Astra Energy and Powertron Global, two US-based proponents of clean energy, have recently united to create a joint venture that will specialize in the development of waste-to-energy initiatives throughout Africa. This strategic alliance seeks to confront the escalating waste management issue on the continent and simultaneously offer a renewable energy source.
Astra Energy’s existing involvement in Africa is notable, with ongoing projects that showcase the company’s commitment to the region. A striking example comes from Zanzibar, Tanzania, where Astra Energy has secured arrangements to transform daily municipal waste of 300 tons into 50 megawatts (MW) of electricity, which will serve Unguja, the predominant urban area on the island.
Furthermore, in Lesotho, Astra Energy is progressing toward actualizing a 100 MW venture that integrates waste-to-energy technologies.
Under the terms of the new joint enterprise, Astra Energy will supply its waste-to-energy technology, valued at an estimated $5 million, thereby securing a 40% share in the venture. The focus will primarily be on bolstering Astra’s projects scattered across Eastern and Southern Africa.
Commenting on the scope and impact of the collaboration, Astra Energy highlighted the multifaceted benefits: “This initiative will provide a practical solution to waste management, offer additional renewable energy sources, bolster the dependability of electricity supply—vital for fostering economic advancement—and considerably reduce carbon emissions.”
The urgency for such innovative solutions is underscored by the waste generation statistics in sub-Saharan Africa elaborated by Carlito Baltazar Tabelin, an Australian academic. His research indicates a dramatic surge in waste generation within the region, doubling from 2012 to 2016, with predictions for continued growth by 2030. Adding to the urgency is the inadequate waste collection infrastructure, with only about 44% coverage for municipal solid waste collection witnessed in 2018 across sub-Saharan Africa.
Beyond the primary benefit of supplying clean energy, waste-to-energy facilities offer added incentives for improving waste collection systems and relieve the growing strain on landfills—such as the Kibele landfill in Zanzibar, which currently absorbs upward of 120 tons of refuse each day.
This pioneering partnership between Astra Energy and Powertron Global represents a significant stride toward addressing Africa’s pressing waste-related challenges and fortifying the continent’s clean energy landscape.
