Waste management
Casella Waste Systems, a provider of solid waste, recycling, and resource management services in the Eastern United States, and Waga Energy, a specialist in Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) production from landfill gas, officially celebrated the opening of a new RNG production facility at the Chemung County Landfill in Elmira, New York, during a ribbon-cutting ceremony held on May 14, 2026.
The new Renewable Natural Gas facility has been operational since January 2026 and marks a major milestone in Casella’s long-term sustainability and renewable energy strategy. The project converts landfill gas into pipeline-quality RNG, helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions while creating a renewable alternative to fossil fuels.
“We’re excited to celebrate the opening of this facility as it represents a key piece of our strategy coming to life,” said Ned Coletta. “Several years ago, we chose to partner with experienced RNG developers rather than directly invest in projects outside our core expertise. This facility demonstrates the value of collaboration between Chemung County, Waga Energy, and our landfill operations team to transform waste into a valuable renewable energy resource.”
The facility uses Waga Energy’s patented WAGABOX® technology to upgrade landfill gas into high-quality Renewable Natural Gas that is injected directly into the Valley Energy natural gas distribution network. The project is designed to produce up to 610,000 MMBtu of RNG annually, providing clean energy to the region and supporting the transition to more sustainable fuel sources.
According to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency standards, the facility is expected to prevent more than 47,000 tons of CO₂-equivalent emissions each year. During its first four months of operation, the project successfully completed its ramp-up phase and is projected to produce approximately 340,000 MMBtu in its first year — the energy equivalent of roughly 2.4 million gallons of diesel fuel.
“We are honoured to celebrate this inauguration alongside Casella, a company whose commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship is exemplary,” said Guénaël Prince. “The successful launch of the Chemung facility highlights the strength of our partnership and Casella’s leadership in renewable energy development. This project demonstrates how innovative collaboration can convert landfill waste into a valuable energy resource that benefits both local communities and the environment.”
Under the agreement, Waga Energy fully funded the construction of the facility and will own and operate the site for 20 years. Casella Waste Systems and Waga Energy will share revenue generated from Renewable Natural Gas sales throughout the partnership.
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