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Energy management

Secure Incineration of Illicit Cigarettes Generates Renewable Energy in Sri Lanka

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Sri Lanka's efforts to combat illicit trade in cigarettes took a significant step forward as two large consignments of seized cigarettes were destroyed using advanced waste-to-energy technology at Western Power Company Ltd.'s power plant in Kerawalapitiya. The joint initiative with Sri Lanka Customs and Ceylon Tobacco Company aimed to prevent the re-entry of these illicit goods into the market while contributing to renewable energy production. The process not only generated over 5,684 kilowatt-hours of electricity but also highlighted the importance of sustainable waste management in the country.

Key Takeaways:

  • The first consignment of 1,680 kilograms of illicit cigarettes contained an estimated 2 million cigarette sticks, with a potential market value of Rs. 274 million, and generated 714 kilowatt-hours of electricity.
  • The second consignment of 7,260 kilograms of illicit cigarettes included approximately 5.5 million cigarette sticks, with an estimated market value of Rs. 852 million, and generated 2870 kilowatt-hours of electricity.
  • Western Power Company Ltd.'s Waste-to-Energy plant has been converting non-recyclable waste into clean energy since its official launch four years ago.
  • The 10 MW facility contributes electricity to the national grid, enough to power approximately 100,000 households.
  • The plant has played a crucial role in responsible waste management and prevented harmful substances from entering the environment.
  • Aitken Spence Power Sector Managing Director Leel Wickremarachchi emphasized the company's commitment to supporting national efforts in curbing illegal trade and upholding environmental and regulatory standards in Sri Lanka.

Statistics:

  • 2,000,000 cigarette sticks were destroyed in the first consignment.
  • Rs. 274 million is the estimated market value of the first consignment of illicit cigarettes.
  • 432,000,000 is the total estimated market value of the two illicit cigarette consignments (Rs. 274 million + Rs. 852 million).
  • 714 kilowatt-hours of electricity was generated from the first consignment.
  • 5,684 kilowatt-hours of electricity was generated from both consignments (714 kilowatt-hours + 2870 kilowatt-hours).
  • 100,000 households can be powered by the electricity generated by the Western Power Company Ltd.'s plant.
  • 4 years is the length of time the Waste-to-Energy plant has been operational.
  • 10 MW is the capacity of the Western Power Company Ltd.'s Waste-to-Energy plant.

Sources:

  • Sri Lanka Customs and Ceylon Tobacco Company PLC (no specific date)
  • Western Power Company Ltd. (no specific date)
  • Aitken Spence PLC (no specific date)

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