Waste management is an ongoing problem not only within the UK but also on a global basis.
Each year the UK alone landfills 100 million tonnes of waste, one tonne of biodegradable waste and produces between 200m3 and 400m3 of landfill gas which contains typically 50% methane (CH4) with most of the remainder being carbon dioxide (CO2).
Landfill gas is one of the largest sources of methane emissions to the atmosphere. If methane is released into the atmosphere it is a potent greenhouse gas. In fact, its global-warming potential is 21 times greater than that of CO2. It is also a danger underground - potentially migrating off site to nearby buildings and creating an explosive atmosphere. Landfill gas has to be dealt with to prevent both its emission into the atmosphere and its danger to surrounding property.
Landfill gas can be flared (the simplest option), converting the methane to CO2 but using it as an energy resource both displaces fossil fuel use and encourages more efficient collection, minimising emissions to atmosphere. For this reason, energy recovery from landfill methane has considerable benefit to the environment - reducing global warming on two fronts.
Landfill gas is extracted from landfills using a series of wells and a flare system. This system diverts the gas to a central point where it can be processed and treated depending upon the ultimate use for the gas i.e. either to be flared off or used to fuel a generator.
Our service
At ENER-G our service includes both providing gas collection networks (through our sister company Biogas Technology Limited) and use of the collected gas to produce renewable energy. Particular management of the gas-fuelled engine in the generator system enables the impure and contaminated landfill gas to be used as a fuel. The damaging effects of the contaminants in the gas are minimised by adapting the engine's operation and adopting a tailored maintenance regime. With our wealth of experience in running reciprocating engines on landfill gas, we are able to optimise output whilst minimising costs.
Our approach
ENER-G’s unique approach to the exploitation and utilisation of landfill gas maximises the use of the gas resource, whilst reducing any negative environmental effect. We achieve this by managing the projects from conception through to commissioning and thereafter through the operation and maintenance phase.
Our philosophy
The philosophy at ENER-G includes:
- in-house design work of the gas collection system
- installation of the collection wells and pipework
- installation of gas booster and flare
- design and construction of the generation compound and commissioning of the generators
- regular monitoring and optimised balancing of the gas field at the manifold points.
The gas is the fuel for our reciprocating engines and is used to generate renewable power. The electricity produced qualifies for various government incentives around the world and ENER-G also negotiate the sale of the electricity through Power Purchase Agreements.
