Biogas plants



What is a biogas plant?

An agricultural biogas plant is an installation designed to produce biogas through the anaerobic fermentation of organic biomass. Subsequently, this biogas is used for the generation of electrical and thermal energy through integrated combustion. The use of biogas for energy purposes not only has economic benefits but also leads to a reduction in the consumption of non-renewable resources such as coal, oil, and gas used for energy production. During the anaerobic fermentation process, a valuable byproduct called fermentation residue is also produced, which is used as a valuable fertilizer.

Process Overview:

A portion of solid biomass is daily crushed and mixed with liquid (e.g., manure, post-fermentation liquid) and pumped into fermentation tanks. Fermentation occurs in these tanks, during which biogas is generated and collected under a pressurized membrane maintaining a specific pressure. The biomass remains in the fermenter for approximately 30-60 days (retention time), depending on the type of biomass and the fermentation method. Biogas is purified and subjected to combustion in a cogeneration system, where it powers an engine to generate electrical energy. Heat from the process is recovered. The generated electrical energy is sold, and the heat can be used to heat fermentation tanks (25-50% of produced heat) or for other purposes. The post-fermentation liquid, collected daily, can be reused by mixing it with biomass or used as a nutrient-rich natural fertilizer.