Waste to energy companies in California play a crucial role in converting discarded materials into renewable energy, addressing both waste management challenges and energy needs. These companies utilize advanced technologies to generate sustainable energy from organic waste, plastics, and agricultural byproducts, reducing landfill usage and greenhouse gas emissions. The industry is moving toward more innovative methods of waste conversion, including gasification and anaerobic digestion, which enhance environmental benefits while also providing economic opportunities in local communities. As the demand for clean energy grows, these solutions will become increasingly vital for fighting climate change and promoting circular economies.

The companies listed showcase various sizes and specialties, with headquarters ranging from San Francisco to Redding. Founded between 1937 and 2022, they specialize in technologies like biomass conversion, biogas production, and organic waste management. Many firms, including Power Knot and Greenleaf Power, focus on enhancing sustainability through innovative waste solutions while also creating economic value for local businesses.

Continue reading for insights on California's top waste to energy companies.

Top 22 Waste To Energy Companies in California

1. Bioforcetech Corporation

• Website: bioforcetech.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: South San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 70%, Italy 30%
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: bioforcetech-corporation

Bioforcetech Corporation, founded in 2012 and based in South San Francisco, California, is a private company that specializes in waste management technology. The firm focuses on transforming organic waste into renewable energy and biochar, catering to municipalities and organizations seeking sustainable waste solutions. Their innovative systems are designed to reduce waste volume by up to 90%, thereby minimizing environmental impact. Bioforcetech's technology promotes a circular economy by converting what is typically considered waste into valuable products. The company operates primarily in the United States and Italy, with a workforce that reflects a commitment to advancing waste management practices. Their BioDryer technology exemplifies their approach, efficiently drying biosolids and organic waste while using significantly less energy than traditional methods. Bioforcetech's mission is to protect nature and human health by delivering technologies that contribute to a zero waste future.

2. Sierra Energy

• Website: sierraenergy.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Davis, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series A, $33.0M, July 2019
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: sierra-energy

Sierra Energy, founded in 2004 and based in Davis, California, specializes in innovative waste management solutions through its proprietary FastOx gasification technology. This technology effectively converts a variety of waste types, including municipal solid waste, biomass, and even hazardous materials, into clean energy such as electricity and fuels. The company operates a commercial-scale demonstration facility at Fort Hunter Liggett in California, where it tests and showcases its gasification system. Sierra Energy's commitment to reducing environmental impact and enhancing energy security is evident in its partnerships with military and government clients. The company has attracted significant venture capital, securing $33 million in funding to further its mission of achieving a zero waste future. With a focus on practical applications and ongoing technological advancements, Sierra Energy is positioned as a relevant player in the waste to energy industry.

3. SCS Engineers

• Website: scsengineers.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Long Beach, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: July 2018
• Founded year: 1970
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: scs-engineers

SCS Engineers, founded in 1970 and headquartered in Long Beach, California, is an environmental consulting and construction firm that specializes in a wide array of services related to waste management and renewable energy. With over 1,100 employees, the company operates across the United States, providing solutions that help clients navigate complex environmental regulations. SCS Engineers is particularly noted for its work in biogas and landfill gas-to-energy projects, which are critical components of the waste to energy sector. Their services include landfill design, anaerobic digestion, and the development of renewable natural gas systems. The firm has a strong commitment to sustainability and has been involved in numerous projects aimed at reducing waste and promoting energy recovery from waste materials. Their expertise in solid and hazardous waste management, along with their innovative approaches to environmental challenges, underscores their relevance in the waste to energy industry.

