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.

What is the Anaerobic Digester for Energy Usage Project?
The Governor’s Energy Office (GEO) understands that the first step to a successful AD project is a thorough feasibility study. As a result, GEO will partner with facilities or farm owners and anaerobic digester experts in supporting the costs of a feasibility study. The intention of this program is not for GEO to incur the total costs of the feasibility study, but rather share a percentage of the expense with other entities.

The feasibility study will include a site visit from a technical consultant to assess the potential of the project site. This expert will review the site layout, number of animals involved in the project, manure management systems, and local energy infrastructure. After the site visit is completed, the expert will review the energy costs of the farm, local regulations; economic costs of the project, as well as identify potential barriers. Once this has been completed, the final feasibility study data is presented to all stakeholders for their review.

If the feasibility study indicates a likelihood of success for the project, GEO will continue to explore ways in which support can be given. GEO support may be in the form of project implementation funding, leveraging outside fiscal support or technical advice.

Learn more about an AD project in Colorado by reading about the Colorado Pork project.

Want to let GEO know about your AD project?
If you are interested in working with GEO on an AD Feasibility of your site please submit the program interest form found on the GEO funding opportunities page.