The potential for a combined heat and power (CHP) generation from municipal solid waste: A case study of Croatia

Abstract

The purpose of this case study was to assess the potential for combined heat and power (CHP) generation in Croatia using mixed municipal waste (MMW) as the fuel source. Calculations were based on waste composition by identifiable items coupled with heating values obtained from the technical and scientific literature. The results of the study suggest that MMW could generate between 1.79% and 5.72% of Croatia's electricity needs and provide between 1.099.683 and 343.652 GJ of thermal energy per year, depending on the amount of waste diverted to recycling. The research emphasizes the importance of WtE as a safe and environmentally friendly solution to waste management problems.

Keywords

• Mixed municipal waste
• Waste composition by identifiable items
• Heating value
• Waste-to-energy (WtE)
• Combined heat and power production (CHP)
• Environmental impact