AD Biogas News February 2014 Final

News
THE UK ANAEROBIC DIGESTION & BIOGAS

TRADE ASSOCIATIONS BI-MONTHLY MAGAZINE
Issue 20 FEBRUARY 2014
Big innovations
driving small
scale AD
Focus on tanks
FIT degression review
AD plant update 2014
UK AD & Biogas
Industry Awards 2014 Enter now
AD & Biogas News | february 2014
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Guest Foreword
Encouraging the
growth of on-farm AD
Inside this issue >

Guest Foreword:
Viewpoint:
ADBA News:
4-6
Regions:
Feature Small scale AD:
Government & Agency News:
7
8-12
14
ADBA National Conference 2013 Review: 16-17

Technology focus Tanks:
18-20
Plant Update:
22-23
Policy News:
24-25
Members News and Views:
26-30
Working Groups:
31
R&D Update:
33
Upcoming Events:
35
Membership Matters:
36-38
AD&Biogas
News Features
Features for Issue 21 (April) include:
UK AD & Biogas 2014 & Industry
Awards preview
Extracting food waste - the challenges and
developments in maximising the volume of food
waste sent to AD
Technology focus: Gas upgrading
Copy deadline: 21 February 2014
By Dr Jonathan Scurlock, Chief Adviser (Renewable

Energy and Climate Change), National Farmers' Union (NFU)
D is a natural fit with many parts of the agricultural community and offers multiple environmental
benefits, including the opportunity to better recover and manage nutrients from the variety of
manures, slurries, discards, outgrades and residues that arise in the course of farming. On-farm
AD plants also provide one of the most promising mitigation measures for reducing greenhouse gas
emissions from agriculture, reducing fugitive methane from manure and slurry handling, replacing energy
intensive manufactured fertilisers and, of course, providing a low carbon energy source. Add to this better
control of odours such as ammonia, improved soil management, and easier compliance with water resource
protection and whats not to like?
Clearly, maximum benefits will be achieved through a large number of farm-based AD projects distributed
nationwide. Yet the development of on-farm AD in Britain has been relatively slow compared with other
renewable energy options; by the end of 2013, only around a third of the UKs 125 AD plants were located
on farms. The NFU remains hopeful, however, that this robust, innovative industry is now set for more rapid
growth, with a pipeline of up to 300 projects by 2015 putting it well on track for the widely shared ambition
of 1,000 agricultural plants by 2020.
The governments AD Strategy and Action Plan, to which the NFU and ADBA contributed alongside many
other stakeholders, is drawing to a close with a greater recognition of the wider benefits of AD. However,
a number of important policy items remain incomplete. First and foremost, Feed-in Tariff levels and other
energy incentive payments must be sufficient to encourage the development of smaller plants (typically
25 kW to 250 kW) that can be better integrated into a wider range of farms. Secondly, the development and
recognition by Defra of industry-led best practice guidance for growing crop feedstocks must be concluded.
And lastly, clearer government signals are required on environmental permitting for a variety of AD business
models, as well as on permitted development rights for the smallest agricultural digesters.
See feature, Small scale AD takes a giant leap forward, p8
For more info on developing an on-farm AD plant, contact ADBA's Farmers' Consultancy Service
for a FREE initial AD consultation. See p38 for details or go to http://bit.ly/1lEmDVo
Features for Issue 22 (June) include:

UK AD & Biogas 2014 & Industry
Awards preview
AD in the food & drink sector
Technology focus: Pipes
Copy deadline: 17 April 2014
Sponsorship and advertising:

Jamil Ahad T +44 (0)203 176 4414
E jamil.ahad@adbiogas.co.uk
Rachel Fenton T +44 (0)203 176 5418
E rachel.fenton@adbiogas.co.uk
Editorial:
Editor: Kate OReilly T +44 (0)7894 039609
E kate.oreilly@adbiogas.co.uk
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Cover image: Clearfleaus on-site AD plant for
Nestl, at the Fawdon manufacturing facility
in Newcastle
www.adbiogas.co.uk
february 2014 | AD & Biogas News
ADBA News
Recognising the
true value of
small scale AD
By Charlotte Morton, ADBAs Chief Executive
mall scale anaerobic digestion, particularly on farms, offers

