Agricultural biogas production: A regional comparison of technical parameters. (February 2021) - Stürmer, B.
Abstract: Since the 2000s, renewable energy production has been increased throughout Europe. Biogas plants should also contribute to the reduction in CO2 emissions. However, developments in numbers of biogas plants and management varied in individual countries and regions. In order to illustrate these different developments, the legal framework conditions for three countries (Switzerland, Germany and Austria) are discussed and linked to the findings gathered by biogas working groups active in the regions. The working groups collected data in order to create benchmarks for the biogas plant operators. Based on these, plant operators can obtain important information for the further development of their business. Comparison of the selected regions shows that the legal framework conditions influenced the structure of the biogas sector as well as the plants' technical performance indicators. At the same time, the biogas plants' operation mode also reflects regional structures and historical developments. Further evolvement of the biogas sector does not only concern operators. If further development is stalled due to the legal framework conditions in place, green power production from biogas plants is expected to decline in the mid-term. Subsequently, this means a decreasing share of renewable energy sources, which in turn counteracts climate protection targets. Highlights: Extensive data surveys of biogas production in three countries were analysed. The motivation for investing in the industry branch biogas is described. Legal frameworks and regional structures influence operation modes of biogas plants.