Municipal Solid Waste as a Renewable Energy Source: Evaluating the Potential for Sustainable Electricity Generation in the Minas Gerais Region in Brazil

Valorization of municipal solid waste (MSW) for energy represents a strategic alternative for developing countries, as it mitigates emissions, reduces pressure on landfills, and diversifies the electricity matrix. This study quantified the potential for electricity generation from MSW in the Jequitinhonha Valley, Minas Gerais, Brazil, using primary gravimetric characterization data, a method rarely employed in tropical areas. The identified composition showed a predominance of the organic fraction (47.6–73.3%), confirming the relevance of biological routes. The results indicated a consolidated potential of 106,640 MWh·year−1, of which 94.7% was from biogas recovery and 5.3% from incineration. Almenara, one of the three locations analyzed, showed the highest potential (48,200 MWh·year−1), followed by Diamantina (34,540 MWh·year−1) and Capelinha (23,900 MWh·year−1). The specific yields ranged from 0.33 to 0.53 MWh·ton−1 MSW and the per capita indicators from 1.01 to 1.49 MWh·cap−1·year−1. The climate mitigation potential reached 1.0 Mt of CO2eq·year−1. It is concluded that valorization in the Jequitinhonha Valley should prioritize biogas recovery, complemented by the incineration of rejects. The materialization of this potential requires advancements in infrastructure, selective collection, and socio-productive inclusion. This study provides evidence for public policies and contributes to the literature by demonstrating that valorization can boost energy transition and socio-environmental equity in developing tropical regions.