huge strategic value to the UK and the British farming industry
and will be at the heart of the AD industrys growth in the
coming years. As well as providing an additional income stream for
farming businesses, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy
bills by generating on site energy, and improving slurry management,
the AD process recycles essential nutrients back to land in the form of
biofertiliser, supporting food production.
There are already over 50 operational AD plants on farms, with countless
more in the pipeline looking to secure planning, finance and grid
connections. We have been striving to support this growth; our free
Farmers Consultancy Service has been in place since February 2012 and
we will shortly be launching a Crop Operators Working Group to directly
tackle the issues that on-farm operators and developers face every day.
But government must also be clear in its support for small scale AD to
ensure the potential is realised. Octobers announcement of the On-Farm
AD Loan Fund, which will offer 10,000 grants to create a business plan
for on-farm projects below 250 kW and loans of up to 400,000 to help
build plants, was certainly a step in the right direction.
Yet recent months have been overshadowed by the possibility of a 20%
cut in support in April for projects below 500 kW, under the Feed-in
Tariff (FIT) scheme. Following the hard work of our policy team and close
dialogue with other organisations such as the REA and NFU, however,
government has been persuaded to hold a tariff review to address the 20%
reduction and place FIT support for small scale projects on a secure, long
term footing (see p5 for full details).
We are always looking to step up our efforts to influence key political
thinkers on the potential role of AD and I am therefore delighted to
announce that Chris Huhne has joined ADBA as a Strategic Advisor.
As the previous Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change,
former Shadow Defra Minister and MEP, this appointment will allow us
to improve the effectiveness of our political activity and work towards
ensuring that AD, at all scales, receives the support and recognition it
deserves both in the UK and at EU level.
See p8 for our in-depth feature on small scale AD
See p38 for details of our Farmers' Consultancy Service
www.wrap.org.uk/content/farm-ad-fund
http://bit.ly/1lEmDVo
European End of Waste

The European Commission Joint Research Centre (JRC) has now published
its final Technical Report on end of waste criteria for biodegradable waste.
The report will be sent to the European Commission prior to the preparation
of proposals for Commission regulations, and while it is unlikely that the
Commission will make any notable changes, Member State approval will be
required before the criteria can come into force.
There are relatively few changes from the draft report circulated in August, but
key points include:
Sewage sludge and mechanical biological treatment (MBT) are excluded
from permitted input materials, but manure is included;
Approach on quality and stability is little changed from previous drafts,
giving Member State competent authorities the ability to use their own
tests, but providing no equivalence across the EU;
The requirement for independent sampling and PAH measurement
remains, and are the issues which are likely to add the greatest cost;
Weed seed and PAH measurement is introduced for digestate;
Sampling frequency has been defined on plant size;
UK assurance schemes will be acceptable.
A comprehensive summary of the final report is available at adbiogas.co.uk
EU consultation: FIT
evidence (1-5 MW) needed
We are keen to gather evidence for a European Commission consultation
on energy and environmental state aid, which will require us to make a
strong case for the importance of Feed-in Tariff (FIT) support for projects
between 1-5 MW. As the early stage proposals currently stand, European
guidelines could introduce a 1 MW threshold on the scheme; a significant
reduction from the current 5 MW limit. It is worth stressing, however, that
we are in dialogue with DECC over this issue, who have confirmed that
their policy remains to support FIT projects up to at least 5 MW (possibly
10 MW for community projects); we have already provided evidence to
assist with their response to the consultation.
Get involved
Investors, developers and operators are urged to provide evidence
of the vital role that FIT support plays for projects between 1-5 MW.
Contact E matt.hindle@adbiogas.co.uk by 12 February.
www.adbiogas.co.uk
ADBA News
DECC confirms support for biogas
combustion projects
DECC has at last confirmed Renewable Heat
Incentive (RHI) support for biogas combustion
projects with a thermal capacity beyond 200
kWth, with the following tariffs set to take effect
from spring 2014:
Only projects equal to or above 200 kWth, which

are commissioned after 4 December 2013, will
be eligible to receive these new tariffs. However,
Ofgem has confirmed to us that any existing
plants not currently using heat can add a heat
exchanger and other associated equipment, thereby converting to CHP and
becoming eligible to receive the new tariffs (see Policy News, p24, for further
details). DECC also set out its intention to introduce a tariff guarantee for
larger projects over 1 MW, although this would not take effect until 2015 for
projects due to commission by spring 2016. A full summary of the outcome
from the biogas combustion projects consultation, including important news
on sustainability criteria and updated degression triggers, is available to
ADBA members via the news blog at adbiogas.co.uk
Edina
<200 kWth = 7.5p/kWh

200-599 kWth = 5.9p/kWh
>600 kWth = 2.2p/kWh
In addition to this announcement, a full RHI review will take place as planned
this year, with work already underway on the scope of the consultation.
However, DECC has been clear to point out that it will avoid making changes
to the new tariffs. This review will help inform budget setting for the RHI after
April 2016, although this will not be set before the 2015 spending review,
with potential issues for discussion likely to include banding biomethane
grid injection support and an enhanced preliminary accreditation mechanism
for grid injection projects.
Industry welcomes FIT review

