1. 1. Reduction of Fossil fuel Dependency through the utilization of Anaerobic Digestion (Waste to Energy) Dr Gabriel Kelly Group EHS Manager 21/05/2015
2. 2. 2 Need Anaerobic Digestion Project Need and Pathway Long term strategic development Quotas would be abolished in 2015 meant there was a pressing business need: Increased milk processing Increase energy demands Increased treatment requirements for waste Technology solution was and integrated Anaerobic Digestion system Alternatives Do Nothing Use existing treatment model aerobic large tanks highly energy intensive, larger footprint more manpower more waste increased carbon footprint of the facility Other alternatives AFC unproven (thermophilic) ATAD not particularly successful and possibly not a suitable application Process Steps Planning permission in 2006 involving EIS EPA licence boundary change 2010 and license change approval Vendor choice Construction and commissioning 2011 /12
3. 3. 3 What is AD? Anaerobic Digestion Project Anaerobic Digestion: Anaerobic digestion of organic materials by microorganisms under controlled conditions with the production of biogas Natural Waste to Energy Process Scale 45,000 m3 probably the largest industrial Digester in Dairy industry Treatment of 27,000 kg/d COD current 50 to 60 % utilisation in peak 8 Million Investment in Waste to Energy provides for future expansion BAT compliant
4. 4. 4 Low energy electrical energy requirements Un manned automated system Mesophilic operation