Investigation into Energy Generation from Solid Waste Management in Selected Areas of Western States of Nigeria

Abstract

This research describes the current situation of waste management in Nigeria, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for energy generation and improved energy efficiency via waste-to-energy technologies using waste as feedstock. For a suitable and sustainable energy generation, various energy conversion technologies were observed. Thereafter, the attached benefits of the various technologies in terms of economic, environmental, and energy are contained in this report. In addition, this study identified what constitutes solid waste, and sources of generation, developed appropriate sorting method for separating the solid waste into its components. The energy convertible ones were identified as well as calorific value available in each component. This we believe will help those seeking energy from solid waste to make decisions. The technologies behind each conversion method were also explained in this study as well as the cost implication. This investigation proved that: anaerobic digestion is a net energy-producing process; biogas facilities produced high-quality renewable fuel; surplus energy as electricity and heat is produced during anaerobic digestion of biomass; anaerobic digestion reduces reliance on energy imports; the facilities involved positively contributed to decentralization and distribution of power system and it proved also that biogas is a rich sources of electricity, heat and transportation fuel. In no doubt, this research will assist small, medium and large scale industries in both developed and developing countries to made decision when sourcing for energy to man their industries. It will also go a long way as help for domestic use.