Abstract
In order to select suitable bio-energy conversion technique for agricultural purposes, decision support systems based on cost analysis and the relation of supply and demand have been developed. Using these systems it is possible to display and analyze construction cost or energy cost required for the use of various methods of bio-energy conversion to meet a given demand and thereby, to select the most economical energy conversion technique.
Case studies were done to test the effectiveness of these systems in decision making. First study showed that more suppliers or utilization of compost would be necessary for recycling the agricultural wates. Second study showed that the cost for the use of methane fermentation technique to supply heat energy ranged from low to high depending on the type of demand. Third study showed that the use of methane gas electric generator to supply electric energy to the beef barn was economically feasible. It was therefore, evident that the developed systems can be used to support decision while selecting bio-energy conversion technique to meet the social needs.
