The potential of biogas production in Uruguay

Based on a national survey of agricultural and agro-industrial production, the amount of organic waste that can be treated by anaerobic digestion was estimated. Assuming the actual possibilities of waste collection and considering the potential of methanation, the potential for methane generation from solid and liquid wastes in Uruguay was calculated. The results indicate that, in the current situation, energy generation equivalent to 1.3–2.1% of total primary energy could be achieved. Despite its low incidence in the energy matrix, biogas generation from wastes must be viewed from the standpoint of sustainable development. While generating renewable energy, biogas meets requirements related to waste treatment and minimises environmental impacts. Some industries, such as slaughterhouses and the dairy and bioethanol industries are noted for their contribution and the feasibility of implementing treatment systems for biogas generation in factories. In other cases, especially for residues of agricultural activity, uptake difficulties cause it to be a less viable choice; the installation of centralised plants that process substrates from diverse sources may be a solution. Due to changes in many productive areas, new opportunities for biogas potential may arise. The potential impact of the use of energy crops is also discussed.

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