<![CDATA[Purpose – This study evaluates the potential of municipal solid waste (MSW) as a renewable energy source through the implementation of a small-scale waste-to-energy (WtE) system in Medan City, Indonesia. Design/methodology/approach – Waste composition data from four representative districts were analyzed to determine waste characteristics, calorific value, and energy recovery. The assessment was conducted using a fixed-bed incinerator with air supply configuration and energy calculations. Findings –Results indicate that the average calorific value of municipal waste is approximately 2975 kcal/kg, meeting the minimum requirement for thermochemical conversion processes. Energy balance analysis shows that approximately 292.07 kg of dry waste can generate around 25.8 kWe of electrical power during 12 hours of operation. Research implications/limitations – The analysis is based on average municipal waste composition data and assumed energy conversion efficiencies for the fixed-bed incineration system. Actual performance may vary depending on waste characteristics, moisture content, operational conditions, and technology configuration. Future studies should incorporate pilot-scale validation, economic feasibility, and environmental impact to improve the accuracy and applicability of the proposed framework. Originality/value – This study provides a localized waste-to-energy assessment framework by integrating municipal waste characterization, calorific value estimation, thermal energy recovery, and electricity generation analysis for Medan City. The framework addresses the limited availability of city-specific evaluations for small-scale waste-to-energy implementation in developing urban areas.]]>
