From Landfills to Pipelines: The Rise of U.S. Biogas

Ameresco, Republic Services, and Waga Energy drive steady U.S. biogas growth as clean energy demand rises

16 Oct 2025

America’s renewable gas industry is entering a phase of measured expansion, with new projects and partnerships transforming biogas from a niche energy source into a significant component of the clean energy mix. Waste and energy companies are broadening landfill and agricultural gas operations while securing long-term supply deals to meet rising national demand for renewable natural gas.

In July 2025, Ameresco and Republic Services opened a landfill gas facility in Illinois designed to convert millions of cubic feet of methane into usable clean fuel each year. By October, France-based Waga Energy launched a similar project in Iowa, linking renewable gas output to MidAmerican Energy’s existing pipeline network. These initiatives highlight growing coordination between established waste operators and clean energy developers.

Market analysts describe the sector’s progress as steady consolidation rather than a sudden surge. Data from consultancy Wood Mackenzie indicate that North American renewable gas capacity has almost doubled in the past five years, supported by larger firms acquiring or integrating smaller operations. “We’re seeing more structure and efficiency come into the market,” said a Wood Mackenzie energy analyst. “Growth now depends on building at scale and diversifying revenue streams.”

Policy developments have further strengthened the sector’s outlook. California’s updated Low Carbon Fuel Standard, which tightened carbon intensity targets earlier in 2025, has raised the market value of low-emission gas. Larger developers are well placed to meet these tougher requirements, while smaller players may find new opportunities through partnerships. “Scale gives us predictability,” an Ameresco spokesperson said. “It lets us plan and keep investing in projects that cut emissions and create economic value.”

Environmental groups have urged policymakers to balance enthusiasm for landfill gas with efforts to reduce waste generation. Nonetheless, industry observers say renewable gas is evolving from a series of pilot ventures into a more established part of the US energy landscape.

With continued capital inflows, supportive regulation, and improved technology, the biogas sector is expected to achieve gradual but durable growth, complementing the nation’s broader decarbonization goals.