Northern Ireland: 103 Anaerobic Digestion Plants Approved….

Northern Ireland’s Anaerobic Digestion (AD) sector is set to rocket within the next half decade. Research has revealed that there are currently?103 AD sites either in construction or already approved?in the region.

Once completed, these will be capable of processing around?1.4 million tonnes of feedstocks a year. This figure is more than double the total currently used for anaerobic digestion in Northern Ireland.

Anaerobic digestion (AD) plants have emerged as a promising solution for converting organic waste, such as slurry and grass silage, into renewable energy. This process not only generates electricity and gas but also addresses waste management challenges. However, the implementation and management of AD plants come with their own set of complexities and environmental considerations.

Northern Ireland has become a hotspot for anaerobic digestion, with?76 operational AD plants. This density is more than three times that found in Great Britain.

Additionally, the 103 AD sites under construction or approved indicate significant growth in this sector. This expansion highlights the region’s reliance on agricultural feedstocks, which can intensify land use and potentially lead to nutrient overloads.

In comparison, the UK as a whole had?579 operational AD plants?as of 2019/20. The majority of these plants are farm-fed, utilising agricultural waste products. Northern Ireland’s higher density of AD plants underscores its unique position within the UK, driven by the availability of feedstocks and supportive, historic, financial incentives.

The AD sector in Northern Ireland faces an increased number of new regulatory challenges, particularly with retrospective planning applications which have been sparked, in many situations, by nutrient management plans and falsified soil samples.

Over?3,000 falsified soil samples?have been reported, highlighting systemic issues within the regulatory framework. This has led to a over 389 planning approvals that have been based on inaccurate information.

A high number of retrospective planning applications are expected to be rejected due to the already saturated landbanks with nitrates and phosphates unless alternatives are put in place.

Although the economic impact of AD plants on local farmers has been significant in relation to grass fed digesters, a primary feedstock has driven up the cost of conacre, making it harder for traditional farmers to secure affordable land.?In 2023, around?133,000 hectares (2.2%) of UK arable land?was devoted to bioenergy crops3. This trend has intensified economic pressures on farmers and impacted livestock feed costs , AD plants can offer a lucrative solution for waste management and slurry handling, especially in locations with gas connections.

The biogas produced can be upgraded and injected into the natural gas grid, providing a sustainable energy source.

This integration can significantly reduce the carbon footprint and support a more sustainable agricultural sector. Industry leaders claim AD has the potential to be worth up to?￡33 million a year?to the Northern Irish economy.

As a specialist in this field for more than 15 years, Manor Architects have delivered some of the largest AD plants in the UK. Our expertise in planning and regulatory compliance ensures that AD projects are not only efficient but also environmentally sustainable.

Manor Mont Enviro, a cross-border company launched by Manor Architects, has developed award-winning solutions for wastewater management and nutrient reduction. Their innovative technologies address the core issues surrounding AD, particularly the management of nitrates and phosphates, and water treatment.

Anaerobic digestion holds genuine promise as part of the renewable energy landscape. However, it must be managed responsibly, with a clear focus on nutrient management, land availability, and environmental sustainability.

By adopting a holistic approach, AD can complement traditional farming practices and contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future.

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