Biogas

Biogas is a renewable energy source typically made from farm waste which is converted to methane. The combustion of this gas for energy allows for a sustainable cyclical cycle to occur due to it being net-zero emissions. With the addition of a combined heat and power generation (CHP) it can be a source of both electricity and heat for residents. Can this solution be viable for Balgair's heating needs?

Methodology

For an in-depth view of how Biogas and a CHP unit were analyzed click blow

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Benefits

Efficiency: CHP systems utilize the heat produced during electricity generation, significantly boosting overall energy efficiency compared to separate generation methods.

Cost-Effective: Our financial modeling highlights a lower annual operating cost (£16,000/year) compared to other heating options.

Environmental Impact: The biogas CHP solution drastically reduces CO₂ emissions to approximately 1,720 kg/year, markedly lower than the current biomass and LPG system (19,860 kg/year).
Cogeneration: With a CHP unit both electricity and heat will be produced offsetting some of the costs and exporting any excess significantly reducing annual heating cost for residents

Local Economy Support: Utilizing locally sourced biogas supports local agriculture and creates a circular community.

Multi Criteria Decision Analysis

From the values found from our modelling and analysis of a Biogas CHP unit it scored very well compared to the current system. With a significantly lower operating cost due to the electricity cost offset by the CHP unit, and considerably lower annual emissions due to removing any reliance on LPG backup boilers

Considerations

These outputs however are highly dependent on the price and availability of biogas as there is only one local producer of biogas in the area currently. They are also highly dependent on the continuation of the subsidizing of biogas production which is what is resulting in the extremely low price of biogas. However a project like this can be an incentive for other farms to start producing biogas.

CHPs in Action in Scotland

Reliability was a key performance indicator for the viability of a system to be used to heat Balgiar, however as this was not quantifiable through modelling we chose to showcase some CHPs in action through out Scotland:

Strathclyde University, Glasgow:
- Fuel: Natural gas
- System Capacity: 3.3 MW electricity and 4.2 MW heat
- Impact: Reduces campus carbon emissions by approximately 4,500 tonnes annually, significantly cutting energy costs and enhancing sustainability targets.
Aberdeen Exhibition and Conference Centre (AECC):
- Fuel: Hydrogen fuel cells
- System Capacity: Produces 1.4 MW electricity
- Impact: Provides reliable, renewable electricity and heat, showcasing Scotland's innovation in hydrogen technology and significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Borders College, Galashiels:
- Fuel: Biomass
- System Impact: Significantly reduces annual carbon emissions by around 150 tonnes, demonstrating substantial savings on heating costs. The biomass source is locally sourced, improving the regional economy.
NHS Tayside, Dundee:
- Fuel: Biogas from wastewater treatment
- Impact: Converts waste gas into energy, significantly offsetting energy costs and reducing carbon footprint. This innovative application highlights the potential for circular economy principles in public sector facilities.