From Waste to Energy: Biogas Production, Utilization, and Developmental Challenges

Abstract

Biogas is a combustible gas produced through the anaerobic digestion of organic materials such as agricultural residues, animal manure, and food waste, primarily composed of methane (55–65%) and carbon dioxide (35–45%), along with trace gases like hydrogen sulfide and nitrogen. The anaerobic digestion (AD) process occurs in four key stages—hydrolysis, acidogenesis, acetogenesis, and methanogenesis and each facilitated by specialized microorganisms that break down complex organic matter into simpler compounds, ultimately yielding biogas. Factors influencing digester efficiency include temperature, pH, carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, toxicants, and digester instrumentation, with optimal conditions ensuring stable microbial activity and maximum methane production. This research was aimed to outline how organic waste can be converted to renewable energy (biogas) in relation to production, utilization, and developmental challenges. Biogas serves as a versatile renewable energy source, applicable in electricity generation, heating, combined heat and power (CHP) systems, transportation fuel (as upgraded biomethane), hydrogen production, and fuel cells. Despite its potential, biogas development faces challenges such as high installation costs, poor maintenance, and lack of technological awareness, system failures, and insufficient policy support. In Nigeria, biogas technology remains underdeveloped, with limited operational plants and reliance on research initiatives, though abundant feedstock availability presents significant opportunities for expansion. Addressing technical, economic, and policy barriers is crucial for scaling biogas adoption and harnessing its environmental and energy benefits effectively. 

Keyword: Waste, biogas, hydrolysis, acidogenesis, acetogenesis.