4. Phoenix Energy

• Website: phoenixenergy.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Walnut Creek, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: phoenix-energy-1

Phoenix Energy, founded in 2011 and based in Walnut Creek, California, is an environmental services company dedicated to carbon removal and renewable energy generation. The company specializes in converting waste biomass into biochar and renewable energy, catering to utility companies, farmers, and municipalities. Their innovative approach involves building community-scale carbon removal plants that process waste at the source, effectively reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Phoenix Energy has a proven track record in carbon removal, avoidance, and sequestration, with ambitious plans to construct 50 carbon removal plants over the next decade. Their projects not only generate renewable energy but also address local environmental issues, such as wildfire risks, while creating jobs and training opportunities in the communities they serve. With a focus on sustainability and community engagement, Phoenix Energy is actively contributing to the transition towards a more sustainable energy future.

5. Agra Energy Corporation

• Website: agraenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Irvine, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2017
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: agraenergy

Agra Energy Corporation, founded in 2017 and based in Irvine, California, is a private renewable energy company focused on transforming dairy waste into renewable fuels. The company partners with dairy farms to convert methane and CO2 emissions into AGRA SYNTHETIC FUEL (ASF™), which includes renewable diesel and jet fuel. Their technology represents a significant advancement in the gas-to-liquids (GTL) conversion process, allowing for a smaller scale of operation that can process waste efficiently. Agra Energy's innovative approach not only mitigates greenhouse gas emissions but also offers economic advantages to farmers by reducing waste management costs and improving operational efficiency. The company has placed its first commercial order for a system that will process waste from a large dairy operation, indicating its commitment to scaling its technology and expanding its impact in the renewable energy sector.

6. Generate

• Website: generatecapital.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, United Kingdom (UK) 7%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $1.2B, November 2024
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: generatecapital

Generate Capital is a sustainable infrastructure provider based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2014. The company specializes in delivering reliable and affordable resource solutions across energy, water, waste, and mobility sectors. Generate partners with technology firms and project developers to build, own, operate, and finance sustainable infrastructure. Their portfolio includes a range of projects, particularly in organic waste management, biogas production, and waste-to-electricity initiatives. Recently, Generate raised $1.5 billion in capital commitments to support their sustainable infrastructure investments, further solidifying their role in the industry. With a team that includes experts in waste investments, Generate is actively involved in transforming waste into valuable energy resources, catering to cities, campuses, and enterprises aiming to meet their sustainability goals.

7. WasteFuel

• Website: wastefuel.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 65%, United Kingdom (UK) 18%, Philippines 18%
• Latest funding: Series B, $10.0M, July 2023
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: wastefuel-holdings

WasteFuel is a biofuels company based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2018. The company specializes in transforming municipal and agricultural waste into sustainable fuels, including green methanol and renewable natural gas. WasteFuel employs proven technologies to enhance the efficiency of its biorefinery projects, addressing significant environmental challenges while providing low-carbon energy solutions. Their strategic partnerships with major players in the waste management and agricultural sectors bolster their operational effectiveness. Recently, WasteFuel raised $10 million in a Series B funding round, reflecting strong investor confidence in their mission to revolutionize mobility and combat climate change through innovative waste-to-fuels technology. The company is actively involved in developing projects that convert waste into energy, contributing to a circular economy and promoting sustainability in the energy sector.

8. Greenleaf Power

• Website: greenleaf-power.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Sacramento, California, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $100.0M, June 2014
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: greenleaf-power

Greenleaf Power, founded in 2010 and based in Sacramento, California, is a private equity-backed renewable energy provider focused on biomass energy production. The company operates multiple facilities that transform forest debris and agricultural byproducts into renewable electricity, serving local utilities and communities. With a total generation capacity of 135 megawatts across four facilities, Greenleaf Power plays a significant role in the biomass sector. Their operations not only produce clean energy but also create approximately 500 local jobs, contributing to economic development. Greenleaf Power is committed to sustainability, actively participating in initiatives like California's SB 1383, which aims to reduce organic waste disposal. The company has received substantial funding, amounting to $100 million in 2014, to support its growth and operational improvements. This funding has enabled Greenleaf to enhance its facilities and expand its impact in the renewable energy landscape.

