Evaluation of Landfill Gas Generation for Renewable Energy Utilization at Puuwatu Landfill, Kendari City, Indonesia

[Objective] Municipal solid waste management in Indonesia faces persistent structural challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, limited implementation of the 3R principle, and continued reliance on landfilling. These conditions are evident at the Puuwatu landfill in Kendari City, where the high organic waste fraction creates substantial potential for methane generation and greenhouse gas emissions. This study evaluates future methane emissions and assesses their potential for renewable energy recovery to support sustainable urban waste management.  [Methodology] Methane generation and landfill gas production were estimated using LandGEM 3.1 for the period 2002–2050 based on historical disposal records and projected municipal solid waste generation. The analysis also quantified methane emissions, electricity generation potential, household energy supply capacity, and the economic value of methane recovery through biogas conversion equivalent to LPG. [Results] Waste generation is projected to increase from 70,140 Mg in 2002 to 274,785 Mg in 2050, while landfill disposal will rise from 51,595 Mg to 202,132 Mg year⁻¹. The high biodegradable fraction (86%) drives LFG production from 1,793 Mg year⁻¹ in 2003 to 66,825 Mg year⁻¹ in 2051. Methane emissions are projected to increase from 479 to 17,847 Mg year⁻¹. Net electricity generation could reach approximately 55 million kWh by 2051, supplying about 9,677 households annually. Methane recovery could also generate approximately IDR 46.76 billion (USD 2.87 million).  [Conclusions] Landfill methane represents a valuable renewable energy resource. Its recovery can support urban energy diversification and climate mitigation. These findings highlight the need for technological innovation and supportive policies, particularly for medium-sized cities.