bp expands renewable natural gas operations with new plant in Shawnee, Kansas

bp’s subsidiary, Archaea Energy, has officially launched its most substantial renewable natural gas (RNG) plant yet in Shawnee, Kansas, marking a significant advancement in the company’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Located near Kansas City and adjacent to a privately-owned landfill, this fully-owned facility stands out as a pioneering project in RNG production.

Transforming Landfill Gas into Clean Energy

The Shawnee RNG plant leverages the innovative Archaea Modular Design (AMD) to capture landfill gas—a greenhouse gas byproduct from waste decomposition—and convert it into renewable natural gas. This plant processes 9,600 standard cubic feet of landfill gas per minute, which is sufficient to supply heat to approximately 38,000 homes each year. This capability represents a threefold increase from Archaea’s initial AMD plant in Medora, Indiana, emphasizing the scalability and effectiveness of this technology.

A Strategic Move Towards Emission Reduction

Starlee Sykes, CEO of Archaea Energy, commented on the milestone, “This represents another significant milestone for Archaea. A plant of this size can have a positive impact in capturing emissions from a landfill and providing our customers with lower carbon fuel. We are excited to be operating in Kansas – a state with an exceptional record in renewable energy.” The implementation of AMD allows for more rapid construction and scalability due to its standardized modular design, enhancing the efficiency and adaptability of RNG facilities.

Leading the Charge in RNG Production

Since acquiring Archaea Energy, bp has become the largest producer of RNG in the United States, with a noticeable 80% increase in global biogas supply volumes in 2023 compared to the previous year. This growth underscores the company’s strategic focus on expanding its renewable energy portfolio and solidifying its leadership in the green energy sector.