The use of agricultural waste for the renewable energy production

Abstract

In addition to hydroelectric power plants, solar and wind power plants, biogas plants are important in the production of electricity and heat from renewable energy sources. It is known that depending on the type of substrate used for processing and the design features of biogas plants, they have their own advantages and disadvantages. Nevertheless, properly localized biomass installation is able to decrease the use of conventional materials reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Bio-waste, plant residues and other by-products can be used to produce electricity, heat and purified methane as fuel for repaired vehicles. Biogas production is a key technology for the sustainable use of agricultural biomass as a renewable energy source. Both, Poland and Ukraine, have a large agricultural area, and well developed animal cattery, which creates opportunities for alternative energy sources from biomass development.          Agricultural biogas plant energy produced from waste such manure, slurry and another agricultural waste, is an excellent source of heat, likewise, electricity. Therefore the importance of using agricultural waste as an energy source in the production of biogas shall be emphasized. A significant drawback of the system is the need to provide low economic and environmental losses. For this purpose, the place of biomass harvesting, transport and its preparation together with storage should be taken into account. To achieve the highest efficiency, small biogas plants should have permanent composition of substrate consisting of various ingredients.                 Ukraine and Poland has considerable potential of renewable energy sources development of which can provide significant economic, ecological, and social benefits. The production of biogas has become an attractive source of extra income for many farmers. Biogas production has a useful effect not only on economic, but ecological development, particularly in the rural regions. At the same time, environmental protection aspects have gained additional importance, so that anaerobic treatment processes have become a key technology for environmental and climate protection.          On the basis of the submitted documentation by the municipal administration and the manufacturer, the operation of biogas plants for the processing of organic agricultural waste in Gorajec and Odrzechowa (Poland) has been presented.