Feasibility of hybrid energy systems for environmental remediation: Transforming closed landfills into sustainable energy hubs

This article discusses an integrated operational arrangement for the remediation of the environmental impacts of landfills by implementing a hybrid electricity production system, which uses energy potential from municipal solid waste associated with solar energy (photovoltaics and thermal). This system composes a sustainable energy hub, which can provide numerous benefits in the recovery process of a closed landfill area. A case study is presented for the Jockey Clube landfill in Brazil, one of the largest landfill areas in Latin America, which was closed in 2018. Over 20 years of operation, the new hybrid plant is estimated to produce 2643 GWh of electricity and 964 GWh of heat from engine exhaust gases (529 ℃) and steam production. Additionally, it achieves a leachate load reduction of 500,000 m³ per year and decreases atmospheric emissions by 38.4 thousand tons CO₂eq. per year through clean energy production and methane combustion. By addressing both environmental remediation and energy generation concurrently, this study highlights the potential of hybrid systems to deliver both environmental and economic benefits. The findings underline the importance of innovative waste management strategies in transitioning toward a sustainable and low-carbon future within circular economy principles, directly contributing to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 7 (affordable and clean energy), 11 (sustainable cities and communities), and 13 (climate action). This study proposes a practical and replicable framework for converting environmental liabilities into productive assets, contributing to sustainable waste management and resource recovery.