9. FusionOne

• Website: fusionone.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: San Jose, California, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: $75.0M, July 2010
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: fusionone

FusionOne Energy Corp., based in San Jose, California, is an energy and recycling company founded in 1998. The firm specializes in converting plastic waste into hydrogen and electricity using its proprietary HydroPlas™ reactor. This innovative technology is designed to address two critical global challenges: the overwhelming plastic waste crisis and the increasing demand for clean energy. FusionOne serves local governments and industries seeking sustainable waste management solutions. Their HydroPlas™ system is optimized for processing plastic waste and can also handle various carbon-based feedstocks. The outputs include high-purity hydrogen and zero-emission electricity, contributing to a cleaner energy future. The company has received significant funding, amounting to $75 million, which underscores its potential and ambition in the energy sector. FusionOne is actively working on projects, including a technical demonstrator in Michigan, to showcase the effectiveness of its technology in real-world applications.

10. ALL Power Labs

• Website: allpowerlabs.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berkeley, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $225,000, August 2016
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: all-power-labs

ALL Power Labs, founded in 2008 and based in Berkeley, California, is an environmental technology company that specializes in biomass gasification and biochar production. The company is dedicated to providing innovative solutions for carbon management and sustainable agriculture. Their products are designed to convert biomass waste into valuable resources, which not only helps in mitigating climate change but also enhances soil health. With a workforce of around 46 employees, ALL Power Labs targets a range of customers, including farmers, research institutions, and project developers. Their notable products include the Power Pallet, a biomass gasifier genset system, and the CharTainer, a containerized unit for transforming biomass waste into heat and biochar. The company has received funding, including a grant of $225,000 in 2016, which supports their ongoing projects and technological advancements in the waste to energy sector.

11. Brightmark

• Website: brightmarkenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: brightmark-energy

Brightmark is a private waste management and renewable energy company based in San Francisco, California, founded in 2016. The company is dedicated to transforming waste into new products through innovative technologies. Brightmark operates Circularity Centers that focus on two primary waste streams: plastics and organics. Through its proprietary Plastics Renewal® technology, Brightmark recycles plastic waste into new materials, while its anaerobic digestion processes organic waste into renewable natural gas (RNG). The company collaborates with dairy farmers to provide financial and environmental benefits through its technology, operating over 30 centers across the United States. Brightmark's mission is to reduce environmental impact and promote a circular economy, and it has engaged in various partnerships to tackle waste challenges, including initiatives to recycle marine waste in collaboration with the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

12. Biogas Engineering

• Website: biogaseng.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Long Beach, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: India 63%, United States (USA) 37%
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: biogas-engineering

Biogas Engineering, founded in 2016 and based in Long Beach, California, is an engineering firm dedicated to renewable energy solutions, with a particular focus on biogas collection and utilization. The company provides a full suite of services, including engineering, procurement, construction, and maintenance, primarily serving clients in the waste management and agricultural sectors in the United States and India. With a team of industry experts, Biogas Engineering aims to deliver cost-effective solutions to complex engineering challenges. Their projects include designing and operating facilities that convert biogas into renewable natural gas (RNG), as well as providing operations and maintenance services for biogas utilization plants. The firm emphasizes sustainable environmental stewardship and innovative problem-solving, making it a significant contributor to the waste-to-energy sector.

13. CR&R Incorporated

• Website: crrwasteservices.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Stanton, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1963
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: cr%26r-inc

CR&R Incorporated, founded in 1963 and based in Stanton, California, is a private waste management company that provides comprehensive waste collection and recycling services across Southern California. With a workforce of over 300 employees, CR&R serves more than 3 million residents and 25,000 businesses in multiple counties, including Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Imperial. The company emphasizes sustainability and environmental responsibility, offering services such as organics processing, recycling, and landfill disposal. Notably, CR&R operates the largest anaerobic digestion facility in North America, which processes organic waste into renewable natural gas and compost, showcasing their commitment to waste-to-energy solutions. Their extensive network of processing facilities allows them to manage various waste streams effectively, contributing to cleaner communities and reduced pollution. CR&R's investment in alternative fuel vehicles further highlights their dedication to innovative waste management practices and environmental stewardship.

