Biogas is created when manure is placed in a machine called a “biodigester,” designed to capture methane gas released by decomposing material. A dairy farmer, for example, could use a biodigester to help resolve a farms biggest solid waste problem: manure disposal. When properly treated, biogas can be used to generate electricity or eventually added to a pipeline system and used in homes and businesses.
Currently, biogas can be produced only in limited quantities, and NW Natural hopes that through Smart Energy biogas can become a viable, renewable energy source for our region. By capturing the methane from manure, biogas projects can protect the atmosphere from substantial emissions of a gas strongly associated with climate change.
A typical cow produces 120 pounds of waste each day, which as it decomposes, releases methane gas. There are approximately 120,000 dairy cows in Oregon on 350 dairy farms. That means that over 14.4 million pounds of cow waste is generated in Oregon every single day. Methane from manure is a 23 times more potent greenhouse gas than carbon dioxide. Biodigesters can keep manure and bacteria out of streams, lakes and groundwater. Small local farms benefit by receiving financial support and by generating energy for their own use. Biodigesters also eliminate odors and other issues associated with manure collection.
