Electricity production through virtually zero-emission waste combustion, a method adopted in Denmark, is one of a number of options being examined by the Greek power utility PPC as part of the country’s decarbonized future.

PPC’s existing coal generators, headed for closure, imminently, could be transformed into waste-to-energy plants.

PPC has received proposals from Chinese companies. Cost and environmental matters will be key factors in any decisions made by Greek officials.

Joint ventures could be formed to utilize the output of waste management PPPs (Public Private Partnerships) in Greece. Three such facilities currently exist in the country but more are expected to open in the near future.

The positions of local communities in lignite-dependent regions, such as west Macedonia, in the country’s north, and the price of waste-generated electricity will be pivotal.

Denmark’s Copenhill waste-to-energy plant, possibly the world’s most advanced such facility, was launched last month. It is situated in the heart of Copenhagen.

Designed as a lush downhill slope to host skiing and other recreational activities, the Copenhill facility processes the waste of 550,000 homes and 45,000 businesses, providing electricity and heating for 150,000 homes. The unit is designed to take in approximately 400,000 tons of waste annually for combustion.