Economic and Ecological Evaluation of Demand Side Management in Biogas Production – A Dynamic Simulation Approach*

The advantages of implementing demand side management (DSM) strategies in biogas production are explored. Specifically, the influence of agitation intervals on biogas production and the economic advantages of DSM in fermenter agitation are examined. The model-based study highlights the detrimental effects of insufficient agitation, such as reduced active reaction volume and diminished biogas yield. The article further delves into the optimal agitation intervals corresponding to different electricity price levels and assesses the implications of DSM on biogas production. Results substantiate that such strategies, particularly at high and low electricity prices, can increase profit while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.