- Montante Solar partners with Castillo Engineering to design two landfill solar projects in Niagara, New York, generating 13 MW of renewable energy.
- The projects utilise fixed-tilt ballast-mounted structures, optimising site development and protecting landfill integrity.
- These installations support New York’s goal of 70% renewable electricity by 2030 and contribute to the state’s leadership in community solar capacity.
Montante Solar partners with Castillo Engineering to design two landfill solar projects in Niagara, New York, generating 13 MW of electricity. Led by Calibrant Energy, the projects repurpose closed landfills for clean energy production, with expected commissioning by early 2025.
The projects utilise fixed-tilt ballast-mounted structures, a technology that fits the sensitive soil conditions of landfills. This mounting system prevents disruption to the landfill capping systems. Castillo Engineering applies its civil, electrical, and structural engineering expertise to optimise site development while safeguarding the integrity of the landfills.
Landfill solar projects are proliferating in the U.S., with an 80% increase over the past five years. States like New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Jersey lead the nation in landfill solar capacity, accounting for over 70% of the total. The U.S. currently holds an estimated 2.4 GW of installed landfill solar capacity.
Developers see significant growth potential, with around 10,000 closed landfills nationwide. These sites provide valuable opportunities to expand renewable energy production without needing new land. Landfill solar projects also address rising energy demand, turning unused spaces into clean energy sources.
The new Niagara facilities will supply power directly to the grid, supporting local energy needs. These projects strengthen New York’s leadership in community solar capacity, boosting the state’s renewable energy output.
New York aims to reach 70% renewable electricity by 2030 and transition to a fully zero-emission grid by 2040. The Niagara landfill solar projects align with these ambitious goals and play a vital role in achieving the state’s energy targets.
Montante Solar collaborates with Castillo Engineering due to the need for specialised knowledge in landfill solar projects. Castillo Engineering’s multidisciplinary team ensures the projects meet high design, safety, and efficiency standards. This partnership highlights the growing importance of expert engineering firms in delivering successful solar installations.
Landfill solar projects offer a unique solution by utilising closed landfills that would remain dormant. As states continue to push for renewable energy, these sites provide a practical way to expand solar capacity without affecting other land uses. The Niagara landfill solar projects showcase the potential to transform closed sites into sustainable energy sources.
In summary, Montante Solar’s collaboration with Castillo Engineering significantly advances landfill solar projects. The 13 MW Niagara installations contribute to New York’s renewable energy goals while repurposing closed landfills for clean energy. As landfill solar projects grow, developers will likely continue utilising closed sites across the U.S. for renewable energy expansion.