IEA Bioenergy - Task 37: Integrated biogas systems
Location applications of anaerobic digestion towards integrated sustainable solutions
This report produced by IEA Bioenergy Task 37, addresses local applications of integrated biogas concepts. Through case studies, examples of technical solutions, concepts, and strategies, which pertain to sustainable biogas production, are provided. Data has been gathered on anaerobic digestion facilities from seven countries with a focus on developing countries or countries with an emerging biogas sector which are not dependent or have little reliance on, or recourse to, financial support. The case stories demonstrate that there is no ‘ideal’ integrated solution, as each anaerobic digestion application has different feedstocks available, constraints and end products. What needs to be considered and encouraged is adaption of exemplar systems, which suit individual situations. The following sections summarise the key findings, firstly in terms of the economic and environmental diversity of biogas plants across the globe. The report then addresses the challenges that are faced when implementing anaerobic digestion systems, leading to the local benefits that are realised when sustainable solutions are adhered to.