Anaerobic Digestion

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is, simply put, the naturally occurring breakdown of organic materials by microorganisms when oxygen is not present. During this process, methane gas is created. An anaerobic digester is a man-made system that allows this process to happen more quickly and captures the methane that is released. This gas can be utilized to create heat and power. Animal waste, as well as food waste and municipal solid waste, can be used as feedstocks.

The primary advantages of AD are the production of methane rich biogas that can offset energy costs, as well as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, mitigating odor and providing effective nutrient management. When an AD project is successful, the system needs very little maintenance and generates revenues or offsets expenses for the facility. AD technology is typically seen in large scale agricultural projects that aim to include both heat and power, but smaller projects can be successful in producing local heat for the farm. The net economics of applying large AD projects varies dramatically based on geography, electrical rates and usage, facility size, and utility cooperation with buy-back programs.

Anaerobic Digestion Program
The Governor's Energy Office (GEO) Anaerobic Digestion Program saw successful participation for the 2009 program year and is currently being updated. You can expect to see American Recovery and Reinvestment Act financial support for utility and commercial-scale AD projects. The GEO will post more information here when available.

In the meantime, sign up to receive the GEO's Newsletter for program announcements.

Top of Page