Following a very welcome announcement in December by DECC Minister Greg
Barker MP, a consultation is expected shortly to address Feed-in Tariff (FIT)
degression for small scale AD; as Charlotte Morton states in her piece on p4,
this includes a tariff review. This is clearly a huge step in the right direction and
addresses the key industry objective of action from government to tackle the
impending 20% tariff reduction for new sub 500 kW projects, due to come into
effect this April.
In a letter sent to ADBA, REA, NFU, CLA and RASE, Mr Barker stated that the
degression mechanism is resulting in unintended consequencesmeaning
degression is likely to come sooner than expected. He added that action may
well be needed to avoid the risk of damage to the genuine small scale AD
sector, with DECC planning to consult on measures, including a tariff review,
in January.
At a time when debate around the cost of energy is high on the agenda and
with the energy sector containing a number of competing interests the fact
that the Minister has recognised the particular issues and concerns of the AD
industry is very welcome. However, work will clearly need to continue over
the coming months to produce a strong, credible consultation response that
achieves viable tariff levels, and member input will of course be vital in this
process; see below for details of how to contribute to our response.
Finally, there is of course a risk of hiatus while the consultation is ongoing; we
will be working closely with DECC to provide as much certainty as possible
during the process.
Get involved
DECC Minister Greg Barker MP
has announced a review of FIT
degression for small scale AD
In order to make a strong case to government during the review of FIT

support for sub 500 kW plants, it is imperative that our members get in
touch to provide evidence on the level of support required to effectively
incentivise the small scale sector. To contribute to our response, contact
T +44 (0)203 176 5440 E Jordan.marshall@adbiogas.co.uk
www.adbiogas.co.uk
ADBA News
ADBA outlines importance of AD to Lords

Shortly before Christmas, our Chief Executive,
Charlotte Morton, gave evidence to a House of Lords
Committee as part of an EU level enquiry into food
waste prevention, emphasising the central role that
separate food waste collections and subsequent
treatment through AD have on cutting food waste and
making the most of our resources. Addressing the EU
Sub Committee on Agriculture, Fisheries, Environment and Energy, Charlotte

stated: Reducing the extraordinary amount of food we waste is clearly the
priority. Source separated food waste collections are a significant tool to
help achieve that goal, since they allow waste producers to see what they
are wasting and think how they can reduce that. Whats left is then available
to be sent for treatment through anaerobic digestion, which is currently the
technology which makes the most of this valuable resource.
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Regions
News from the regions

Scottish renewables industry displaces
record amount of CO2
L-R: Fred MacAulay, awards host; Richard Gueterbock, Marketing

Director of Clearfleau; Morag Garden of the Scotch Whisky Association;
Iain Robertson of award sponsor SmartestEnergy
New figures have revealed that more than 10m tonnes of

CO2 emissions were displaced by renewable electricity in
Scotland last year, an increase of 24% on the previous
12 months. Niall Stuart, Chief Executive of Scottish
Renewables, remarks: Renewables now generate the
Niall Stuart
equivalent of 40% of the demand for power from every
home and business in the country, support thousands of jobs across
Scotland and are making a massive dent in carbon emissions.
www.scottishrenewables.com
Wales ideally placed to upgrade to the

circular economy
Success for Clearfleau at Scottish Green Awards

Scottish Renewables Scottish Green Energy Awards 2013 saw Clearfleau and
Diageo Scotland named Best Project, for an on-site AD plant at the Dailuaine
Distillery in Speyside. We hope this innovative project will encourage other
distillers, as well as Scottish food and drink processors, to look at the energy
potential of their production residues and co-products, comments Craig
Chapman, Chief Executive of Clearfleau.
www.clearfleau.com
www.scottishrenewables.com
See feature, Small scale AD, p8
A report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation has focused

on Wales for a regional study into the benefits of the
circular economy. Commissioned by WRAP on behalf
of the Welsh Government to coincide with WRAP
Cymrus Circular Economy in Action conference, the
Jamie Butterworth
report suggests that the circular economy could deliver
manifold benefits for Wales, including the potential for job creation, a
positive economic climate and cost savings throughout industry. Jamie
Butterworth, Chief Executive of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, comments:
This study outlines the strong commitment already made by Wales towards
effective resource management, and shows that the country is ideally placed
to capitalise on these fertile system conditions to kickstart a new cycle of
economic development through circular practices.
www.wrapcymru.org.uk
To download a free copy of the report go to www.wrap.org.uk/walesandce
Northern Ireland to benefit from collective

action on food waste
Food waste recycling services

reach 1m Scottish households
Over one million households in Scotland now
have a service to collect and recycle their food
waste. With new Scottish waste regulations
now in force, the latest statistics from Zero
Waste Scotland show steady progress in
household recycling rates thanks to 20m of
investment since 2010. Measures include 2m
towards trials of recycling incentive schemes
and facilities, with almost 3,000 new recycling
points installed in the last 12 months. In addition, the Scottish Environment
Protection Agency (SEPA), supported by funding from the European LIFE+
Programme, has launched its Discover Data tool, which displays current and
historic household waste statistics from Scotlands 32 local authority areas.
www.bit.ly/1cQzzn3
www.zerowastescotland.org.uk
A conference organised by WRAP, Business in the Community and Northern

