The aim of this work was to evaluate the advantages of different substrates used in a full-scale biogas plant situated in a farm in northern Italy, by considering their potential biogas production and their prices in the market during the year 2007. For feeding the considered biogas plant, substitution of EC with some BR and OW was proposed as an example for other similar applications. It was found that a variety of residual biomasses, such as various BRs, AMs, and OWs, can substitute for ECs in AD for the purpose of biogas production, and may thus facilitate future development of agrarian economy. Biogas plants at farm level are good candidates for treating organic residues of municipalities and the agro-industrial sector in a cost-effective way and for providing territorially diffused electric and thermal power.

For more information the full article can be found at http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/journal/03014797