Technical Challenges and Optimization of Biogas Plants

Abstract Countries with a large agricultural sector have enormous potential for energy production using biogas technology. This paper analyses the situation in Pakistan as a representative example. Although many biogas plants were installed, only very slow growth in the biogas sector can be observed. Since the last three decades the country is facing a severe energy shortfall. To overcome this challenge, energy from organic waste is one of the best possible solution. This study reviews the key technical challenges associated with the operation and sustainability of biogas plants. The problems in basic infrastructure such as leakages due to gas pressure, inadequate removal of digestate, no mechanism for scum avoidance, and steel corrosion were identified, and solutions were proposed. Moreover, organizational structures for renewable energy, critical flaws in plant design, operational challenges, and updated technology aspects to attain maximum and sustainable growth in biogas sector are discussed, which could help the countries in the region to enhance their biogas production.