Biogas Estimation as a Basis for the Implementation of an Intermunicipal Landfill: Michoacan, Mexico

Abstract

Municipal solid waste (MSW) generated in the municipalities of Sahuayo, Jiquilpan and Venustiano Carranza in Michoacan, is deposited in open dumps becoming hot spots for health and the environment. The total population in the three municipalities is 130,497 habitants, with a per capita waste production estimated in 0.718 kg·hab -1 · day -1 (34,203 t · yr -1 ). The aim of this study was to estimate the formation of biogas for power generation from the decomposition of waste. The model used was the mexican model of biogas (version 2.0), assuming a useful life of 21 years of the landfill at a cost of 0.19 USD per kWh, the average CFE rate for municipal public lighting. Four possible scenarios were evaluated: one optimal recovering 68% of the biogas (10,095 tonnes of methane in 20 years), having a savings concept in electricity of 8,015,252 USD; in the second case (optimistic intermediate), it is assumed that it obtains 61% of biogas (9046 tonnes of methane) with benefits in power generation for 7,159,679 USD; the third case (pessimistic intermediate) estimating 48% of biogas recovered, being captured 7118 tonnes of methane with profits of 5,633,846 USD into electrical energy, the latter case (pessimistic), assuming 40% of biogas recovered, transforming 4672 tonnes of methane resultant in an economic benefit of 3,697,324 USD for electricity generation. The results justify the investment of the landfill and it is a measure to mitigate climate change and disease prevention.