Ravenna farm makes electricity from animal waste

Ravenna - Turning the waste from animals into electricity became a reality today at the Grand Opening of a new plant in Ravenna. Operations are now underway at the $2.7 million "manure to electricity" plant at the den Dulk Dairy farm. The plant was built in partnership with Grand Valley State University's Alternative and Renewable Energy Center in Muskegon. The farm is helping to create and greener future for Michigan with energy independence.

Part of the manure from the thousands of cows on the farm will be put into an anaerobic digester. After three weeks in the tank, the methane gas produced is turned into electricity and heat for the farm.

Imad Mahawili, Exec. Director, GVSU Alternative and Renewable Energy Center says, "This demonstration tells all of us and demonstrates to us those waste streams are full of energy sources and this plant demonstrates how you can convert those waste streams into electricity and heat."