CO₂ capture for waste-to-energy plants

Waste-to-energy plant operators can accelerate decarbonisation with advanced CO₂ capture solutions from GEA Group. Leveraging its expertise in flue gas cleaning, heat recovery and process integration, GEA delivers a comprehensive portfolio designed to cut emissions, improve efficiency and maintain high plant reliability.

By integrating CO₂ capture into waste-to-energy operations, plants can move beyond standard emissions reduction towards climate-positive performance — particularly when biogenic CO₂ is captured and reused or stored. This approach supports circular, low-carbon value chains and aligns with tightening environmental regulations across Europe.

As part of a series of tests, the carbon capture pilot plant was connected to the Infraserv Höchst sewage sludge incineration plant (SSI), one of the largest and most modern facilities of its kind in Germany. (Photo: ©Infraserv GmbH & Co. Höchst KG, 2025)

Waste-to-energy flue gases present challenges due to fluctuating composition and impurities. GEA addresses this with fully integrated systems that combine flue gas pretreatment, energy-efficient CO₂ capture and optimised heat recovery. By reusing process waste heat, the technology significantly reduces the energy required for solvent regeneration, lowering operating costs while achieving high capture rates.

GEA’s solutions are proven under real-world conditions. Pilot projects connected to thermal treatment plants — including sewage sludge incineration and alternative fuel combustion — have demonstrated stable performance and high efficiency. A mobile pilot plant deployed in Belgium has further validated the technology, providing critical data on energy consumption, capture rates and long-term stability.

From feasibility studies to full-scale implementation, GEA supports operators throughout the entire project lifecycle. Its modular and scalable systems enable low-risk adoption of CO₂ capture, helping to future-proof waste-to-energy facilities.

“Energy from waste is essential for sustainable waste management and reliable power supply,” says Dr Felix Ortloff of GEA. “Our CO₂ capture solutions help operators significantly reduce their carbon footprint while continuing to deliver energy to communities.”