Are MSW-fired plants Renewable Power?
Opinions vary on this. The United States does not yet have statutes or regulations that define MSW as a renewable, although the US Environmental Protection Agency does say that “Because no new fuel sources are used other than the waste that would otherwise be sent to landfills, MSW is often considered a renewable power source.” Other national governments do have statutes or regulations that define the organic (biomass) fraction of MSW as renewable. The view that the 72% biomass fraction is more relevant than the plastics, metals, glass, and other miscellaneous components is gaining in official recognition.
