Analytical Assessment of Biogas-to-Electricity Potential from Municipal Solid Waste in Enugu Urban Area

Municipal solid waste (MSW) biogas represents an underutilised renewable energy resource in Nigerian urban centres, offering simultaneous waste management and electricity generation benefits. This study analytically assesses the biogas-to-electricity potential from municipal solid waste management in Enugu urban area, Enugu State, quantifying theoretical and technically recoverable biogas yields and modelling electricity generation scenarios. The research employs a resource characterisation and energy modelling methodology, beginning with waste composition analysis using the quartering method on representative waste samples collected at the Aji landfill and market waste collection centres. Biochemical methane potential (BMP) tests are conducted on the organic fraction of MSW to determine specific methane yields. A first-order kinetic landfill gas generation model (EPA Landfill Gas Emissions Model, LandGEM) is calibrated with site-specific waste composition data to project long-term biogas production profiles. The generated biogas is modelled for conversion to electricity using gas engine generation, with parasitic power, system availability, and gas-to-power conversion efficiency incorporated into the net electricity output estimates. A research gap addressed is the absence of site-specific biogas characterisation data for medium-sized Nigerian cities in the Southeast zone, where waste management infrastructure differs substantially from Lagos-focused existing studies. Findings indicate that Enugu's current MSW landfill could support continuous electricity generation of 2.8 to 4.1 MW over a 20-year facility life, sufficient to supply a significant portion of the Aji community's electricity needs. Economic modelling suggests a project IRR of 14 to 19 percent under carbon credit monetisation assumptions. Recommendations include waste authority-private developer partnership development and integration of the project into Enugu State's renewable energy masterplan. Keywords: biogas, municipal solid waste, Enugu, landfill gas, waste-to-energy.