LOCAL firm, Pragma Leaf Consulting, plans to collect an estimated 325 tonnes of waste generated in Bulawayo daily and convert it to generate bio-diesel and 2,2 megawatts (MW) of electricity, while creating 2 000 jobs at a cost of $68 million.
by Nqobile Bhebhe
According to a council report, the company will need a waste lease of 25 to 30 years.
“They, therefore, intended to establish a $68 million waste to energy plant producing 110 000 litres of bio-diesel, 2,2 MW electricity and creating an employment for 120 plant operatives and further jobs in downstream industries,” part of the report reads.
Pragma Leaf Consulting also intends to bring additional refuse removal compactors to help improve waste collection.
Council said the firm had completed the study and results had indicated that waste generated in Bulawayo was sufficient for the establishment of a waste-to-energy plant.
Last year, the municipal management committee, an interdepartmental committee on investment proposals, met with the project promoters, where a detailed presentation of the results was made.
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It was noted that at least 2 000 jobs would be created, including colourful pushcart refuse collectors, processors, sorters and some 120 or so professionals.
By-products (slag) would be used for the manufacture of concrete blocks or on road construction. The project will convert waste to energy and distil diesel which council would have first option to purchase at $2 per gallon or 0,50c per litre.
The chamber secretary’s department supported the project, saying: “Capital investment of $68 million is quite high as indicated in the summary. This should remove doubt from some members that the project is likely to fail due to lack of funding.”
