Analysis of co-pyrolysis on Samsø

Ea Energy Analyses has carried out an investigation of the life cycle perspective and the economy of a potential pyrolysis plant on Samsø.

Samsø Municipality works to handle waste collected in the municipality, along with residue from water treatment plants, in the most environmentally friendly way, preferably locally on the island. Today a lot is transported to the mainland for further treatment, so the municipality wanted an assessment of the possibilities of establishing a pyrolysis plant as an alternative.

In the analysis, three different options for pyrolysis plants were investigated and compared to a reference.

The three options were

1. A small plant, where the various municipal waste bits are pre-treated and pyrolyzed,
2. A larger plant, where 6000 ton of surplus straw is mixed in,
3. A larger plant, where 6000 ton of straw commercially bought is mixed in.

The result of the analysis shows there are challenges with the economy. Although, option 1 did show the most promise with the chosen prerequisites. If investment and running costs are reduced and the carbon credits have a higher price, option 2 could also be feasible.

A number of recommendations for the ongoing process were also given, including an investigation of the heavy metal contents of the waste, the value of carbon credits and the options for subsidies, which are both a decisive part of the economy, the cost of plants and straw, and screening for potential placements.

The project ran from April to October 2024, and the report can be downloaded on this page.