found in automobiles. The outcome is remarkable, with
NOx emissions slashed from approximately 1.5 lbs/mmBTU to an impressive 0.75 lbs/mmBTU,
marking a monumental 50% reduction in emissions.
Operating as a baseload electrical generation plant, our facility maintains a remarkable track
record, consistently performing at or near 100% capacity. This unwavering performance ensures
our esteemed customers a reliable and uninterrupted power supply. The only exceptions to this
commitment are brief windows of scheduled maintenance, during which we meticulously
fine-tune the plant's performance to guarantee optimal operation.
We take immense pride in our enduring legacy of illuminating the local community. With our
state-of-the-art facility and unwavering dedication to environmental responsibility, we continue to
set the gold standard for sustainable power generation.
2. Within the Ryegate Associates Power Generation Facility, a dedicated and passionate team of
21 individuals proudly serves, with a significant portion of our staff hailing from the local
community. Among our esteemed team members is a regulatory forester with a vital role in
ensuring strict compliance with the Vermont Harvesting Regulations, a tangible demonstration of
our commitment to responsible forestry practices.
In our unwavering pursuit of sustainable energy solutions, we produce and deliver an
astonishing 250,000 tons of whole tree chips annually, substantially contributing to the
renewable energy sector. Furthermore, our annual distribution of over 4,000 tons of wood ash
finds invaluable applications in various recycling programs, including its transformation into
3. organic fertilizer for local farmers. This multifaceted approach not only aids in waste reduction
but also bolsters and supports the agricultural community.
Our relentless dedication to renewable energy is further underscored by our qualification for
Renewable Energy Certificates in the New Hampshire and Connecticut renewable energy
trading markets. This recognition cements our commitment to environmental stewardship and
the tireless promotion of clean energy sources.
To fortify the continued success of our operations, we've strategically forged a long-term power
purchase agreement with VEPP Inc. This strategic alliance empowers us to market the
electricity generated at our facility, enabling us to make significant contributions to the grid while
steadfastly maintaining operational stability and reliability.
At Ryegate Associates Power Generation Facility, our shared vision propels us toward a future
that thrives on sustainability. Through the unmatched expertise of our professional team,
unwavering adherence to regulations, and an unbreakable commitment to renewable energy,
we tirelessly endeavor to create a positive and lasting impact on the local community and the
environment.