A Chennai Corporation bio-methanation plant, the first to set up by the civic body, is expected to be completed by December.
The Rs. 45-lakh plant is coming up at the Pulianthope garbage transfer station. The technology is from the Baba Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai.
J. Daniel Chellappa, senior scientist, technical coordination wing, BARC, Chennai, explained that the plant can process two tonnes of garbage per day.
The energy released by it, equivalent to four gas cylinders, can power about 80-100 LED streetlights for eight hours.
About 100-120 kg of natural manure will also be generated as a by-product.
Food waste, kitchen waste including vegetable peels, abattoir waste, flower and fruit waste and agro waste can be digested by this plant.
Sources in the Corporation said the plant was being constructed on a pilot basis.
“The power produced from this plant would be used to light up streetlights in the vicinity. We are also encouraging hotels and restaurants to set up similar plants since they are likely to generate more food waste. Some restaurants may generate up to 80 per cent food waste. But the average is around 30 per cent,” an official said.
The Corporation is planning to construct a plant in each of its 15 zones so that food and green waste collected from neighbouring areas can be optimally used.
BARC will also provide training to those who will operate the plant and additionally, be associated with the project for a period of one year, officials said.
