Waste-to-energy: Exploring the roadmap for energy generation from commercial waste in South Africa

Purpose:
This study aims to investigate the adoption of waste-to-energy (WtE) technologies in South Africa, focusing on identifying the key drivers, barriers, and potential solutions for commercial uptake. The ultimate aim is to propose an implementation framework that promotes renewable energy while reducing landfill reliance.
Design/methodology/approach
A systematic literature review (SLR) of papers published between 2020 and 2023 was conducted to identify factors impacting WtE adoption in South Africa. The conceptual model developed from the SLR was tested using a qualitative case study approach. Data was collected through 15 semi-structured interviews with commercial entities and WtE experts from four regions of South Africa.
Findings
Anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis are identified as the most suitable waste-to-energy technologies in the South African context. Among the financial challenges of WtE in South Africa, the availability of cheap coal, low landfill tariffs, high capital costs, funding constraints, and regressive economic incentives are critical. The lack of government support, insufficient incentives, regulatory burdens, weak policies and limited innovation capacity are considerable non-financial barriers hindering WtE technologies' growth. The successful adoption of renewable energy also requires adequate infrastructure, increased sustainability awareness, and technical expertise.
Research limitations /implications
While the sample size is diverse and consists of a range of organisations, it may not capture the thoughts and experiences of other SA businesses in their entirety. It is important to note that the lack of existing research on the implementation, benefits, and impacts of WtE technologies limits the authors’ ability to interpret and benchmark our findings. Yet, this study contributes by developing an implementation framework to encourage WtE adoption, recommending policy actions such as regressive taxation on fossil fuels and landfills, and promoting renewable energy through subsidies, awareness, and energy credits.
Practical implications
This study provides a practical framework for businesses and policymakers to adopt WtE technologies by addressing key barriers. The research suggests that businesses could reduce waste management costs and generate new revenue streams by adopting anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis. Policymakers are encouraged to disincentivize landfills and promote WtE through financial incentives such as subsidies and energy credits. The implementation framework offers clear recommendations for integrating WtE into South Africa's energy and waste management strategies, supporting both sustainability and economic goals.
Social implications
The main social contribution is the potential for WtE adoption to improve waste management practices and generate new job opportunities within the renewable energy and waste sectors.
Originality/value
This study provides a novel contribution by developing an implementation framework tailored to South Africa’s unique regulatory, economic, and social contexts. The research highlights the importance of aligning WtE adoption with sustainability goals, reducing reliance on fossil fuels, and promoting renewable energy. The framework serves as a practical guide for policymakers, businesses, and industry leaders seeking to implement sustainable waste management solutions in South Africa.