Optimization of Plant Operation Considering a Dairy Load Variation of Biomethane Production Plant

Abstract

With the goal of using biogas energy not to influence to the effective use of an electric power system, a method of storing and transporting biomethane produced from biogas purification for energy use by local consumers was investigated. The study formulated a model for the use of biomethane produced in a plant capable of treating manure from 1,000 dairy cows as fuel for cogeneration in a consumption area remote from the plant based on mathematical programming. In addition, optimal plant operation to maximize the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions was examined. The results indicated that the optimization of plant operation required the use of a gas engine according to heat demand, the purchase of other power from the electric power system, and gas-boiler supplement for the shortfall in heat. In this case, it was estimated that approximately 500 Nm³/d of biomethane could be supplied to a local area.