Ireland Environment Link has set out practical steps to reduce and prevent
food waste in Northern Ireland, for the benefit of the regions economy and
environment. Too Good to Waste: Realising the Value of Food examined the
true costs of food waste throughout the supply chain from field to fork. Dr
Liz Goodwin, Chief Executive of WRAP, notes: Wasting food is quite literally
wasting money, so I urge business and industry across Northern Ireland to
work together to tackle this costly issue.
www.wrap.org.uk
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Small scale AD
Small scale AD takes a

giant leap forward
hese are buoyant times for the UK AD industry; how many other
sectors can boast 36% annual growth, or 265% growth in just four
years? More exciting still is the fact that this growth is taking place at
a range of scales innovation and increased affordability is now making even
small scale AD (up to 250 kW) an attractive proposition for a variety of
end-users, including farmers, communities, and food & drink businesses keen
to exploit its commercial, waste management and environmental benefits.
Benefits to farmers
On-farm AD is perhaps the most well known application of small scale

technology in the UK, but according to respected environmental campaigner
and sustainability advisor Tony Juniper, theres still plenty of room for further
growth: One area where there is huge scope for rapid expansion is with
small units serving individual farms, explains Tony. At farm level, AD can
simultaneously help to cut pollution from slurry getting into water courses,
build up soil fertility with nutrients recovered from organic wastes and, of
course, generate energy. All of this can help farms to control costs while
helping society meet climate change targets, at the same time as saving
resources. These benefits are echoed by Cath Anthony, Rural Surveyor for
Bidwells, who adds: Small scale AD provides numerous opportunities,
including improved
waste management,
energy production,
green credentials,
increased fertiliser value
and new diversified
income streams.
It is therefore unsurprising that for a growing number of UK farmers, AD has

become the natural next step. David Findlay owns Rainton Farm, a 340 hectare
mixed livestock farm in south west Scotland, and recently invested in a
25 kW AgriDigestore from Marches Biogas, which he feeds with cattle slurry
and grass silage. The AgriDigestore components have been designed to allow
slurry storage tanks of different capacity and construction to be transformed
into anaerobic digesters, bringing down the cost of on-farm AD. For less
capital cost than our 50 kW wind turbine, and delivering three times the
electrical power, we converted our slurry tower into an anaerobic digester (with
no planning issues) and now generate enough electricity and hot water to run
the dairy, significantly enhancing the fertiliser value of our slurry and reducing
its pollution potential, while cutting our greenhouse gas emissions and energy
use substantially," says David.
Another small scale innovation is a system from fre-energy that resolves the
main problem typically associated with on-farm AD, namely the processing of
grit-laden slurries and waste crops. The brainchild of Wrexham farmer Richard
Tomlinson, of Lodge Farm, fre-energys patented auto de-gritting and gas
activated mixing technology ensures the digester can be run continuously, at
fre-energys on-farm AD
system resolves the problem of
processing grit-laden feedstock
The AgriDigestore,
from Marches Biogas,
transforms slurry storage
tanks into digesters
8
The novel tubular

digester at the Centre for
Process Innovations AD
Development Centre
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Small scale AD
Farm Gas Powers scaled down
automatic de-gritting system
maximum capacity. The benefits to Richard

and Lodge Farm are multiple: reduced
energy bills; fertiliser cost savings of
approximately 340 per tonne; an additional
income stream from exporting the surplus
energy; reduced carbon footprint and
farm methane emissions; improved land
fertility and productivity; energy security;
and sustainable management of slurry and
waste crops. The fre-energy AD system
has the potential to significantly reduce the
environmental impact of the agricultural
industry whilst contributing greatly to the
long term financial security of the farming
community, concludes Richard.
Innovations in on-farm AD
This kind of innovative approach to small scale AD is being encouraged by

