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October 17, 2001

Fuel cell project moves forward

By JOURNAL STAFF

SEATTLE -- The King County Council has approved a $2 million appropriation for design and fabrication work on a fuel cell demonstration project at the county's South Wastewater Treatment Plant in Renton.

The $2 million comes from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency which is participating in the $20 million project. Also participating is fuel cell manufacturer Fuel Cell Energy of Danbury, Conn.

When complete the 1.5 megawatt fuel cell, powered by the methane gas byproduct of water treatment, would help offset electricity costs, producing industrial quality heat as well. Combined, King County staff estimates a 20 percent reduction in electricity usage.

Currently at 50 percent design, the county has submitted permit applications and is preparing bid documents for advertisement next month. County funds dedicated to the project are anticipated to be $2.4 million. The federal government has already committed $8 million. However, requested additional federal grant money does not appear in the current budgets pending approval in Washington, D.C.




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