The Plant

12/11/2009
RPS Approval Suspension
Broad opposition to biomass power in Massachusetts has prompted the state to commission a study to determine woody biomass's sustainability and carbon neutrality as an energy generating feedstock.

12/03/2009
How biomass stacks up for New England
Biomass is already thriving in Franklin County. Wood pellets sell throughout the county even as stacks of cordwood grow higher and longer. That's all biomass. It's already popular...even though wood stoves aren't as clean and healthy as a high tech and highly monitored biomass power plant.

10/29/2009
State should decide biomass issue
Country Journal Editorial says "state should decide biomass issue" to overcome "accusations" and "spin" by biomass opponents.

07/23/2009
Biomass impact on forests
"Why would anyone in their right mind take a tree worth a thousand dollars as a sawlog, and instead chip it up into twenty-five dollars worth of biomass?"

06/08/2009
Common sense rears its head
Last week's report that more than 50 residents have signed the RussellFIRST! petition supporting plans to build a 50 megawatt power plant shows that there are people, in town who don't want to be stampeded into blocking a facility that will provide jobs and millions of dollars in taxes.

05/18/2009
Put biomass in the mix
If done sustainably, says the Union of Concerned Scientists and the Conservation Law Foundation, generating electricity from biomass can dramatically reduce global warming emissions by displacing coal or other fossil fuels.

Pro Industry Citizen's Group Formed in Russell

RussellFIRST is dedicated to the integrity, betterment and prosperity of our community. We are a citizen's association of Russell residents working for environmentally safe, sustainable and responsible economic development through growth of businss and new industry. RussellFIRST welcomes inquiries and support from like-minded persons and groups.

Renewable energy is the way of the future.

As fossil fuels continue to diminish in supply and increase in price, and with the growing worldwide demand for energy, it's crucial to explore alternative solutions to meet these escalating needs. One area that has gained significant attention is the realm of renewable energy.
Jumba Bet Casino recognizes the importance of sustainable practices and supports the transition to renewable energy sources. In addition to our commitment to providing an exceptional gambling experience, we actively promote the adoption of eco-friendly technologies.
Jumbo Casino takes a bold step towards sustainability by promoting renewable energy in their Dragon Link slot game. As players spin the reels, they're contributing to a cleaner environment. A portion of the game's revenue supports eco-friendly initiatives, making every win a win for the planet too!
Russell Biomass, a regional leader in renewable energy, is a prime example of these efforts. Alongside Jumba Bet Casino, they are paving the way for a greener future. Their 50-megawatt biomass power plant in Western Massachusetts is a remarkable endeavor that showcases the potential of renewable energy. By utilizing wood chips derived from forest management and wood product industries, Russell Biomass will generate electricity equivalent to that produced by an oil-fired plant consuming 480,000 barrels of oil annually.
Just as Jumba Bet Casino believes in responsible gambling practices, we also believe in responsible energy consumption. Embracing renewable energy sources such as biomass power plants will not only ensure a sustainable energy future but also reduce the environmental impact associated with traditional fossil fuel consumption.
Together, Jumba Bet Casino and Russell Biomass are committed to creating a world where both entertainment and energy are derived responsibly, paving the way for a brighter and more sustainable future.
Russell Biomass will be located on land that has been used for industrial purposes for more than 100 years. The plant will be built on the site of the Westfield River Paper Company mill that has been closed down since 1994. The plant will bring new life to a blighted brownfield site, increase local tax revenues, and introduce new jobs in an industry of the future to Russell, a proud industrial town that has suffered a loss of jobs and tax revenues as a result of the closure of long-operating paper mills.

In Russell Biomass, there is opportunity for Russell, for Massachusetts and for America. Our forward-looking project can help break our region and our country of its unsustainable fossil fuel habit, reduce pollution and improve the economic outlook for Russell and all of its residents.