What is biogas?

Biogas is a mixture of gases including methane and carbon dioxide, as well as water vapour, nitrogen, oxygen, ammonia, hydrogen sulphide.  It is the product of anaerobic digestion.  It can be produced from animal slurry and other organic materials.  Microbes break down the organic matter in the so-called fermenter (heated and air tight) at temperatures between 35° und 55° C.

How does a biogas unit work?

The principle is simple.  The biogas is produced in the fermenter and is converted to electricity and heat using a combined heat and power (CHP) system.  Our latest developments enable the feeding of refined gas into the local public gas network.  The remaining material known as digestate can be used as a valuable fertiliser.  Because it is derived from renewable materials, the energy obtained makes a valuable contribution to active environmental protection. 

What is the Renewable Energy Law?

The Renewable Energy Law regulates the support of renewable energy in Germany.  It requires electricity network operators to purchase electricity offered from renewable resources and it sets a price for electricity from biogas.  The Law guarantees this return for biogas unit operators for 20 years.  

Ten good reasons for biogas

1. Biogas enables independence from oil and gas imports.
2. Biogas units produce heat as well as electricity.
3. Biogas units can heat buildings or water.
4. The economy of rural areas is improved.
5. Biogas digestate is a valuable fertiliser.
6. Biogas digestate can replace artificial fertilisers and protect water.
7. Biogas digestate is highly available as a fertiliser to crops and can even be used for top-dressing.
8. Biogas is environmentally friendly, good value and reliable.
9. Energy is produced from organic residues that would otherwise be wasted.
10. The fermentation process reduces the viability of weed seeds.