Renewable Energy Production from DoD Installation Solid Wastes by Anaerobic Digestion

Abstract : Food waste generation and disposal is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions and lost opportunity for energy recovery. Anaerobic digestion of food waste and purification of methane-rich bio gas was conducted at the US Air Force Academy. Cost and performance of the technology with respect to renewable energy efficiency; bio gas purification; digester capacity and stability; waste sludge generation and characteristics; operational reliability, safety, and ease of use; and greenhouse accounting were evaluated. Demonstration results indicated the process was capable of meeting or exceeding most performance objectives. The technology was capable of significant reductions in the solid waste stream while at the same time recovering energy that can be used as vehicle fuel or a variety of other uses. Cost effectiveness of the technology was comparable or better to landfilling and composting especially for larger installations. The technology was also demonstrated to have favorable greenhouse gas offsets compared to composting and landfilling. An engineering guidance document was prepared that provides installations practical approaches for technology evaluation and implementation.