Ecological and Economic Optimisation of Biogas Plants

Abstract

This research project provides guidelines for biogas operators, planners and manufacturers with tangible suggestions for improvements in ecology and economy. In order to achieve this, 10 biogas plants in Bavaria (Germany) with an electric capacity from 30 kWel to 560 kWel are thoroughly analysed and evaluated. Within this project, first a widespread data analysis is made. The analysis contains e.g. measuring the parasitic electric energy or detecting methane leaks. Also the operational log of the biogas plants is analysed with respect to feedstock, down times, labour times and maintenance. 3 The next step of this project is the evaluation of the generated data. For this purpose, key performance indicators are used to carry out a benchmark and error analysis. Knowing the problems of biogas plants, finally leads to the development of optimization concepts. Eight approaches are generated to improve the plants` ecology and economy. The project proves that ecology and economy can very well go together. By reducing methane emissions of biogas plants more biogas can be used in the CHP-Unit. This causes a better ecologic situation by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, less feedstock has to be put into the biogas plants while having the same output. Using less feedstock means less current costs.