From Waste to Energy: Renewable Electricity Generation Through Anaerobic Digestion of Municipal Waste, a Review

The increasing volumes of municipal waste, coupled with the urgent demand for sustainable energy solutions, have spurred global interest in waste-to-energy technologies. Among these, anaerobic digestion (AD) has emerged as a promising method for converting municipal waste into renewable electricity. This paper provides a detailed review of the potential of AD technology in addressing energy and waste management challenges. It explores critical operational parameters, such as temperature, pH, retention time, and feedstock characteristics, which significantly influence the efficiency and yield of biogas production. Advancements in AD technology, such as co-digestion, pre-treatment methods, and process monitoring systems, are discussed in terms of their ability to optimize energy output and operational stability. The study further examines the various pathways for converting biogas into electricity. Technologies such as internal combustion engines, gas and steam turbines, and fuel cells are reviewed for their efficiency, scalability, and infrastructure requirements. In addition to electricity generation, the potential for upgrading biogas into biomethane for injection into natural gas grids is highlighted as a complementary approach to maximizing the utility of municipal waste. Environmental benefits of AD, including the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, mitigation of landfill use, and promotion of circular waste management systems, are thoroughly discussed. However, challenges remain in scaling up AD systems, particularly in terms of economic feasibility, feedstock variability, and integration into existing waste and energy infrastructure. Policy support, technological innovation, and community engagement are identified as critical factors for overcoming these barriers.