14. Baker Commodities Inc.

• Website: bakercommodities.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Vernon, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Canada 4%
• Founded year: 1937
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: baker-commodities

Baker Commodities Inc., founded in 1937 and based in Vernon, California, is a family-owned company that specializes in waste management and recycling services. The firm focuses on animal rendering and grease recycling, providing essential services to various sectors including food processing, hospitality, and agriculture. They collect animal by-products and used cooking oil, converting these materials into valuable products such as biodiesel, protein meal, tallow, and feeding fats. Their biodiesel production, particularly through their New Leaf Biofuel operation, processes used cooking oil from numerous local restaurants, contributing to renewable energy solutions. Baker Commodities is dedicated to environmental care and sustainability, ensuring that waste is transformed into useful resources rather than being discarded. With a workforce of around 232 employees, the company continues to play a significant role in the recycling and waste management industry.

15. Arbor Energy

• Website: arbor.co
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Brazil 4%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $7.0M, October 2024
• Founded year: 2022
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: arbor-energy-resources

Arbor Energy and Resources Corporation, founded in 2022 and based in Los Angeles, California, is an energy company dedicated to carbon-negative power generation and carbon dioxide removal. The firm utilizes advanced technology to convert organic waste—such as agricultural residues and food waste—into clean energy while effectively capturing CO2. Their modular systems are designed for rapid deployment, making them an attractive option for businesses aiming to reduce their carbon footprint. Arbor Energy has garnered attention for its innovative approach, which combines aerospace technology with sustainable energy solutions. Recently, the company secured $7 million in funding, further supporting its mission to provide scalable and efficient energy solutions. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in their partnerships with organizations focused on climate goals, including a multi-year agreement with Microsoft to deliver carbon removal credits. This positions Arbor Energy as a significant player in the waste-to-energy sector, actively contributing to environmental stewardship and energy innovation.

16. Power Knot LLC

• Website: powerknot.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Fremont, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 83%, United Arab Emirates 13%, Netherlands 4%
• Founded year: 2009
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: power-knot

Power Knot LLC, founded in 2009 and based in Fremont, California, specializes in innovative food waste management solutions. The company is known for its LFC biodigester, a system designed to convert food waste into water through aerobic digestion. This technology not only helps businesses manage organic waste efficiently but also supports sustainability goals by reducing the carbon footprint associated with waste disposal. Power Knot serves a range of industries, including catering, healthcare, and grocery, providing tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of each sector. Their commitment to environmental responsibility is evident in their product offerings, which aim to eliminate odors, mess, and pests while ensuring compliance with waste disposal regulations. Power Knot's focus on on-site waste management solutions positions it as a significant player in the food waste sector, contributing to the broader waste to energy movement.

17. California Bioenergy LLC

• Website: calbioenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Visalia, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $9.0M, January 2019
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: california-bioenergy-llc

California Bioenergy LLC, founded in 2006 and based in Visalia, California, is a private renewable energy company that specializes in biogas production from dairy manure. The company collaborates with dairy farmers to develop digester projects that capture methane emissions and convert them into renewable natural gas. This innovative approach not only helps in managing waste but also provides farmers with new revenue streams and assists in nutrient management. California Bioenergy has been involved in over 100 projects, significantly reducing CO2e emissions by over 1 million metric tons annually. They have also received funding, including a notable grant of $9 million in January 2019, which supports their ongoing initiatives in the renewable energy sector.

