Ministry of energy planning waste incineration plant at former sugar factory in Xanthi?
Despite earlier reports pointing to Komotini, the city's mayor suggests Xanthi is the more likely location for a major waste-to-energy facility.
Plans under review by the Ministry of Environment and Energy (YPEN) could see the construction of a large-scale waste incineration facility at the site of the former sugar factory in Xanthi, according to recent statements by local officials.
Although initial reports indicated that Komotini was the likely site for the facility intended to serve Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, as well as the North Aegean islands, Komotini’s mayor, Yiannis Garanis, cast doubt on those claims during an interview with "Radio Chronos 87.5 FM."
“It is not yet clear or finalized which area will be selected for the plant,” said Garanis. “The most likely location is in Xanthi, where the old sugar factory was located. There is existing infrastructure and a wastewater treatment plant already in place.”
The proposed incineration plant is one of six being considered nationwide under YPEN’s new waste management strategy. The goal is to improve waste processing, reduce landfill pressure, and align with European Union directives promoting energy recovery from mixed municipal waste.
A feasibility study commissioned by the Ministry outlines plans for a network of waste-to-energy units across Greece, with each plant positioned to effectively cover different geographic regions. The facility for Eastern Macedonia and Thrace and the North Aegean would process over 60,000 tons of waste annually.
Although concerns have been raised about potential environmental impacts, the Ministry has emphasized that all units will operate under strict EU environmental standards. Further environmental assessments are expected once the locations are finalized.
While the plan remains under consideration, Garanis reiterated that official decisions are still pending. “We know there will be six units in Greece, but the Ministry has not yet finalized all the locations that will be part of this process,” he said.
The issue is likely to spark further public debate, especially regarding environmental oversight and local impact.
