Feasibility Study into a Central Anaerobic Digestion (AD) Plant

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is the process where micro-organisms break down bio-degradable material in the absence of oxygen in an enclosed tank to produce methane, carbon dioxide and ammonia. Methane can be utilised to fuel a generator to produce electricity and heat. Farm-based AD plants are commonplace in mainland Europe where the key feedstock is maize silage. Maize has a very high calorific value but is unsuited to Scottish growing conditions. The study provides detailed technical and regulatory information relevant to local conditions and was sponsored by Aberdeenshire Council, Scottish Agricultural Organisation Society (SAOS), SPP and Co-operative Development Scotland (CDS).

• AD Study Report (pdf 831kb)