WRAP through its Driving Innovation in AD (DIAD) programme, now in its
second phase; Farm Gas Power received funding to complete a proposal
to scale down automatic de-gritting for use in small farm AD systems and
further improve digester performance and economics through SIDOM (surface
intensification of digestible organic matter) maceration. The second round
of funding was used to demonstrate how the system will achieve capital and
operational cost savings through a low parasitic load, reduced tank size,
increased gas yield (>10%) and access to a wider range of feedstocks.
Other projects within the DIAD Phase II programme include the Methanogen
Drygestore, a scaled down digester proposal, designed to anaerobically digest
and store high dry matter farm substrates, particularly farmyard manure.
Targeting the 50-150 dairy cow enterprise, the system is designed to work in
semi-batch mode, in line with typical farm mucking out and spreading regimes.
Evergreen Gas was awarded a grant under WRAPs DIAD programme
to procure and evaluate the operations and economics of biogas upgrade
for vehicle fuel at small scale. Following the installation of a low pressure
upgrade unit from Metener, scaled to enable AD plant operators and farmers
to make and store their own vehicle fuel at a cost proportionate to the scale
of production, Evergreen Gas now runs two VW Caddy vans on this fuel. The
company is also the exclusive UK and Ireland agent for Metener biogas upgrade
technology, which will be marketed in conjunction with the Evergreen Gas
range of small scale AD plants.
Evergreen Gas runs two VW Caddy vans

on biogas upgraded to vehicle fuel
Meanwhile, as part of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, the Centre for
Process Innovation (CPI) has received funding from the Technology Strategy
Board to carry out a proof of concept project into a novel reactor design,
seeking to prove that its small scale tubular technology is more efficient, less
expensive and takes up less space than traditional continuously stirred tank
reactors. If successful, the project could accelerate AD deployment by reducing
start-up costs and also provide a modular option to increase capacity as and
when needed. Work has already begun on commissioning the test unit at
CPIs AD Development Centre. This project is classically high risk pushing
the boundaries to see if things can be improved and we are fortunate to
have Technology Strategy Board support to make this possible, states Steve
Broome, Head of Business and Projects for CPI.
Industrial and
community uses
With a significant amount

of R&D taking place at
small scale level, there are
opportunities for a variety
of end-users to benefit from
AD, not least food and drink
companies and the hospitality
industry. In a collaborative
SEaBs Flexibuster is being used by Best Western
approach between the Best
to
turn waste food and drink into renewable energy
Western Chilworth Manor
Hotel and the University of
Southampton Science Park, kitchen food waste, cooking oil and spent alcoholic
drinks are collected and, together with waste from the grounds, processed
through the Flexibuster, an 8 kW containerised CHP unit from SEaB.
Electricity and heat generated from the biogas production is used within the
Science Park offices and R&D laboratories, whilst the liquid digestate is used
by a local turfing and landscaping company.
Another business benefitting from on-site AD is Diageo, which
commissioned Clearfleau to build an AD facility at its Dailuaine distillery
in Speyside. The plant converts over 1,000m3 per day of dilute whisky
co-products into green electricity, cleansed process water and heat for
the distillery, and the company is now looking at other renewable energy
projects. We are committed to making our business as sustainable as
possible and are very proud to be making great strides in introducing
innovative renewable energy solutions in our Scotch whisky operations,
says Sean Pritchard, Technical Manager for Diageo. In 2013, Clearfleau also
completed the commissioning and process optimisation phase for Nestl's
on-site AD plant at their Fawdon manufacturing facility in Newcastle. The
plant handles effluents and confectionery residues, to include equipment
that dissolves sugars and fats so liquid feedstock can be pumped into the
digestion system.
Continued>>
Clearfleau has installed

an on-site AD facility at
Diageos Dailuaine distillery
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Technology focus: Digestate
10
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Small scale AD
But alongside industrial
and farm uses, AD
is also benefitting
whole communities,
both in the UK and
the developing world.
Based in Camden,
London, the LEAP
micro AD project sees
food waste from local
LEAPs 2m3 community digester is situated in an urban
hotels, restaurants
nature
reserve in Camden, North London
and canteens collected by
3
bicycle and fed to a 2m
community digester. Located on an
urban nature reserve, the resulting
heat and electricity is used
on-site and the project also aims to
generate employment opportunities
and develop a closed loop
recycling educational programme
for the local community. Stefan
Geyer, Manager of the nearby St
Athans Hotel, which supplies food
waste to the digester, enthuses:
This project works on many
levels we jumped at being able to
support it. It should be the model
for every local area.
Food waste is collected by bike from local
businesses as part of the LEAP community
Loowatt, meanwhile, has
AD project
developed a patented waterless
toilet system that seals human
waste into biodegradable polymer film for anaerobic digestion. Combining
an odour-free, hygienic toilet experience with a closed loop waste treatment
system that also generates energy, the Loowatt Event System, designed for
events and festivals, will travel the UK in 2014, while the company is also
piloting systems in Madagascar. In Kenya, Takamoto has developed an
innovative pay as you go biogas technology for farmers, who pay a small
installation fee then only pay for the gas they need, when they need it. I feed the
biogas system every day with cow dung and water and just top up my biogas
credit with my phone whenever I want, explains Takamoto client Hannah
Kagotho. With 100 Kenyan families now benefitting from pay as you go biogas,
the scheme is expected to expand into further countries and communities over
the coming years.
Loowatt has combined

