Use of a Stackable Material Anaerobic Digester for Combined Heat and Power Generation, Manure Odor Reduction and Food Waste Energy Recovery

The project aims to build and operate a stackable material digester to produce biogas from manure produced by the animal operations at The Pennsylvania State University College of Agricultural Sciences. Use the biogas produced to fuel a combined heat and power unit to feed electricity into the electric grid and to heat buildings in close proximity to the CHP. Add other digestible waste streams to the feedstock as appropriate. Supplement digester feedstocks with biomass field crops as appropriate to increase gas production and return on investment. Provide digestate (digested material from the digester) to local EQIP eligible farmers. Record accurate costs of construction and operation of the dry digester to allow farmers to realistically consider this type of equipment for their agricultural operation. Provide educational opportunities for agricultural producers, suppliers, educators, and other clientele to view and discuss this type of anaerobic digester.