In the town of Hernando, located in the province of Córdoba, began operating the first biogas system based on pig manure not only in Argentina but throughout South America. This innovative technology takes advantage of organic waste from pigs to generate clean energy, standing out as a viable, ecological and productive model with multiple benefits.
What is biogas?
El biogas It is a renewable fuel obtained through the anaerobic (oxygen-free) decomposition of organic matter, such as animal excrement, agricultural waste or agro-industrial waste. This process is carried out by bacteria that, during the digestion of these materials, generate a gas composed mainly of methane (CH4) y carbon dioxide (CO2)Biogas can be used to generate electricity, heat facilities or even as fuel for vehicles.
In the case of Hernando, pig manure is the main organic input used in the biodigester, leading not only to the generation of gas, but also to the production of high-quality organic fertilizers and a considerable reduction in polluting emissions generated by agricultural activity.
Operation of the biogas system in Hernando
The biogas system in the town of Hernando consists of microturbines which are installed individually. These microturbines not only generate electricity for the pig farm, but the surplus is fed into the public grid, which in this town is managed by a cooperative. This decentralized approach allows farmers not only to cover their energy needs, but to monetize the surplus.
The operation of the system is relatively simple, the organic waste The waste produced by pigs is collected and taken to a biodigester or pool where bacteria are responsible for breaking down the waste, producing biogas. This biogas is taken to a small plant where it can be used for two main purposes:
- Generation of electricity, using a microturbine to convert the thermal energy of biogas into electrical energy.
- gas distributionBiogas can be piped for use in cooking, water heating or space heating in nearby facilities.
This system also generates a high-quality organic fertilizer as a by-product that can be used on local crops, closing the sustainability cycle. Furthermore, the system's operation allows for remote operation, either via the Internet or through satellite controls, which guarantees greater operability even from a distance.
Advantages of biogas system
The use of biogas based on pig manure offers multiple advantages, both environmental and economic. The most notable ones are listed below:
- Recycling waste: Treating animal waste prevents it from accumulating in piles or lagoons, where it could generate uncontrolled methane emissions.
- Clean energy production: Biogas is a renewable source of energy that reduces dependence on fossil fuels.
- Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions: Biogas captures and uses methane before it is released into the environment, significantly reducing emissions of this greenhouse gas.
- Generation of organic fertilizers: The digestate produced after the fermentation process contains nutrients that can be used in agriculture.
- Cogeneration and trigeneration: The biogas systems installed in Hernando allow both the cogeneration of electricity and heat, as well as trigeneration, which adds the possibility of generating cold, thus covering various energy needs.
Another notable advantage of biogas systems is their adaptability. They can be installed in a variety of agricultural and livestock establishments, and even in industrial facilities, depending solely on the type and quantity of organic waste used as the main input.
Environmental and economic considerations
At an environmental level, biogas is one of the most effective tools for meeting emissions reduction targets, as it transforms waste into usable energy, preventing the uncontrolled release of greenhouse gases. It is estimated that the use of biogas can reduce methane emissions generated on a pig farm by up to 75%.
On an economic level, the biogas system in Hernando demonstrates that investment in biogas technology can be very profitable. Although the initial implementation requires a considerable investment, the benefits obtained – both in energy savings and in the sale of excess electricity – allow the system to quickly pay for itself.
For example, Hernando producers have significantly reduced their dependence on the traditional electricity grid, which has allowed them to better cope with increases in electricity prices. In addition, the resulting organic fertilizer largely replaces chemical products, which have seen their prices skyrocket in recent years.
Future of biogas in Argentina
In Argentina, biogas production has had a considerable growth in recent years, especially since the approval of the Law for the Promotion of Renewable Energies in 2015. This legislation has promoted projects in the agricultural sector, including biogas systems in pig and cow farms and even in the food industry.
However, although important progress has been made, there is still a long way to go. There are financial and knowledge barriers that hinder the widespread adoption of biogas systems in the country. Many producers are unaware of the potential of their waste to generate energy, and accessible financing is scarce. However, initiatives such as Hernando's set an encouraging precedent for the future.
Furthermore, the environmental benefits should not be underestimated. Argentina, as a major agricultural producer, has considerable potential to reduce its environmental impact through increased investment in this type of technology. In fact, by 2030, biogas is expected to play a key role in the country's energy matrix.
It is crucial that more producers take this alternative into account and that government policies continue to encourage the installation of biodigesters. Clean energy such as biogas not only represents a solution to the energy crisis, but also provides an effective response to the current climate crisis.
Using pig manure to produce biogas is a sustainable and economically viable alternative that generates clean energy, fertilizers and reduces polluting emissions. Systems like Hernando's point the way to a more sustainable energy future in Argentina, and their success can inspire other producers to adopt this technology.