The Energy Technologies Institute (ETI) is looking into the next generation of technologies which will help us produce energy from waste. It is estimated that around 100 million tonnes of waste produced annually in the UK could be converted into energy instead of going to landfill or being disposed of in other ways.
A consortium led by Caterpillar, involving EDF Energy, Cranfield University, CPI Innovation Services and Shanks Waste Management will carry out the work.
'Local generation of energy will play a key part in achieving climate change goals. There is considerable potential for generating clean energy from waste and many local authorities are looking to invest in energy from waste technology,' said ETI Chief Executive Dr David Clarke.
'The challenge is that many existing facilities that create energy from waste are limited to specific waste streams, and there is a need to improve the current approach and flexibility of available technologies to encourage wider uptake.
'This study will map and characterize the waste produced in the UK, and will identify technology development opportunities to generate clean energy.'
The team will assess the energy content of waste created in the UK, evaluate existing technologies and improvements to generate energy from waste. It will assess the potential benefits including reduced CO2 emissions, increased affordability and a secure, local supply of fuel.
