Work out waste to energy output instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
Thermal input is throughput times net calorific value. Boiler efficiency of 80-86% and a steam cycle efficiency of 25-30% give gross electrical output; parasitic load for fans, pumps and flue gas treatment consumes 10-15%. Net output is typically 500-700 kWh per tonne of municipal waste.
Thermal input
Thermal (MW) = throughput (t/h) x 1000 x CV (MJ/kg) / 3600
Electrical output
Net electrical = thermal x boiler efficiency x cycle efficiency x (1 - parasitic load)
Energy from waste plants must meet emission limit values and efficiency criteria to qualify as recovery rather than disposal under waste framework legislation.
Steam temperature is limited to around 400-440 C to avoid high-temperature chlorine corrosion of superheater tubes. That caps cycle efficiency well below a coal or gas plant.
Substantially. Exporting heat raises total energy utilisation from under 30% to 70-85%, which is why the highest-performing plants are sited near a heat load.