GBB was selected by EPRI to prepare a detailed engineering and economic evaluation for the use of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) as fuel in the generation of power utilizing various conversion technologies and parameters. The intent of the evaluation was to provide a current status on the technologies associated with MSW, including performance data, cost (capital, operation and maintenance (O&M), and levelized cost of electricity (LCOE)), and prospects for future improvement of the technology types. The study is part of EPRI’s overall research and development relating to the generation, delivery, and use of electricity for the benefit of the public.

The GBB Project Team developed the design basis and economic assumptions for use in the evaluation. Technology overviews were performed, summarizing factors such as regulatory environment affecting the implementation and use of MSW conversion technologies; current status and maturity of developing waste conversion technologies; and a summary of the O&M-related differences between each. The technologies evaluated were mass-burn WTE facilities; refuse-derived fuel-co-firing systems; and landfill gas utilization, along with providing an overview of other MSW conversion technologies. EPRI will utilize the resulting evaluations in the annual updates of its Renewable Energy Technology Guide (RETG), which is a key product of its renewable energy program (Program 84).