Work

Financial assessment of integrating anaerobic digestion with cattle farming for biomethane production – Implications for farm economics and the supply chain

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Integrating anaerobic digestion (AD) into agriculture can support carbon neutrality and circular bioeconomy. However, economic benefits for stakeholders are crucial for implementing full-scale AD. This study assessed the financial implications of producing grass silage for AD on beef farms. It also assessed the financial viability of full-scale AD plants co-digesting grass silage and cattle slurry for biomethane, focusing on competitive grass silage pricing and support schemes. Results indicate that a grass silage price of €245/t dry matter (DM) is needed for competitiveness with beef production; this requires a biomethane certificate price of €0.12/kWh for the AD plant. At current prices (€0.098/kWh), the AD plant could afford €164/t DM for silage, requiring farm subsidies of €893/ha to cover price gaps. Methane yield of AD silage, along with biomethane certificate and silage prices, are key variables affecting the 20-year net present value of the AD plant. This study underscores the government's critical role in fostering a low-carbon livestock sector. • The economic viability of integrating AD within a beef farm should be addressed. • Pricing strategy for producing grass silage for AD on a beef farm was assessed. • AD silage price afforded by AD plant highly relied on biomethane certificate price. • Farm subsidies are needed to offset AD silage price gap between AD plant and farm. • Methane yield of AD silage, along with biomethane certificate and grass silage prices, are key drivers of the overall NPV.

Source: Biomass and Bioenergy

DOI: 10.1016/j.biombioe.2025.107702

Authors: Sofia Tisocco, James J. Lenehan, Xinmin Zhan, Paul Crosson

Institutions: Teagasc - The Irish Agriculture and Food Development Authority, Ollscoil na Gaillimhe – University of Galway, SFI Research Centre for Energy, Climate and Marine

Language: English

Topic: Anaerobic Digestion and Biogas Production

Subfield: Building and Construction

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Zero hunger, Affordable and clean energy, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,270