Republic Waste Services, Inc. – Innovative Closure and Renewable Energy Integration CQA

San Antonio, Texas | 2009

The Challenge: Closing with Purpose - and Power

When the Tessman Road MSW Landfill reached final grades, Republic Waste Services saw an opportunity to do more than meet closure regulations—they envisioned a renewable energy park. Instead of a traditional vegetative cap, they pursued an Exposed Geomembrane Solar Cap (EGSC)—a first-of-its-kind system capable of generating power directly from the closure surface. The goal: reduce maintenance, preserve airspace, and create lasting environmental value.

Our Role: Long-Term Support Across Landfill, Recycling, and Compost Operations

Selected by HDR, Inc. as the CQA provider, ACC supported the full installation of the EGSC system. We delivered independent construction oversight to confirm proper grading, bedding, and geomembrane placement. This provided a secure and functional foundation for solar energy generation. Key responsibilities included:

• Verifying installation of 60-mil reinforced thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) geomembrane

• Overseeing integration of 1,050 flexible laminate solar panels onto the liner surface

• Monitoring installation over a 5.6-acre south slope (Phase 3)

• Coordinating QA procedures for a unique solar + closure system

What We Delivered: A Renewable Energy Cap with Lasting Value

The final EGSC system ties directly into the site’s landfill-gas-to-energy network, generating approximately 120 kW of solar power. In addition to energy production, the system delivers long-term closure benefits:

• Reduced cap maintenance compared to vegetative covers

• Improved stormwater control through sheet flow into perimeter channels

• Extended performance beyond the post-closure care period

• No soil cover required—maximizing remaining landfill capacity

The Result: A First in the Nation - and a Model for the Future

With ACC’s quality assurance expertise, the Tessman Road EGSC project became a national landmark in landfill closure innovation. The system reduced emissions, generated revenue, and redefined how post-closure land can support sustainability goals. Today, it stands as a model for other municipalities and landfill owners considering energy-forward solutions.