Newton Falls mill receives grant for biomass energy project

NEWTON FALLS — National Grid has awarded a $750,000 grant to Newton Falls Fine Paper Co. for the mill's $27 million biomass energy project.

"We're applying for any and all grants and incentives we can possibly get," said Donald H. Schnackel, finance and administration vice president. "Every little bit helps."

Courtney A. Quatrino, National Grid spokeswoman, said the grant was part of the utility company's renewable energy and economic development grant program.

The grant given to Newton Fall Fine Paper is the very first one given," she said.

The project was a good fit for National Grid's grant program, especially in light of its partnership with Clarkson University, Potsdam, said Patrick J. Kelly, St. Lawrence County Industrial Development Agency deputy chief executive officer. The IDA's local development corporation applied for the grant on the mill's behalf.

"It's meant to promote the utilization of natural resources, manufacturing, research and development at the university level, and here we have a facility in the Adirondacks that's close to Clarkson, that's looking to develop and increase its renewable energy consumption with all of the related benefits to the bottom line, the environment and employment at the mill," Mr. Kelly said.

He said Clarkson and the mill could collaborate on technology transfer, efficiency, fuel source development and waste stream remediation.

"It's really a win-win for everyone," Mr. Kelly said. "You've got renewable energy, the implementation of technology in collaboration with a research institution that will have a positive regional economic development benefit."

Switching its energy source from fuel oil to dried wood chips could save the mill $2.5 million a year and greatly reduce sulfur emissions, Mr. Schnackel has said. The company plans eventually to use the biomass boiler to power a 10-megawatt generator. Company officials have said the two projects could result in 15 new jobs at the plant and 80 spinoff jobs in the forestry industry.

Mr. Schnackel said the mill is still securing financing for the project, but officials hope to start construction before the end of the year.