Work

Evaluation of the energy potential of municipal solid waste for incineration: Ajo open dumpsite, Hosanna, Ethiopia

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: • Evaluation of Hosanna City's single dumpsite for municipal solid waste (MSW) management. • MSW's energy potential was assessed through a feasibility study on incineration. • Waste was experimentally characterised at Wachemo University using ASTM standards . • By weight, organic waste (fruit, food, and chat) makes up 55% of all MSW. • MSW has an average calorific value of 19.51 MJ/kg and a moisture content of 55.65%. • 7.21 MJ/kg is the estimated net energy potential. • 83.35% waste-to-energy conversion efficiency was attained. • Incineration was determined to be a feasible alternative for both energy recovery and waste management. The concern of municipal solid waste in developing countries like Ethiopia is a headache for it is underrated and due attention is not given by concerning bodies. A proper method of handling and disposal of municipal solid waste (MSW) in Hosanna City (with a single dumpsite: Ajo/Mazoria), is a critical issue that needs to be addressed. Evaluating the energy potential of municipal solid waste for incineration would facilitate the development of viable solutions. In line with that, researchers conducted evaluations of the energy potential and feasibility for incineration of the MSW at the dumpsite. Experimental analyses of the samples were conducted to determine the waste compositions in the chemistry department lab at Wachemo University based on ASTM standards . The weekly analysis showed that the main compositions of the MSW generated at the study site were food waste, chat waste, and fruit waste, which accounted for 55% of the total waste by weight. The average calorific value of the waste was estimated to be 19.51 MJ/kg, having moisture content of 55.65%. The net energy potential of the MSW in the study site was calculated to be 7.21 MJ/kg, with a waste to energy conversion efficiency of 83.35%. Accordingly, incineration of the MSW at the study site might be a feasible strategy to manage the waste being disposed of while recovering sufficient energy from it.

Source: Energy Nexus

DOI: 10.1016/j.nexus.2026.100659

Authors: Degefe Zeleke Siyum, Adane Woldemedhin Kalisido, Mulatu Chake Gilago

Institution: Wachemo University

Language: English

Topic: Municipal Solid Waste Management

Subfield: Waste Management and Disposal

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Affordable and clean energy, Climate action, Sustainable cities and communities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,200