KOCHI: As the city is struggling to process non-biodegradable waste, the private sector is actively setting up facilities for processing the same. A waste-to-energy plant, which can process 40 tonnes of non-biodegradable waste, is coming up at Willingdon Island.
The Cochin Water 2 Energy Pvt Ltd (CW2E) is in the process of setting up the gasification plant on the land leased from Cochin Port Trust (CPT). The project facilitates conversion of waste into electricity.
The project is being implemented in two stages. The first stage, which includes the waste treatment plant, will be ready in one-and-a-half months. Thereafter, the work on the second stage, which consists of installation of conveyors, gas clean-up systems and electricity generators, will begin.
“A decade ago, when the Cochin Chamber of Commerce and Industry celebrated its 150 anniversary a decision was taken to form a special purpose vehicle (SPV) for processing non-biodegradable waste. This decision further resulted in the constitution of CW2E,” said Jose Dominic, one of the directors of CW2E.
He said that this is a collaborated corporate social responsibility project. It is estimated that Kochi city generates 350 tonnes of waste a day. Of this, 70 tonnes of waste is non-biodegradable. The company will source waste from commercial establishments, manufacturing units and institutions such as shopping malls, hospitals, large residential complexes, coir manufacturing units, Cochin International Airport Ltd, Cochin Shipyard Ltd, Cochin Port and Kochi Metro Rail Ltd.
The director said that segregation of the waste was not necessary as their clients would do it at the source.
“However, CW2E plant will not collect municipal waste. We charge a fee for collecting waste, and the sale of electricity will be another source of revenue,” added Dominic.
He also said that the plant will use a proven technology and it will not result in pollution. The technology for the plant is developed by Kakkanad based-Team Sustain and a US-based partner.
The plant can process all types of non-biodegradable waste, including plastics and e-waste. “In the initial phase, we will not collect any hazardous waste,” said Dominic.
The total estimated cost of the project is Rs 16 crore.
“Of this, we have already invested Rs 9 crore,” said Dominic, adding that their clients have also contributed to the equity.
“Corporate citizens in the city can also contribute towards equity. This will be self-sustaining profitable venture,” he said.
Article Source: Times of India