What does 'Energy-from-waste (EfW)' mean?

« Back to Financial Terms Index

Energy-from-waste (EfW) is a term used to describe a process that involves recovering energy from the thermal treatment of waste. EfW is a type of waste-to-energy (WtE) technology that involves using heat generated from the combustion of waste materials to produce electricity or heat for industrial processes.

The EfW process begins with the collection and sorting of waste materials. These materials are then transported to an EfW facility, where they are processed and burned at high temperatures in a specially designed furnace known as an incinerator. As the waste materials are burned, heat is generated, which is then used to produce steam. The steam is directed through a turbine, which drives a generator, producing electricity that can be fed into the national grid.

In addition to generating electricity, EfW can also be used to produce heat for industrial processes. The heat generated during the incineration process can be captured and used to heat water or other fluids, which can then be used to heat buildings or provide process heat for industrial applications.

EfW is considered to be a sustainable way of producing energy because it helps to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, which in turn reduces greenhouse gas emissions and the environmental impact of waste disposal. However, it is important to note that EfW should not be seen as a replacement for recycling and waste reduction efforts, but rather as a complementary technology that can help to divert non-recyclable waste from landfill and recover energy from it.

« Back to Financial Terms Index