JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – In 2018, the city of Jamestown directed New Phase Energy (NPE) to conduct a feasibility study and see if a project to capture methane gas from the wastewater treatment plant would be economical.

On Thursday, members with New Phase Energy returned to the Jamestown Public Works Committee with their findings.

Joe Regnery reports that flow from the Industrial Park produces plenty of methane gas that can be captured and converted into Renewable Natural Gas, which the city can then use to generate profit.

Currently, the city is just flaring off the natural gas.

As part of the study, Regnery reported several items the city would need to address before moving forward with the project. This includes replacing the valve on the emergency vent near the wastewater treatment plant, identify any other sources of air in the gas, replace the digester gas flow meter, and then collect data with temporary equipment.

Regardless if the city moves forward with the project, Regnery stressed the city would need to take care of the issues that were brought forth.

As part of the study, several options for funding the project including grants and loans was presented. Regnery informed the committee that it would be worthwhile to explore the project.

New Phase Energy CEO Jim Imbler stated that the city had a variety of things they could do and NPE would be willing to serve in any capacity the city would ask them to on the project.

Tim Eggeman stated the technology for the project if all needs are met is very straightforward.

In all, it’s estimated the capture project could generate upwards of $2 million a year. This would also be used to to fund the capture project including power and other variables.

The committee unanimously agreed to move forward with exploring the project.

City councilmember Pam Phillips was not in attendance.