Using waste to provide energy is obviously a novel idea, especially in Africa. However, putting it to use in under-developed countries is a greater challenge, but one that could potentially offer substantial benefits.
At the World Future Energy Summit, industry executives gave presentations discussing the benefits of waste-to-energy technologies.
Alternative Energy Africa asked Jacob Klimstra, senior energy and engine specialist for Wärtsilä Power Plants, and Professor Steffen Lehmann from UNESCO, Chair Sustainable Urban Development, how waste-to-energy could be implemented to help African nations, particularly areas already hit hard with power outages like Lagos, Nigeria. Klimstra said that the world wants to make a quick solution, and there were many opportunities to convert the gas. “The solution is easy. The legislation needs to be in place,” he said.
According to Juan Unda, President of Zabalgarbi, Waste-to-Energy produces electricity “with less environmental impact than the majority of energy sources available nowadays. The public doesn’t consider it as a renewable energy but that of out-dated incineration methods from the 1970’s and 80’s”.
Lagos is a prime market for investors to incorporate green initiatives, but it is no secret that the political and economic infrastructure of the area is unstable. With militant groups, rampant kidnappings, and poverty just to name a few, many investors are fearful of they will not see a return on their investment. Lehman acknowledged that “just to make the city a safe place is a major challenge.”
However, money isn’t the only issue. The main issue is sustainability to provide a better life for under-developed countries, especially in a country where less than 40% of the residents have access to electricity.
Lehmann said that UNESCO was looking into the cultural or environmental prospects to alleviate poverty. However, Lagos is a special undertaking. “Lagos is a city totally out of control,” he said. “You don’t know where to start and where to end.”