Study of alternative energy technologies in Puerto Rico using a waste reduction scheme as the energy source: Fuel cells and gas generators

Puerto Rico's developing economy is constrained in part by electric power needs of the existing generating system. New technologies that reduce dependence on imported oil must be developed. These technologies should focus on energy sources that produce electrical energy in an economical and environmentally safe way.; In this study we analyzed a waste reduction scheme for alternative to produce electrical energy in an advantageous way for the island. Municipal solid waste and sludge from wastewater primary treatment plants will be reduced and the process will produce gaseous methane that will power the alternative technologies.; The alternative energy technologies that we've studied were fuel cells and gas generators. The sources of energy analyzed were a waste-to-energy source that will use anaerobic digestion to reduce waste and produce methane and natural gas.; It was determined that gas generator was the more appropriate energy technology and methane was chosen to be the energy source to power it. These alternate energy source and technology represents a new approach to dependable sources of renewable energy.