The Economic Efficiency of Micro Biogas Plants: A Sustainable Energy Solution in Slovenia—Case Study

Peter Vindiš (), Karmen Pažek, Jernej Prišenk and Črtomir Rozman
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Peter Vindiš: Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
Karmen Pažek: Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
Jernej Prišenk: Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia
Črtomir Rozman: Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Maribor, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia

Energies, 2024, vol. 17, issue 20, 1-17

Abstract: This paper presents a simulation model for determining the most suitable type of microbiogas plant for small local communities on Slovenian farms, focusing on the efficient processing of organic waste. This model uses various input parameters, including different types and quantities of slurry and corn silage. Four different scenarios were developed to represent potential plant sizes, each evaluated using key economic indicators: net present value, breakthrough price, and internal rate of return. A scenario sensitivity analysis was conducted to assess the effects of changes in investment costs, fluctuations in energy prices, and the addition of corn silage to the anaerobic digestion process. The results highlight significant differences in economic viability across the scenarios, with some demonstrating positive financial outcomes and shorter payback periods and others indicating potential financial risks and longer recovery times under certain conditions. The analysis suggests that smaller micro biogas plants may struggle to achieve profitability without optimizing input ratios or reducing costs, whereas larger plants show more favorable economic indicators, provided certain conditions are met. Furthermore, the economic efficiency improves when adding maize silage to the fermentor mixture.

Keywords: micro biogas plant; biogas; economic efficiency; simulation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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