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MAYOR CARLISLE LAUNCHES FIRST WASTEWATER ENERGY PROJECT   (Fri., June 29, 2012) – Mayor Peter Carlisle today announced that the City has launched its first renewable wastewater energy project, which is expected to save more than $15 million in electricity costs over 15 years.   The project, at the Kailua Regional Wastewater Treatment Plant, will generate electricity using methane gas produced by an anaerobic digestion process and a solar photovoltaic system.   "This is a great example of an innovative green energy project that makes solid sense for our community," Carlisle said. "It will provide a new source of clean electricity that saves money."   The project will also include energy efficiency and conservation upgrades to the plant. The City estimates that the project will reduce the plant's electricity purchase needs by 5,500,000 kilowatt hours or 69 percent of the its current power consumption. Over 15 years, the estimated net savings will be $15.7 million.   A contract for the work was awarded to NORESCO, LLC, with an estimated cost of $12 million. Construction will begin this December and should be completed in mid-2014.   Additional renewable energy projects are planned for the Honouliuli and Sand Island wastewater treatment plants.   -30-   Contact:  Markus Owens, Public Communications Officer, ENV 768-3454