What inputs to use for methanisation?

So-called “methanisation inputs” include the different materials that can be used to produce biogas or biomethane.

They are fermentable organic matter that can be broken down by micro-organisms and bacteria in the anaerobic digestion process (in a low-oxygen environment) taking place in the digester.

Methanisation inputs can be:

farm waste: pig or cattle slurry, pig or cattle manure, poultry droppings, residues from corn and other cereal crops etc.
local authority waste: lawn mowings, cuttings from roadside verges, biowaste from catering etc.
agribusiness waste: animal or vegetable fats, fruit, vegetables etc.
domestic waste: sorted biowaste
intermediate energy crops

The methane production potential of these different inputs, meaning the quantity of methane they can produce, is not the same in each case. Some inputs with low methane production potential can still help achieve a good physicochemical balance in the digester. The choice of inputs is therefore of prime importance in guaranteeing the optimal performance of the methanisation unit.