Biomethanation in Farming Businesses
Biomethanation is a fermentation process where organic-rich residue, such as manure and organic waste, is converted under anaerobic conditions to produce biogas. The waste is reclaimed using biodigesters—systems built in the shape of silos or pits. Biogas generated on the farm can be upcycled as thermal energy to heat livestock buildings and greenhouses or even be converted into electricity.
What makes this process interesting is how it captures greenhouse gases emitted by manure and slurry, which would normally be released into the atmosphere. The resulting sludge also offers certain benefits, namely a reduction in pathogens and odours from animal waste, lower risks of runoff into waterways, and improved nutrient bioavailability.
Farms could become a backbone in waste management for their communities by accepting organic waste from neighbouring towns and businesses. From an environmental standpoint, biodigesters are a promising solution.
*“About 15 years ago, the Ontario government offered farmers contracts focused on solar energy, wind power and biodigesters. These contracts gave us a bonus for using renewable energy. As a result, we can operate our biodigester profitably.” * – Terry Heinzle, Ontario farmer and biodigester operator
A Potential Solution for Quebec Farms?
Cendrix Bouchard, strategic communications advisor at Hydro-Québec, mentioned in an email that although solar power makes up the bulk of self-generated energy in Quebec, autonomous production is encouraged for all forms of renewable energy. Only a few dozen farms are currently enrolled in Hydro-Québec’s Net Metering program, which allows customers to generate electricity at home from renewable sources.
“Hydro-Québec is considering the possibility of making changes to various aspects of the program to encourage participation and support decarbonization in Quebec,” he goes on to say.
Following in the footsteps of Ontario farmers, could the Quebec agricultural community be called to play a bigger role in the energy transition to come?