Evaluation of Kaduna Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) as an Alternative Source of Energy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/fjorae.2026.0301.69Keywords:
Municipal solid waste (MSW), Waste-to-energy (WtE), Higher heating value (HHV), Energy recovery, Kaduna metropolis, Household electrification.Abstract
Kaduna metropolis generates significant quantities of municipal solid waste (MSW), with an average Higher Heating Value (HHV) of 21.18 MJ/kg, indicating strong potential for energy recovery. This study evaluates the techno-economic feasibility of converting MSW into electricity, with emphasis on calorific value assessment and household energy supply potential. Laboratory analysis of waste samples collected from Goni Gora and Kakau dumpsites revealed HHV values of 23.24 MJ/kg and 19.11 MJ/kg, respectively. Waste generation was projected using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) model based on a 2025 baseline population of 1.26 million and a per capita generation rate of 0.497 kg/person/day. The organic fraction (52%) was incorporated into the energy estimation model, and sensitivity analysis (±10% and ±20%) was performed to account for variability in waste generation. Results indicate that Kaduna MSW could generate up to 700 GWh/year of electrical energy under ideal conditions. However, this represents theoretical energy potential; assuming a typical conversion efficiency of about 30% for waste-to-energy systems, the net electrical output is significantly lower. The energy generated has the potential to supply electricity to about 73,000 to 175,000 households annually. The findings demonstrate that MSW represents a viable supplementary energy resource capable of contributing up to 16% to 20% of Kaduna’s electricity demand while improving environmental sustainability.
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