We all know that the Landfills have a huge potential for energy generation in terms of LFG (Land Fill Gas) which is predominantly methane. This means that due to Anaerobic decomposition of the organic matter in the landfills, the complex organic molecules break down into a much simpler CH4 and CO2. Methane and Carbon Dioxide both form a major part of the LFG. This LFG can be collected, cleaned and purified to utilize Methane as a fuel or to generate power.
Now a new mode of power generation from the landfills has been discovered. Cashing on the large area covered by the Landfills and utilizing the suitable slope, Solar cells (photovoltaic modules) can be integrated to the liners of the closed and capped landfills. These solar cells convert the solar energy into electricity. The wide expanse of the landfill, the raised platforms, the treeless/shadeless area and slope stability help significantly in such an installation. These kinds of projects are already being developed in New York City and Massachusetts, but their viability in India still remains a question. The major concerns are:
a) Funds for investing in a project like that
b) Safe closure, covering, monitoring and maintenance of exhausted landfills
c) Project can be done only on stable slopes of landfills eg. landfills that have closed about 15 years ago
d) Potential of power generation still in research phase
Picture source: http://www.solarintegrated.com/landfills.html
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