toilet facilities with a
waste treatment system
that generates energy
Funding small scale AD
While pay as you go biogas may still be some way off for UK farmers, raising
the finance needed to develop a small scale AD project closer to home may not
be as challenging as first thought, despite the impending Feed-in Tariff (FIT)
degression, explains Bruce Nelson, Director of Compass Renewables:
While the forthcoming FIT degression was having a negative effect on lenders,
news of the fast-track review had been well received. However, it seems the
considerable number of pre-accreditations received in December has led to
this review being delayed. So whilst government appears to have listened to
the AD community and was seeking to minimise the impact that degression
would have, we will now have to wait and see how this plays out. In general,
however, the funding community is more able to get its head around the lower
costs associated with small scale AD (typically 0.75m-1.2m) its a scale of
investment they seem comfortable with.
In addition to FIT and private funding options, there are also grants available
to encourage small scale development. Partly in response to the EcoSystems
Market Task Force report, Realising natures value, which cited encouraging
anaerobic digestion on farms as its second major recommendation, Defra
has launched the On-Farm AD Loan Fund, in partnership with WRAP. The
On-Farm AD Loan Fund is a 3m pot that will provide two types of support
for farmers who want to invest in small scale AD (up to 250 kW) using
predominately farm wastes as feedstocks, explains Mike Falconer Hall,
Organics and Energy Programme Manager at WRAP. The primary objective
of the fund is to support an increase in small scale, sub 250 kW on-farm AD
capacity. The first pot, launched last October, is a grant of up to 10,000 per
farm to cover the costs of an initial business development plan to investigate
the commercial and environmental benefits of building an AD plant. If the farm
then struggles to attract finance, farmers can apply for a loan of up to 400,000,
or a maximum of 50% of the capital costs, towards development of the plant.
Do your homework
However, Cath Anthony is keen to point out that any AD development needs
to be carefully thought through: Many people jump into projects without
considering their true feasibility and viability, or take the wrong advice. Even
at small scale, AD is a complex technology with many factors to take into
consideration and the site-specific nature of AD means that, in every case,
it is essential to carry out a full feasibility study. With a wide variety of AD
solutions available, would-be developers are advised to seek professional,
independent advice before considering embarking on any AD venture. To this
end, ADBA has developed the Farmers Consultancy Service, which offers
free, independent advice through its consultant members to help farmers and
landowners decide whether AD is a viable option for their business. AD is a
big investment at any scale and most farmers considering it will be stepping
outside of their comfort zone, warns Bruce Nelson. The Farmers Consultancy
Continued>>
Takamotos pay as you go biogas system is having a big impact on the lives of Kenyan
famers and their families
www.adbiogas.co.uk
11
Small scale AD
Service is a great first port of call for
farmers who want to learn more about
the viability of AD for their site, providing
straight answers from AD experts who
will give them a good steer on what is
and isnt going to work.
A bright future
Angus Thomas Photography
While the UKs small scale AD sector is

a long way off saturation point, astute
New waste legislation coming into
cleantech companies are already looking
force in Brazil makes the region
towards the next big trends. One area
perfect for AD development
in which the growing UK cleantech
industry is now perfectly placed to help is disaster recovery particularly those
nations which are prone to natural disasters as sources of alternative power
and access to food and fresh water are some of the most urgent requirements
following a disaster, explains Sandra Sassow, SEaB Chief Executive. Our
micro power plants are housed in shipping containers, making them ideal for
transport into disaster zones, and can be ready to generate energy within a few
hours of landing.
SEaBs Sandra Sassow
12
There are also other opportunities on the horizon;

