Mumbai’s Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is set to roll out an innovative Waste-to-Energy Project. This ambitious initiative aims to transform 600 tons per day (TPD) of municipal solid waste into electricity, enhancing the city’s waste management and energy production capabilities.
The project, which is backed by the 15th Finance Commission Grant for Solid Waste Management, is projected to commence operations by October 2025, with an anticipated capital expenditure of INR 504 crore. The Waste-to-Energy Project is designed to produce approximately 7 megawatts (MW) of electricity, marking a substantial addition to Mumbai’s energy infrastructure. This initiative aligns with broader national goals to improve waste management practices, as outlined in a recent report submitted by 36 States and Union Territories to the Central Pollution Control Board.
The report highlighted that India generated 1,70,339 tons of municipal solid waste daily in 2021-2022. Of this, 1,56,449 TPD was collected, 91,511 TPD was processed or treated, and 41,455 TPD was relegated to landfills. Within Mumbai, the daily generation of municipal solid waste stands at approximately 6,400 TPD. The BMC currently processes and manages 5,800 TPD at the Kanjurmarg Integrated Waste Management Facility using advanced bio-reactor and composting technologies. However, around 600 TPD of waste still ends up at the Deonar Dumping Ground, highlighting the need for enhanced waste processing solutions.
The forthcoming Waste-to-Energy Project represents a pivotal shift in how Mumbai handles its waste, turning what would otherwise be landfill material into a valuable resource. By converting waste into electricity, the BMC aims to address the dual challenges of waste disposal and energy generation, fostering a more sustainable urban environment. The project’s successful implementation will not only improve waste management but also contribute to the city’s energy needs, reinforcing Mumbai’s commitment to environmental sustainability and resource optimisation.
