El biogas Biogas is a renewable energy source obtained from the decomposition of organic matter in a process called anaerobic digestion. This process generates a gas composed mainly of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2), which can be used as an energy source. Biogas is similar to natural gas in terms of its properties and can be used in electricity or thermal generation or as biofuel.
One of the main sources of biogas production is the organic waste, such as slurry from livestock farming, especially pigs. This waste is channelled to a biodigester through pipes, where it decomposes and generates biogas. It is estimated that in countries such as Germany, there are more than 10.000 biogas plants thanks to its strong presence in the livestock industry, while in Spain, the potential is still under development.
The biogas plant in Campillos
La biogas plant in Campillos, Malaga, is a key project in the energy transition of Andalusia. Inaugurated in July 2016, the plant has the capacity to treat up to 60.000 tons of slurry per year and other organic waste. The energy generated is impressive, reaching more than 16 million kWh per year, allowing local agro-industrial companies to benefit from a reliable and sustainable source of energy.
Among the companies that have partnered with this plant are: PROCAVI, one of the largest turkey producers in Europe, and GYPASA, from the pig sector. In addition, the plant also produces 10.000 tons of compost per year, which are used as fertilizers in local agriculture. This compost improves soil fertility and helps reduce the need for chemical fertilizers, encouraging sustainable agricultural practices.
Environmental and social impact
The environmental impact of the plant is notable, as it contributes significantly to the reduction of Emissions of greenhouse gasesIt is estimated that the plant reduces approximately 13.000 tons of CO2 per year, which is equivalent to removing more than 2.800 cars from the roads. In addition, the treatment of slurry prevents the contamination of groundwater and soil, a serious problem in areas with high livestock activity.
In social terms, the facility has had a positive impact by generating local employment in waste management and energy production. It also provides an example to follow for future agro-industrial biogas projects in Spain. The Campillos plant has demonstrated its economic viability without relying on state aid, highlighting the importance of self-sufficiency in renewable energy for small communities and businesses.
Compost and digestate production
One of the most important byproducts of the anaerobic digestion process is the digestate, which is the solid residue resulting from the biogas production process. This digestate is rich in nutrients and can be transformed into organic fertilizer reusable in agriculture. The Campillos plant produces around 10.000 tonnes of high-quality compost every year.
The compost generated here not only improves soil quality, but also contributes to the circular economy in the region. This means that the production cycle is closed by using organic waste that was previously considered waste, turning it into useful resources to restore and improve local agricultural soils.
The future of biogas in Andalusia
Andalusia has great potential for the development of new biogas plants, especially in areas with a high concentration of livestock or agricultural farms. Currently, there are several initiatives underway, such as the biogas plant Bioreciric en Almeria and other emerging plants in provinces such as Seville and Granada.
Andalusia is expected to become a national leader in biogas production. A clear example is the biomethane plant project in Andalusian fountains, Seville, which plans to generate 84,9GWh of energy per year, enough to supply 22.500 homes, and more than 9.500 tonnes of CO2 avoided.
The development of more agro-industrial biogas plants in the region will not only help reduce the carbon footprint, but will also boost the creation of green jobs and promote energy self-sufficiency. Projects such as the one in Campillos represent an important step towards a more sustainable future for Andalusia and the rest of the country.