Project: Sustainable biogas production by substituting maize silage with agricultural energy crops

The project is co-financed by the European Union from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and is implemented within the Operational Program Competitiveness and Cohesion 2014-2020

Project description

Project Sustainable biogas production by substituting maize silage with agricultural energy crops (KK.01.1.1.07.0078), implemented under the call Strengthening Capacities for Research, Development and Innovation KK.011.1.07.

To read more about the project implementation, visit https://biomass2biogas.agr.hr.

The project will include industrial research in biogas production aimed at substituting maize silage as conventional, unsustainable raw material with sustainable energy crops Miscanthus X giganteus, Arundo donax and Sida hermaphrodita.

The project represents a direct step towards establishing a system that would supply existing and future biogas plants with raw material that is more available and economically more advantageous than the presently used maize silage.

The foreseen project duration is 36 months.

Project implementation period

The project is to be implemented from December 23, 2020 to December 23, 2023.

Project purpose (specific objectives)

The purpose is to research different anaerobic processing technologies of these cultures by applying the procedures of innovative anaerobic processing to determine the optimum technology and energy potential of the proposed system and the possibility of fermented residue disposal.

Expected deliverables of the project

  • Publication of 7 scientific papers in the Web of Science indexed journals.
  • Intellectual property protection
  • Establishing permanent cooperation between the Applicant and the Partner

General objectives of the project

  • Determine the possibility of revitalizing abandoned agricultural areas by growing different energy crops to produce second-generation biogas
  • Define the possibility of biomass storage (open warehouses) for a year-round supply of biogas plants with researched raw materials
  • Analyze the composition of the researched biomass as input raw material into the anaerobic digestion as a batch and continuous process
  • Determine the potential of biogas production in relation to the energy culture used, as well as the shares of individual raw materials during anaerobic co-digestion in the batch and continuous process
  • Define the optimal formulation in relation to the percentage ratio of using individual raw materials during anaerobic co-digestion in the fermentor in both co-digestion processes
  • Analyse the fermented residue (digestate) in relation to researched formulations
  • Determine the optimal fermented residue disposal options 
  • Determine the energy potential of the proposed system

For more information about the project, please contact Goran Lukić at info@croteh.eu

For more information about the European structural and investment funds, please visit www.strukturnifondovi.hr

For more information about the Operational Program Competitiveness and Cohesion, please visit http://www.strukturnifondovi.hr/op-konkurentnost-i-kohezija-2014-2020-779

More projects...

1. REAL SAMPLE COLLECTION

We collect representative field samples directly at client facilities and analyze them in our accredited laboratory in accordance with recognized standards. Our laboratory testing includes physical, chemical, and biological parameters required to define design input values, including load variability and seasonal or operational fluctuations. These data form the foundation for reliable scaling solutions and technology development.

2. DEVELOPMENT OF TECHNICAL SOLUTIONS

Based on the assessment of existing conditions and laboratory results, we develop technical solutions tailored to each client’s requirements. When designing solutions, we consider plant capacity, influent characteristics, discharge requirements (public sewer systems or natural receiving waters), and circular economy principles. To support detailed process development, our laboratory is equipped with reactors, measuring instruments, and pilot-scale systems that allow us to simulate real operating conditions. Through pilot testing, we evaluate process efficiency, optimize operating parameters, and validate treatment concepts before full-scale implementation. This approach significantly reduces investment and operational risk while ensuring long-term sustainability of the selected solution. We also place strong emphasis on optimizing energy, chemical, and resource consumption while minimizing the plant’s environmental footprint throughout its lifecycle.

3. ENGINEERING DESIGN AND PERMITTING

Our multidisciplinary engineering team prepares complete project documentation, from conceptual designs and feasibility studies to detailed engineering documentation and permit applications. All documentation is developed in accordance with current legislation, technical regulations, and applicable standards while maintaining close coordination with clients and regulatory authorities.

4. PLANT ENGINEERING AND INSTALLATION – Complete turnkey plant implementation proposal, including detailed design documentation and commissioning services

We deliver turnkey treatment plants tailored to each client’s needs. Our services include detailed engineering design, equipment procurement and delivery, site organization, installation of process and electrical equipment, and integration of automation and control systems. The final stage includes functional testing and preparation for plant commissioning.

5. CONSTRUCTION SUPERVISION

We provide professional technical supervision during construction to ensure full compliance with project documentation, technical standards, and contractual requirements. We monitor construction quality, installed equipment, and adherence to project timelines.

6. PLANT COMMISSIONING AND STAFF TRAINING

After construction and functional testing are complete, we perform staged commissioning with continuous monitoring of process parameters and adjustment of operating conditions. We also prepare operational manuals and provide professional staff training to ensure safe, efficient, and long-term stable plant operation.

7. POST-CONSTRUCTION TESTING

After project completion, we perform functional and other tests to verify that the treatment plant achieves the required operational parameters and effluent quality.

8. PLANT SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

We provide preventive and corrective maintenance, scheduled service inspections, and 24/7/365 technical support. Our systematic maintenance approach extends equipment lifespan, minimizes downtime risk, and ensures high operational efficiency.

9. PLANT MONITORING AND OPERATIONAL CONTROL

We implement SCADA and PLC automation and control systems that enable continuous plant monitoring, analysis of key process parameters, and rapid response to operational deviations or fluctuations in wastewater flow and loading. We place particular emphasis on reducing energy, chemical, and labor consumption.

10. PLANT OPTIMIZATION AND RECONSTRUCTION

We perform technical assessments of existing systems to identify capacity limitations, energy losses, and operational inefficiencies. Based on our findings, we recommend retrofits, upgrades, and modernization of technological process lines to improve efficiency, ensure compliance with new regulatory requirements, and extend plant service life.

Contact us