18. Maas Energy Works

• Website: maasenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Redding, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, United Kingdom (UK) 2%
• Latest funding: November 2022
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: maas-energy-works-inc

Maas Energy Works, founded in 2010 and based in Redding, California, is a private equity-backed renewable energy company that specializes in the development and operation of anaerobic digesters for dairy and swine farms. The company provides a full suite of services, including design, construction management, and ongoing operations, to help agricultural businesses convert waste into renewable energy. With over 60 completed projects, Maas Energy Works has established itself as a significant player in the dairy digester market, processing manure from nearly 70 farms. Their projects not only generate renewable natural gas (RNG) but also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by capturing methane from animal waste. The company operates in various states across the U.S., showcasing its ability to scale and adapt to different agricultural environments. Maas Energy Works is committed to creating sustainable energy solutions that benefit both the environment and the agricultural sector.

19. Tomorrow Water

• Website: tomorrowwater.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Anaheim, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 70%, South Korea 25%, India 5%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: bkt-co

Tomorrow Water, founded in 1998 and based in Anaheim, California, is a private company that specializes in water treatment and resource recovery. With a workforce of approximately 122 employees, Tomorrow Water has established itself as a solutions provider for municipalities and industrial sectors facing challenges in efficient waste management and compliance with environmental standards. The company offers a range of innovative technologies, including advanced anaerobic digestion and biogas production, which are integral to the waste-to-energy process. Their projects often focus on transforming wastewater treatment plants into multifunctional hubs that not only treat water but also generate energy and recover resources. Tomorrow Water holds over 170 patents and has been involved in numerous government-funded projects, reflecting its commitment to research and development in the field. Their initiatives, such as the Tomorrow Water Project and the Co-Flow Campus, aim to integrate sustainable practices into wastewater management, making them a notable player in the industry.

20. Charm Industrial

• Website: charmindustrial.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Series B, $100.0M, June 2023
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: charm-industrial

Charm Industrial, founded in 2018 and based in San Francisco, California, is a carbon removal technology company that specializes in transforming agricultural residues into bio-oil. This bio-oil is then injected underground for permanent carbon storage, effectively removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The company targets businesses and organizations looking to offset their carbon emissions while promoting sustainability. Charm's innovative approach not only addresses waste management by utilizing agricultural byproducts but also enhances community benefits through job creation and environmental remediation. With a recent Series B funding round of $100 million in June 2023, Charm is positioned to expand its operations and impact in the carbon removal and waste to energy sectors.

21. One More Time, Inc.

• Website: onemoretimeinc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Vernon, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1973
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: one-more-time-inc

One More Time, Inc., founded in 1973 and based in Vernon, California, is a private waste management company that specializes in the collection and processing of used cooking oil. The company serves a variety of clients, including restaurants, hotels, and other food service establishments, helping them manage their waste efficiently. One More Time not only collects used cooking oil but also processes it into biodiesel, a renewable energy source that significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional petroleum diesel. Their operations are designed to enhance profitability for their clients while promoting environmental sustainability. With over 30 years of experience, One More Time has developed innovative systems and equipment to ensure safe and efficient waste oil removal, contributing to cleaner business practices and a healthier environment.

22. Niocycle Technologies

• Website: niocycle.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sunnyvale, California, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2021
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: niocycle

Niocycle Technologies, founded in 2021 and based in Sunnyvale, California, is a private company focused on the recycling of lithium-ion batteries. The company aims to address the environmental challenges associated with the increasing demand for electric vehicles and the subsequent rise in battery waste. Niocycle has developed innovative recycling technologies that allow for the recovery of valuable materials from used batteries with high purity and efficiency. Their proprietary process avoids traditional shredding methods, which often lead to material loss and environmental hazards. Instead, they emphasize a circular approach, aiming to reintegrate recycled materials back into the production of new batteries. This not only promotes sustainability but also enhances resource efficiency in the energy storage sector. Niocycle's commitment to innovation has attracted attention from investors, indicating a growing recognition of their potential impact in the industry.

Waste To Energy Insights: Key Companies in California

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