2017-2018 Grant in Aid of Research

Waste-to-Energy for Madagascar: An Alternative Source of Electricity

Tiana Velombololona Rabearison

The power system in Madagascar has been challenged during the past recent months due to climate change. To respond to the scarcity of rainfall on the island, which remarkably impacted the hydro-electric system, this research will explore possibilities of “how to improve the energy system in Madagascar.” One alternative that the project proposes for a more sustainable source of electricity is the use of Waste-to-Energy. The voluminous trash that big cities on the island collect may be burned to fuel the Powerplant system. Guided by relevant engineering technicities and with proper compliance with Environmental regulations, the waste-to-energy program will promote development. The realization of this project is hypothesized to (a) secure access to energy at all seasons for the population; (b) create job opportunities and thus improve the income of households and small enterprises; (c) provide the collateral benefit to community health; and (d) sustain environmental resources. In addition to determining technical feasibility, the study will engage with interrelated disciplines such as socioeconomic development, environmental impact analysis, anthropological factors, and humanitarian implications. After a series of assessments and evaluations in the country, this research will propose a set of policies to the state-owned electricity company (JIRAMA) and to the Ministry of Mine and Energy.