What is Biogas?
Biogas is one of the most reliable renewable energy sources available today. It is one of the by-products generated from Anaerobic Digestion and contains a mixture of methane, carbon dioxide, and other impurities. Biogas can be used to produce renewable heat, electricity and fuel. By removing the carbon dioxide and other impurities, biogas can also be upgraded to Renewable Natural Gas (RNG), which has a lower carbon intensity compared to natural gas and can be injected into the natural gas grid. Natural Gas can be fed and stored in the local grid to be used when needed for transportation or residential, industrial, commercial and institutional heating.
Biogas provides many advantages. It is a biogenic form of energy, available at any time and promotes energy independence. Electricity from biogas contributes to baseload stability, because the energy can be generated continuously, regardless of the weather conditions and time of day.
PlanET has effectively supplied Biogas technology in North America for over 15 years.
What is a Biogas Plant?
A Biogas Plant, or Anaerobic Digestion (AD) facility, is an installation designed to produce biogas through the fermentation, or anaerobic digestion of organic materials. Biogas is a renewable energy source primarily composed of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2), with trace amounts of other gases. It is produced by microorganisms breaking down organic matter in the absence of oxygen.
Biogas Plants provide environmentally friendly energy while improving value chains in the agricultural, industrial and energy sectors. In addition, digestate from ADs is an excellent natural fertilizer.
With a track record of over 650 successfully designed, constructed, and serviced AD systems in the global market, we are well-equipped to support your next project.
How does a Biogas Plant work?
Feedstock Collection
The first step in the biogas production process is to collect and prepare organic materials, known as feedstock. Common feedstocks include animal manure, agricultural residues, food waste, and wastewater sludge.
Anaerobic Digestion
The feedstock is placed in a digester, which is made of either concrete or steel and is designed to maintain anaerobic (oxygen-free) conditions. Inside the digester, microorganisms break down the organic matter in a controlled environment through a series of biological reactions. These bacteria convert complex organic molecules into biogas, primarily methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2).
Gas Collection and Storage
Biogas is collected from the digester and stored in a gas storage tank. It can be used as a source of energy for various applications.
What can biogas be used for?
Biogas is a versatile renewable energy source that can be used for many applications. Some of the most common uses of biogas we have seen in North America are:
- Electricity Generation
- Injection into the Natural Gas Grid (RNG)
- Fuel for Vehicles
- Greenhouse and Industrial Heating
- Industrial Processes
- Microgrid and Remote Power
- Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions
PlanET provides expert guidance, technology and support to ensure project and operational success.
