Hydrogen from food waste: Energy potential, economic feasibility, and environmental impact for sustainable valorization

Abstract

Globally, inefficient management of municipal solid waste, composed primarily of food waste poses concern for human and environmental well-being. Food waste can be converted into hydrogen gas, which can be utilized to generate power without emitting any harmful pollutants. This solution would also help with the issue of disposing of food waste. The conversion of food waste into hydrogen is a practical energy source with potential financial benefits. This study explores the transformative potential of converting food waste into renewable energy through hydrogen production, focusing on Bangladesh from 2023 to 2042. Notably, the study forecasts a surge in food waste from 23 million tons in 2023–110 million tons by 2042. By 2042, food waste is expected to generate 2480 MW of power, a rise from 489 MW in 2023. Based on the results of the economic study, the food waste into hydrogen via gasification project is financially viable in all of Bangladesh's main cities. Metrics such as internal rate of return, payback period, levelized cost of energy, net present value, and total life cycle cost were used to assess economic viability. The hydrogen production cost, payback period, and internal rate of return are 2.05 $/kg, 11 years and 14% respectively. It was discovered that using the available electricity from hydrogen gas may displace 1428 M liters of diesel fuel combustion. The quantity of diesel fuel saved can cut carbon dioxide emissions by 3.85 million tons. It was also found that using hydrogen as a source of energy generation has an attractive ecological efficiency of 99.98%. This research provides novel and pertinent data for investors contemplating gasification-based energy projects in Bangladesh. It pioneers a path toward eco-friendly waste management, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and the adoption of sustainable energy solutions for the country.