A Bi-level Optimization Model for Municipal Solid Waste Disposal Using Gasification Technology

This paper develops a bi-level optimization model to manage the entire municipal solid waste disposal process using gasification technology, with the goals of minimizing total carbon emissions of the local authority and maximizing total profits of the municipal solid waste operators. We aim to find an equilibrium point that satisfies both levels’ benefits while also resolving their internal conflicts. The proposed methodology is then applied to a real-life case to test its feasibility. Scenario analyses on electricity subsidies of gasification technology are performed to provide practical suggestions on municipal solid waste management and electricity recovery. It was found that the proposed methodology can orderly regulate waste transportation and gasification, efficiently recover electricity resource, and balance multiple objectives to achieve bi-level harmony. Gasification was found as a promising technology for the municipal solid waste operators to make profits and maintain stable operations without the backing of the local authority, due to its ability to produce abundant energy products.