
There is significant potential in Ireland for the production of biogas from agricultural waste, which would allow for supplying the population with gas for domestic needs. The country’s developed animal husbandry sector is a rich source of organic raw materials.
It is advisable to implement mini-biogas plants at cattle (KRS) enterprises. For efficient heating and mixing of the substrate, it is proposed to use a “Mechanical Heat Pump,” capable of operating around the clock when wind is available. After filtration, the gas can be filled into cylinders for further sale.
Biogas plants can operate in mesophilic (\sim 35^\circ C) and thermophilic (\sim 50^\circ C) modes, which are easily maintained by the “Mechanical Heat Pump.”
With a biogas yield from cattle manure of 39 to 65 m³ per tonne, which is equivalent to 234-390 kWh of energy, the potential profit from one tonne of waste can range from €80 to €134 (based on the current price of bottled gas at €0.345 per kWh).
Considering that one cow produces an average of 50 kg of manure per day, even a small farm with 20 head of cattle can generate a daily income of €80, and an annual income can reach €29,200 – €49,110. The payback period for the equipment is estimated at approximately one year, after which a net profit will be secured for 25 years.
Thus, the implementation of biogas plants in conjunction with a “Mechanical Heat Pump” will allow for the efficient use of waste to produce biogas and high-quality organic fertilizers.