Waste-to-Energy in Rural Area: The Production of Hydrogen-Driven Electricity from Solid Recovery Fuel

A multidisciplinary approach will be employed, involving waste composition studies, technological development for hydrogen production through plasma-assisted gasification, and assessments of environmental and socio-economic implications. Collaborators from various disciplines, including engineering, environmental science, and social sciences, will contribute to a holistic understanding of the waste-to-energy system’s feasibility and impacts.

Regular team meetings, knowledge-sharing sessions, and collaborative workshops will foster effective communication and interdisciplinary collaboration. External stakeholders, including local communities, industry, and government, will be engaged to ensure practical insights and policy relevance.

The primary objective of this project is to develop a waste-to-energy system that efficiently converts agriculture waste-derived solid recovery fuel into hydrogen. The system in this project was built based on three components plasma-assisted gasification, hydrogen purification system, and power generation system. The waste will be processed on plasma-assisted gasification which can produce syngas or hydrocarbons. The hydrogen will then be purified through a carbon capture system, which will then be utilised to generate electricity through a fuel cell system. The key goal is to create a technologically robust and environmentally friendly system that transforms solid recovery fuel into hydrogen-driven electricity, addressing both waste management and energy access challenges.

WUN’s support plays a pivotal role in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange among member universities. This collaborative network provides a platform for experts in engineering, environmental science, and social sciences to synergise their efforts.

The project gains additional significance as it aligns with the discussions held during the WUN Annual General Meeting on sustainability. The involvement of university/ academic background in tackling the climate crisis emphasises the urgency and necessity of projects like ours. It underscores the broader commitment of the academic community to actively contribute to solutions for global challenges.

In Summary

Our project represents a proactive approach to a critical issue, proposing an innovative and sustainable solution to waste management and energy access in rural areas. Through WUN’s collaborative network, we are well-positioned to navigate the complexities of waste-to-energy systems. The overarching objectives include developing practical insights, influencing policy for sustainable waste management, and advancing universal access to clean and renewable energy sources. This project embodies the spirit of shared responsibility and collective action championed by WUN, contributing to a more sustainable and resilient future.