over the last few months fre-energy has been
asked to make presentations on its AD system
to representatives of farming, environmental and
academic communities from a number of European
countries, and has hosted visits by UK and EC
governments to its site at Lodge Farm. Sandra
Sassow also sees a strong export market for UK technology in Latin America:
As well as the US, where we already have a distributor in place, we have seen
huge market opportunities for small scale AD in Brazil. The countrys new waste
legislation and preference for decentralised power has convinced us to establish
an operation in Sao Paulo this year, in partnership with a local distributor. We
also see potential in Argentina and Chile unlike Brazil, there are no legislative
drivers in place as yet but the demand for self-sustainable forms of power in
remote areas is huge. With the UKs thriving culture of innovation in small scale
AD development showing no sign of diminishing, the potential for further growth,
both at home and abroad, is almost limitless. Viable, small scale AD looks set to
continue benefitting both planet and pocket for a whole range of different
end-users for many years to come.
www.bidwells.co.uk
www.marchesbiogas.co.uk
www.fre-energy.co.uk
www.farmgaspower.com
www.wrap.org.uk
www.evergreengas.co.uk
www.uk-cpi.com
www.seabenergy.com
www.clearfleau.com
www.loowatt.com
www.compassbusinessfinance.co.uk
Further Information
Want to find out if AD is a good fit for your farm business? See p38 for
more details about our Farmers Consultancy Service or apply for your
free consultation at http://bit.ly/1lEmDVo
To find out more about the On-Farm AD Loan Fund go to
www.wrap.org.uk/content/farm-ad-fund
www.adbiogas.co.uk
www.adbiogas.co.uk
13
Government & Agency News
Mayor of London launches 1m

business food waste scheme
London Mayor Boris Johnson recently launched the FoodSave project in
a bid to prevent 1,000 tonnes of food waste being sent to landfill. Funded
by the Mayor, the London Waste and Recycling Board and the European
Regional Development Fund, the FoodSave project will support 240 small
and medium sized food businesses in London to reduce food waste, aiming to
achieve savings of 360,000 by March 2015. The Mayor is working with the
Sustainable Restaurant Association, and Sustain: the alliance for better food and
farming, to deliver the project. FoodSave is a brilliant initiative that can help
businesses reduce their food waste disposal costs and become more efficient,
says Boris Johnson.
CIWM urges collective

action on waste prevention
EU Skills targets
UKs natural gas
vehicle industry
The Chartered Institution

of Wastes Management
(CIWM) has commented on
the publication of England's
Waste Prevention Programme
report, Prevention is Better than
Cure, highlighting in particular
the absence of any annual
milestones and targets to reduce
waste. We see a commitment
to developing metrics by the
end of next year and CIWM will
commit to support that vital
work, but crucially there is still
nothing on reduction targets
or new approaches to measurement, notes CIWM Chief Executive Steve Lee,
adding: This is a programme we hope will be refined and improved in the light of
experience and new information, particularly from Wales and Scotland who have
taken a more proactive and ambitious approach.
A UK Market Review exploring the role of natural gas in road transport and
its impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions has been published by
Energy & Utility Skills (EU Skills). The skills council has also established
a Natural Gas Vehicle Network to provide training support for growth to
small and medium sized businesses working in the NGV sector.
www.networks.euskills.co.uk/your-industry/ngv
However, with an emphasis on reduction, redesign, re-use, repair and rethinking,

the report has been viewed as a starting point by CIWM, which has now urged
industry to work together going forward. This industry, together with its new
partners elsewhere in the resources cycle, needs to commit to working on the
basics such as data gathering and analysis, as well as driving for early wins in
areas such as re-use, comments Steve. It is time for us to learn and improve
collectively rather than turning our backs because we don't see everything we
wanted in version 1.0.
www.ciwm-journal.co.uk/archives/5376
HSE appoints new

Head of Waste and
Recycling
New appointments for LARAC

The Local Authority Recycling Advisory Committee (LARAC) has appointed
Lee Marshall as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective from April 2014. Lee
Marshall has been involved in waste management in the public sector for more
than 15 years, including positions with Stratford, Coventry, Woking and Powys
councils. Nominations are also being sought for a new Chair, following the
resignation of Joy Blizzard after ten years with the organisation.
www.larac.org.uk
14
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has appointed Rick Brunt as its new
Head of Waste and Recycling. Replacing Graeme Walker, who retires after
37 years of service, Rick will work closely with the waste and recycling
industry, leading a unit of inspectors, policy officials and support staff.
www.hse.gov.uk
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Government & Agency News
www.adbiogas.co.uk
15
ADBA National Conference 2013 review
Sponsored by:
Conference speakers urge government

