Valorization of Household Waste via Biogas Production in Algeria since 1938: Inventory and Perspectives

Abstract

Energy is an important factor in Algerian’s economy, the recent Algerian's economy crisis is due to the fall of the oil incomes of 70% in less than two years, which made the country lose half of its external receipts and causing an important deficit of its trade balance. The fossil fuel reserves will not last eternally (some 40 to 50 years) and the human activity causes a significant change of the climate, which has actually important repercussions. The need to find an alternative and renewable source of energy is becoming increasingly important for the sustainable development. However, Algeria is a country rich in solar and biomass layer; according to the National Waste Agency, more than 28,219 tones of municipal solid waste are generated per day. Energetic valorization of municipal solid waste (MSW) seems to be an alternative solution for sustainable development of Algeria, which the biogas constitutes a considerable source of renewable energy. This paper presents an overview for the status of this technology in Algeria including the increasing of the interest in methanization since 1938. Also in this study, is referred the first experience of Tamanrasset (southern of Algeria) in the field of biogas production.