A landfill-based solar photovoltaic (PV) installation has been launched in Durban – using a waste site to generate electricity.
Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Narend Singh described this Dolphin Coast Landfill Management (DCLM) installation as “the continent’s first landfill-based solar plant” during the launch on June 12.
The project is a partnership between the South African Industrial Container Reconditioners Organisation, Veolia, eThekwini Municipality, DCLM and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
DCLM is a Durban-based hazardous waste treatment and disposal facility operated by Veolia. The company describes the site as a licensed Class A hazardous waste landfill for complex industrial waste streams. The site includes engineered landfill systems with multi-layer containment, leachate collection and management systems, and treatment and stabilisation of hazardous waste before disposal, according to Veolia.
“By harnessing clean solar energy on land traditionally associated with waste disposal, this project reimagines existing infrastructure as a catalyst for climate action and green development. It reduces carbon emissions, contributes to a more diversified and resilient energy mix and makes productive use of municipal land and a brownfield that would otherwise remain underutilised,” Singh said.
South Africa generates about 107 million tonnes of waste a year, he added, pointing out that landfill sites are under “extreme pressure”.
Singh referred to the role of the National Environmental Management: Waste Act in licensing landfill, recycling and treatment facilities. “The Waste Act presents opportunities to harvest greenhouse gas and turn it into biogas or electricity that may be used in households. This is very significant in our country as we face constrained electricity and energy security.”
