Project: Development of the biogas production process from difficult-to-degrade lignocellulosic substrate

The project is co-financed by the European Union from the European Fund for Regional Development, which is implemented as part of the Operational Program Competitiveness and Cohesion 2014-2020.

Short description of the project

The company CROTEH Ltd (Sustainable Technologies Development Centre) has signed with the Ministry of Economy, Entrepreneurship and Crafts and the Croatian Agency for Small Business, Innovation and Investments (Hamag Bicro) Grant Agreement No. KK.03.2.2.01.0159 for the implementation of the project “Project: Development of the biogas production process from difficult-to-degrade lignocellulosic substrate”.

The project envisages the completion of the development of an innovative biogas production process from difficult-to-degrade lignocellular substrates. In contrast to conventional anaerobic processes, the innovative process can successfully anaerobically degrade the mentioned substrates. Upon completion of the project, the process will be ready for commercialisation and implementation on an industrial scale. The implementation of innovative technology enables users to use the above-mentioned substrates energetically and materially, thus fulfilling the prerequisites for the establishment of a circular economy system.

One of the goals of the project is to increase the competitiveness and market share of the company CROTEH Ltd (Sustainable Technologies Development Centre) by selling and implementing the developed process on an industrial scale, and in this way it will be possible to achieve the strategic goal of the company. The project will ensure the employment of new employees, an increase in direct investments in the development of new technologies and will enable a more significant breakthrough of the company on the domestic and foreign markets.

Razvoj procesa proizvodnje bioplina iz teškorazgradivih lignoceluloznih supstrata

Implementation period of the project

The project was implemented from October 1, 2017 to April 1, 2019.

General goal of the project

Strengthening the competitiveness through the commercialisation of products and services by applying the results of the research, development and innovations of the applicant in business activities in the territory of the Republic of Croatia and the European Union.

Purpose of the project (specific objectives)

  • recruitment of new employees,
  • raising the level of work equipments
  • strengthening development capacities,
  • further expansion of competences

Expected results of the project

  • Increasing sales revenue, preserving the number of existing jobs, increasing the number of employees - opening of new jobs

  • The purchase value of the project is: HRK 1,435,360.00 (EUR 190,505.01)

  • Total acceptable costs amount to: HRK 1,435,360.00 (EUR 190,505.01)

  • Amount of co-financing from the European Union: HRK 1,285,360.00 (EUR 170,596.59)

For more information about the project, you can contact us at: info@croteh.eu

For more information about the European Structural and Investment Funds, visit www.strukturnifondovi.hr

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

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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.

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