Rare commercial project: Turning rubbish, human waste into electricity
A US company has signed a preliminary agreement to invest $1.175 billion (€864 million) in Iran, in a rare joint commercial project to turn rubbish and human waste into electricity.
California-based World Eco Energy told AFP it plans to produce 250 megawatts daily by burning trash and by processing algae and salt and waste water into power.
Iran will match the US investment, the company said.
A company spokesperson said the project, in the southwestern province of Chaharmahal-Bakhtiari, would create 600-700 jobs, 80% of which would go to locals.
It is scheduled to start in September 2014 and is an early indication of the foreign business that may flow back to Iran if United States, European and UN sanctions are lifted.
Iran is in its final phase of negotiating with the world powers about a conclusive deal to resolve international concern about its nuclear programme.
Despite the uncertainty that clouds Iran’s economy, still shut out of the international financial system because of an embargo on banks and the energy sector, a more positive outlook is starting to prevail.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 6th, 2014.
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@Dr. Nasrullah Gill:
You are right...similarly Pak -Iran project was in the interest of pakistan.Why did US opposed it? What do you mean...US has the right to safeguard its interest but others are not? What is this...is not it BULLYING and double standard?
@ Dr. Siddiqi; well gentlemen we should understand the fact that US is doing what they think is in the interest of their countory.In the international scenario there are no principals like foe or friend. This is pure game of interest.Go ahead if you have such might, we should not blame/criticize others
@Dr. Saleem Siddiqi: This "proposal" is contingent on Iran reaching a deal with the USA where the existing sanctions are removed ... that opens up the door for USA and anyone else doing normal business with Iran - including the IP.
@Dr. Saleem Siddiqi: The project will come to Iran only and only after the economic sanction is lifted .
@ Dr.Saleem Siddiqi
Another name for this is international "bhatta" (protection money).
@Dr. Saleem Siddiqi: "US is actively investing for profits in Iran but when matters come for Iran and Pakistan Gas Pipeline, US oppose it vehemently on the pretext of UN Sanctions. What a double policy."
It would be quite interesting to learn about the difference in terms and conditions which Pakistan respectively Iran want to be fulfilled for the deals to go through.
India and Pakistan need this the most. With their overcrowded population mostly poor people but who produce mega tons of stool and urine every day, electricity/biogas can be obtained free if this waste is efficiently converted using the right technology.