Incineration, Gasification, or Pyrolysis? Choosing the Right WtE Path in Thailand

Thailand is on the cusp of a significant transformation in its waste management strategy. With an increasing emphasis on sustainability and reducing landfill waste, the country is turning to waste-to-energy (WtE) technologies. This blog post explores the three prominent WtE technologies in Thailand: incineration, gasification, and pyrolysis. We will provide a framework for decision-making based on local context and case studies, guiding potential investors and stakeholders in choosing the most suitable waste management technology.

The Landscape of WtE in Thailand

Thailand's WtE build-out is gaining momentum, particularly in urban areas such as Bangkok. The Metropolitan Electricity Authority has launched several initiatives to enhance waste processing capabilities, focusing on reducing dependency on landfills. As Bangkok expands its municipal plants, like the ones in Nong Khaem and On Nut, the government aims to construct two new WtE plants by the end of 2026, each designed to handle approximately 500 tons of waste daily.

Overview of a Waste-to-Energy plant in Thailand

The national waste management scenario emphasizes high volumes of municipal solid waste (MSW) coupled with inconsistent sorting practices and frequent improper disposal. This combination has sparked interest in WtE programs and better pre-treatment options, such as refuse-derived fuel (RDF). Thailand's ambitious circular economy initiatives, particularly through the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT), are laying the groundwork for clean and sustainable energy, enhancing governance and investment signals for WtE developers.

Understanding Waste-to-Energy Technologies

As Thailand considers different waste-to-energy technologies, it's crucial to understand the three primary methods: incineration, gasification, and pyrolysis. Each technology has its unique advantages, constraints, and ideal applications.

1. Mass-burn Incineration

Best For: Mixed MSW with limited source separation.

Mass-burn incineration operates effectively in Thailand's context due to its ability to process high-moisture, mixed waste streams. This technology generates steam power and has established grid power purchase agreements (PPAs), making it a popular choice for municipal plants.

Proven models for mass-burn incineration in Thailand include the long-running Phuket WtE plant and Bangkok's Nong Khaem facility, both of which have demonstrated reliability and efficiency. Recent projects, such as the TPIPP RDF, have shown improvements in performance metrics, achieving higher steam parameters while maintaining emissions within regulatory limits.

Mass-burn incinerator with steam emissions

However, this option comes with trade-offs, such as larger capital expenditure and stringent management of odor, dust, and leachate. Public engagement and community support are vital, especially in urban settings.

2. Gasification

Best For: Pre-sorted industrial or municipal waste converted into RDF.

Gasification involves converting waste into syngas, which can be utilized for energy production or chemical feeds. It typically requires a more stable, pre-sorted waste stream, making it well-suited for industrial estates that can implement sorting and preparation under private governance.

Local initiatives, like the Gulf Industrial WtE program co-financed by the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), illustrate the bankability of this model. The initiative aims to develop multiple plants while adhering to standardized environmental and social plans.

While gasification offers higher potential efficiency compared to mass-burn, it requires meticulous quality assurance, consistent low heating values (LHV), and sophisticated gas treatment processes.

3. Pyrolysis

Best For: End-of-life tires (ELT) and specific plastics.

Pyrolysis is an innovative method particularly useful for recycling tires and certain plastics. It generates various by-products such as tire pyrolysis oil (TPO), recovered carbon black (rCB), and syngas, thereby fitting into circular supply chains efficiently.

A notable example of this technology in action is the collaborative investment by Marubeni and GRE, which has established a supply chain for tire-grade rCB/TPO. They have effectively integrated collection through partners like B-Quik, enhancing the market for these valuable products.

Nevertheless, pyrolysis presents challenges, including narrower feedstock acceptance and the critical need for quality assurance and off-take contracts to ensure profitability and sustainability.

Pyrolysis plant converting tires into fuel

A Practical Selection Framework for WtE

To navigate these technology options, a structured selection framework can help stakeholders make informed decisions. Here's a practical guide:

1. Assess Feedstock Reality

Understanding the variability and characteristics of waste feedstock is crucial. If your waste is mixed MSW with unpredictable moisture levels, mass-burn incineration or RDF production might be suitable. Conversely, if you have pre-sorted industrial waste, gasification may align better with your needs. For targeted streams like ELT and plastics, pyrolysis is ideal.

2. Siting Considerations

The location of your WtE plant also plays a significant role in technology selection. Municipal plants encourage greater environmental, social, and governance (ESG) visibility, but they typically require heavier licensing and community engagement. On the other hand, industrial estates like those in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) offer quicker utility integration and structured governance, making them favorable for industrial waste processing.

3. Evaluate Utilities and Grid Dynamics

It's essential to examine the power grid and steam balance, considering operational loads like fans and flue-gas treatment. High-parameter boilers, as exemplified by the TPIPP project, can enhance overall efficiency, depending on the nature of your feedstock.

4. Permitting and Environmental Standards

Map out the necessary environmental and industrial approvals early in the project cycle. Align your operational needs with lender requirements using templates set by institutions like AIIB and ADB to ensure smooth financing and execution.

5. Off-take and Financial Planning

Understanding off-take agreements and financial viability is critical. Municipal WtE projects typically look towards grid PPAs, whereas industrial projects may target contracts with the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), ensuring a continuous energy supply.

Local Case Studies for Decision-Making

Several ongoing projects in Thailand can serve as reference points for stakeholders exploring WtE technologies:

• Bangkok (Nong Khaem & On Nut): Two plants targeting a combined capacity of ~500 tons/day are expected to reduce landfill dependency significantly. Completion is set for 2026 under long-term concession agreements.

  
  

• Phuket WtE: This long-running municipal incineration facility boasts approximately 14 MW of capacity. The operational experience offers valuable lessons about sorting and combustion efficiency.

  
  

• TPIPP RDF Project: This project sets a benchmark in ultra-high parameters for waste incineration with successful trial runs that meet EU emission regulations.

  
  

• CCE (WHA CIE1): Featuring an 8.6 MW industrial WtE plant within an estate, this showcases utilities integration and governance strengths.

  
  

• Marubeni × GRE ELT Pyrolysis: This project exemplifies a robust supply chain for tire processing, offering a model for future pyrolysis endeavors targeting specific waste streams.

  
  

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

When implementing WtE projects, it is critical to sidestep several common pitfalls:

• Underestimating Feedstock Variability: Ensure a consistent feedstock quality through RDF production or strict acceptance criteria before committing to advanced technologies.

  
  

• Permit Delays: Pre-agree on necessary controls for odor, dust, and leachate management. Having a clear playbook can mitigate bureaucratic hurdles.

  
  

• Grid Connection Delays: Secure power purchase agreements early to avoid future interruptions in project financing. Align documentation with AIIB/ADB standards for lender diligence.

  
  

• QA Gaps in Pyrolysis: Establish strong quality assurance linkages to meet market expectations. Securing purification partnerships and robust off-take contracts can ensure product marketability.

  
  

For comprehensive support, consider reaching out to experienced consultants who can assist in conducting technology fit studies, feedstock quality assurance, utility assessments, and facilitating the necessary permits and agreements.

This detailed exploration of WtE technologies in Thailand aims to equip stakeholders with practical insights for making informed decisions that align with the country's sustainable development goals while addressing its waste management challenges.