The Lagos State government is currently working with a Dutch firm, Harvest Waste Consortium, to convert solid waste into usable energy.
This initiative, spearheaded by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, involves the establishment of a Waste-to-Energy plant at the Epe landfill. The advanced technology at the plant will transform solid, commercial, and industrial waste into clean energy.
Once completed, the project aims to provide electricity for 40,000 homes, thereby reducing pressure on the national electricity grid.
It also intends to enhance energy security by generating between 6 and 75 megawatts of electricity annually.
The partnership was initiated by the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources and formalized under the Lagos State Office of Public-Private Partnership (PPP).
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the current waste disposal practices in Lagos necessitated this collaboration to mitigate environmental pollution, improve air quality, and prevent water contamination.
Sanwo-Olu stated, “Today marks a significant milestone in the journey towards a cleaner, healthier and more sustainable Lagos, as we formalize a partnership with Harvest Waste Consortium.
This is a collaboration that promises to transform waste management and energy production in our State.”
The plant, with the capacity to process 2,250 tonnes of waste daily, aims to divert over 95% of waste from landfill sites.
It is expected to capture about 550,000 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases emitted from dumpsites, contributing to environmental protection.
The governor highlighted that the project, spanning 25 years, will boost economic activities and create employment opportunities.
The technology has been endorsed by the European Commission as the most efficient available.
Ms. Leonie Van der Stijl, Deputy Consul General of the Netherlands Consulate, expressed support from the Dutch government for the project, emphasizing international cooperation to address local challenges and positioning Lagos as a primary partner in Dutch waste management.
In conclusion, Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that the project will minimize the harmful effects of municipal solid waste, protect public health and the environment, and promote a circular economy by reducing landfill dependency and encouraging recycling.
