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Bilbao Landfill Fuels Power: Waste to Watts!
25 Sep
Summary
- The Artigas landfill converted decomposing waste into renewable biogas.
- In its first year, it produced 4.4 million kWh of electricity.
- This initiative reduced noxious gas emissions and unpleasant odors.
The Artigas landfill in Bilbao, Spain, demonstrated a revolutionary approach to waste management by converting decomposing urban waste into renewable biogas.
During its first year of operation, from November 1992 to October 1993, the facility produced 4.4 million kWh of electricity, selling the entire output to the energy company Iberdrola.
This innovative project involved collecting biogas, which averaged 52 percent methane, from 21 wells. The collected gas was then purified and dehumidified before powering two internal combustion engines, each driving a 450 kW alternator.
Beyond electricity generation, the Artigas plant significantly addressed environmental concerns. By collecting and removing landfill gas, it reduced the risk of explosions and mitigated unpleasant odors, while also preventing damage to surrounding vegetation.
