May 13, 2008. /Lesprom.com/. SMART Papers announced that it has begun construction on a new $30 million high-efficiency energy co-generation facility, which ultimately will use 100% biomass fuel to generate electricity and steam to operate the company's mill. The project includes four turbines, two condensers, a cooling tower and auxiliary equipment. Dan Maheu, president and COO of SMART Papers, said the company has bought and sold power from the local utility for the last 10 years, but the current power generation facility at the mill did not maximize return of its fuel inputs. "We will reduce production costs, make carbon-neutral papers and greatly reduce our greenhouse gas emissions," Maheu said. "We will also be a positive contributor to the green power needs of Ohio and the Midwest." Biomass fuel that will be used in the co-generation facility is made up of short-fiber cellulosic waste material that is typically landfilled, the company said. SMART Papers said it has received all necessary permits for the project and expects the new plant to be complete by the 2Q 2009. SMART Papers is the largest North American manufacturer and marketer of environmentally responsible, premium cast coated, matte coated and uncoated text, cover and writing papers.