The controlled incineration process as an alternative to handle MSW and generate electric energy in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico

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Municipal solid waste (MSW) is a severe problem for cities on a global scale. Its correct management and final disposal are imperative to avoid negative impacts on society. Mexico and its constitutional states present conservative management and final disposal of MSW (low recycling and high use of open dumps). This study analyzes the technical, environmental, and economic feasibility of using a controlled incineration process in Guanajuato (Mexico) to generate electric energy and reduce the need to use landfills or open dumps for final disposal. The results indicate technical feasibility with Waste-to-Energy plants (WtE) capable of handling between 2000 and 3000 T/day, reducing CO2eq emissions by larger than 50% compared with landfills. Under the assumed parameter, economic feasibility is the main drawback since the NPV, IRR, and LCOE indicate no profitability; however, an increment in plant efficiency, a reduction in O&M cost, and a discount rate decrement led to achieving feasibility. The study introduces the Overall Decision-making Factor (ODMF) as a parameter of quantitative comparison among the proposed plants. This parameter considers each plant's main technical, environmental, and economic factors.