Estimation of Methane from Maseru City for Potential Electricity Generation

Abstract

The Maseru City Council uses a former quarry as a landfill for municipal waste disposal, creating environmental and health concerns. To address these, the Council aims to establish a new, sanitary landfill at the Ts’oeneng site in Rothe, Maseru. Recognising methane emissions as a potential energy source, this study assesses methane emissions and energy potential from 2025 to 2045, assuming all Maseru waste is directed to Ts’oeneng. Methane generation is projected to start in 2026, with an estimated annual energy potential of 2.9 MWh in the first year. The peak of methane production is expected between 2043 and 2045, with the highest annual energy potential reaching 44.1 MWh in 2045. The study was conducted using LandGEM which used waste composition and decay rates as key parameters. The projected energy output would contribute only 0.0045% of Lesotho’s annual energy consumption of 976 GWh, the initiative offers a sustainable waste management solution and enhances energy diversification. However, financial feasibility and regulatory constraints may pose challenges. The findings could inform policy on landfill gas utilisation, contributing to Lesotho’s energy resources and reducing reliance on conventional energy resources.