Municipal Solid Waste as Alternative Source of Energy Generation: A Case Study of Jalingo Metropolis – Taraba State

摘要

An investigation of the case study on Alternative Energy Recovery from Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) in Jalingo Metropolis of possible technologies and processes that are or can be utilized to convert post-consumers and post-recycled solid waste into useful end-products was conducted. This arises as MSW became a global problem; hence finding a clean method to convert this waste into an alternative renewable energy source became a major play in the resolution to fossil fuel dependency and reduction in quantity land filled. The paper captures a trend in the MSW conversion into alternative energy for Jalingo Metropolis – Taraba State, the energy recovery of the biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste was considered for both the Thermo-chemical and Bio-chemical conversion processes. Approximately 18,144 tons/year of waste was generated and disposed, out of which 15,930.43 tons/year was available for conversion into energy with bio-chemical and thermo-chemical conversion processes producing 62,596.80 kW and 151,016.14 kW Net Power Generation Potential respectively. Full conversion to electricity is unlikely and the resulting energy potential from the Metropolis MSW being substantial. The technologies for the recovery already exist and are being extensively utilized across the globe for various benefits, it is necessary for the success of these technologies in Taraba State to evolve an Integrated Waste Management System, coupled with necessary Legislative and Control measures. Detailed feasibility study, pollution control measures, Environmental Impact Assessment and cost analysis needs to be conducted in each case and relative assessment of the different waste disposal options.