Energy from waste: sounds good, but in reality just a pipe dream.
'In its conclusion, the study finds that: “This review has shown that when appropriate system boundaries are applied, a pyrolysis plant for self-sustaining EfW is thermodynamically unproven, practically implausible, and environmentally unsound…
MSW pyrolysis cannot yet be considered as something which can sustainably provide energy for society…it is essential that proper energy balances are determined and in place at the outset, made possible by the first law of thermodynamics, and with a consideration of total plant energy and resource use. Furthermore, and in keeping with the historic pursuit of perpetual motion, it is imperative that the second law of thermodynamics is not simply ignored…”'
The article itself includes:
'This study has found that the status of energy use and efficiency awareness in the pyrolysis of waste sector is at best poor, and that the failures of previous plants are not merely teething troubles of a new industry but due to fundamentals flaws with the concept in general and how it is presented, seemingly based on bias towards the theoretical plausibility of a technological innovation. Such ignorance (whether simply lack of knowledge, blind optimism, or intentionally ‘turning a blind eye’), has recently been suggested as an explanation for why those promoting or supporting MSW pyrolysis systems receive subsidy rather than censure.'
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Incineration among stinky nasty renewable energy types in US