Singapore currently operates four waste incineration plants, which process over 7,600 tons of waste daily. Remarkably, 90% of the waste burned is converted into electricity, showcasing an efficient and sustainable approach to waste management. The Tuas South Waste Incineration Plant, for example, has a daily capacity of 3,000 tons, contributing about 2% to Singapore’s total electricity consumption. In 2012, this plant generated revenue of S$100 million, highlighting the economic viability of such projects.
Compared to traditional methods like landfilling, waste incineration remains in its early stages globally. However, Singapore's model offers valuable lessons for other countries, especially in terms of integration between waste management and energy production. Song Zhichen, a researcher at China Investment Advisor Energy Industry Co., Ltd., emphasizes that the power generation efficiency of Singapore’s waste-to-energy industry is impressive, with strong economic returns. He believes that the entire process—from waste generation to classification, collection, transportation, and utilization—offers a model worth studying worldwide.
In China, the waste-to-energy sector is still in its infancy. It faces challenges such as delayed development, weak infrastructure, and a fragmented market with many small, uncoordinated enterprises. The industry is largely driven by government policies and subsidies rather than economic incentives. This limits broader participation from private companies, as awareness and understanding of waste-to-energy projects remain limited.
Additionally, most waste-to-energy projects in China are concentrated in large and medium-sized cities, particularly in first-tier cities where environmental regulations are strict. Despite these pressures, many projects have not yet achieved significant economic benefits. Public opposition is common when such facilities are located near residential areas, while those in suburban zones require well-developed logistics systems to function effectively.
Another challenge is the lack of effective waste sorting. Poor classification at the source forces waste treatment plants to re-sort materials, increasing operational costs. Guo Fanli, manager at China Investment Consulting Industry Research Group, highlights that waste-to-energy projects offer social, environmental, and economic benefits and represent a crucial part of the energy sector. Although the industry is still developing, it holds great potential.
With continued technological advancements, improved equipment, and better management practices, the profitability of waste-to-energy projects in China is expected to grow. Domestic companies are showing increasing interest and investment in this field. During the "12th Five-Year Plan" period, more waste-to-energy projects are expected to be launched, signaling a promising future for the industry.
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