Utilization of biogas from pig farms for energy production and environmental amelioration

Abstract

In Thailand, biogas technology has been adopted for many years, particularly in the pig farm industry. During the past, this industry caused several harmful problems to the society and the environment, such as appalling odor, unsafe wastewater. The more the demands of pork, the higher the problems occur. Not only can biogas technology release the environmental problems, but also be a significant renewable energy source in this near future. This paper reviews the background of biogas technology, a biogas system used in Thailand piggery farms. Moreover, a simplified benefit-cost evaluation model is introduced to provide a holistic picture to decision makers. The results show the advantages of the biogas system beyond a traditional way, the open lagoon. The future of biogas system implementation is based on the collaboration between farmers, researchers, investors, and the government.