The Current and Future Marketplace for Waste-To-Energy Cogeneration Facilities in the United States

Abstract

The emerging waste-to-energy marketplace within the United States is one with considerable opportunity and risk. The solid waste management crisis is resulting in record construction levels for waste-to-energy facilities due to the fact that few viable alternatives exist for waste disposal. However, opposition to the construction of such plants and cost overruns on new and existing facilities is having an impact on the market. While approximately 135 plants were operating at the end of 1987, it is believed that 425 plants and projects will be in existence by the end of 1996. Representing a total capacity of 260,000 tons per day, by 1996 over 36% of all municipal solid waste generated in the United States will be incinerated by waste-to-energy facilities. A considerable challenge faces all suppliers of products and services to the marketplace. Increasing opposition and escalating costs for such plants will place greater emphasis upon proper planning, design flexibility, and pollution control. Like any emerging industry, this business will evolve from its current unpredictable levels to a more mature and stable market opportunity for suppliers of products and services.