to look beyond energy production
he anaerobic digestion industry has

the potential to deliver to the UK a
whole host of benefits not just
energy generation. That was the key message
from ADBAs National Conference 2013, held
last December in Westminster, London, and
attended by hundreds of delegates including
AD operators, government representatives,
industry experts, academics and press.
Titled Can we afford not to recycle phosphates?,
speakers at the annual event were keen to push
government to increase focus on the wider
benefits of AD, with debates centering on ADs
potential to recycle valuable nutrients, alongside
developing a demand for biomethane, shaping the direction of current food waste
policy, demonstrating good operational performance and land bank availability.
The importance of nutrients
Chairing the mornings main debate, Can we afford not to recycle nutrients
and organic matter?, Tony Juniper, sustainability and environmental advisor
and author of the influential book, What Has Nature Ever Done For Us?,
stated: With an estimated 9bn people on the planet by 2050, there will be
more demand for food, energy and resources than ever before, meaning that
we must move towards a circular economy. AD has immense potential. Yet,
as the speakers recognised, the driver for AD remains focused on renewable
energy, with Patrick Holden, Founding Director of the Sustainable Food Trust,
noting the lack of a business case for nutrient recycling. The debates other
speakers James Murcott of Methanogen, Rembrandt Koppelaar of Imperial
College London, Michael Chesshire of Evergreen Gas and Dr Alan Knight of
Business in the Community were clear that if AD is to reach its full potential,
government must acknowledge these additional benefits and support AD
accordingly: Nutrient costs will not rise sufficiently, so support needs to be
on a carbon basis there is a huge carbon cost in current forms of nutrient
supply, remarked Rembrandt Koppelaar.
Biogas is a growing market for us and we were

pleased to make some useful contacts
at the conference, and receive some
interesting enquiries.
Nick Burley,Weightron Bilanciai Ltd
16
Banning food waste to landfill
The events afternoon breakout sessions opened with a debate on whether food
waste policy can keep up with industry growth. Louise McGregor of Zero Waste
Scotland spoke about how devolved policy has led to a landfill ban on food
waste, effective from 2021, whilst also warning that some Scottish AD plants
are experiencing overcapacity. As expected, Defras Dr Colin Church confirmed
that there were no immediate plans for England to follow Scotlands lead by
implementing its own landfill ban, stating that there were concerns about the
enforceability and socio-economic viability of such legislation. However, with
Mark Hogan of Kier Services admitting that non-legislative issues tend to fall
off the table early in discussions with local authorities, the AD industry is still
pushing for an outright ban on sending food waste to landfill in England as the
only way to really address the problem of food waste and ensure that valuable
nutrients, including phosphates, are recycled.
We had discussions with a wide variety

of people at the event, including existing
and potential suppliers, which helps us
to strengthen our supply chain. From a
networking/business development point of view, it was
also helpful to meet new clients and possible investors.
Derek Gibbons, Jones Celtic BioEnergy
www.adbiogas.co.uk
ADBA National Conference 2013 review
Chris Huhne joins ADBA
ADBA's National Conference also saw Chris Huhne, former Secretary of State
for Energy and Climate Change, unveiled as ADBAs Strategic Adviser. Our
Chief Executive Charlotte Morton commented: I am delighted that Chris
Huhne will be working with ADBA to help us develop the best strategic position
for the AD industry. Chris obviously brings a wealth of experience from his
time as Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Shadow Secretary
of State for the Environment and as an MEP. Renewable energy support is
clearly set to be a major issue in the run up to the next election, and indeed in
Europe, and Chriss help demonstrating the very significant value anaerobic
digestion delivers will make a real difference.
Underlining his passion for renewables, Chris Huhne told the events delegates:
Lets knock on the head the idea that the UK is going further or faster than
our European neighbours on renewables this is simply not true. Of all the
major Member States, the UK has the lowest renewable energy target. But it
is fundamentally wrong to say we shouldnt be in the lead. It is very important
that green businesses stand up to be counted. If we dont have green growth
we wont have any growth at all. Renewables are the future.
Raising operational standards
How to demonstrate good operational performance was the focus of another of

the afternoons breakout debates, with experts including Adrian Judge, formerly
of the Green Investment Bank, Bruce Nelson, Director of Compass Renewables,
and Alexander Madden of Agrivert discussing the ways in which performance
can be measured and how the industry can continue to raise its operational
efficiency, with a view to encouraging further investment into the sector.
Debate centred on how to mitigate the risk of plant underperformance following
commissioning, with speakers highlighting the importance of an experienced
project team, including advisors/consultants; appropriate technology; reliable
arrangements for feedstock; properly trained/experienced operators; ongoing
biology monitoring; programmed maintenance; and a clear ability to move
and/or spread digestate. While its normal in the first year to produce more
erratic performance data, this will usually even out and, providing these areas
have been addressed, the overall trend should move towards a good, or at
least acceptable, level, stated Bruce Nelson. For on-farm developments,
experts from ADBAs Farmers Consultancy Service would be able to address

these issues at an early stage of a project, helping to mitigate the risk of
underperformance, added Bruce.
Incentivising biomethane use
A briefing on the FIT degression consultation, led by ADBAs Matt Hindle and
Katie Halter of DECC, was followed by a debate around the developing demand
for biomethane, during which expert speakers including Paul Densham of
Sainsburys and Rob Wood of Gasrec highlighted the need to ensure that the
direct use of biomethane in transport and grid injection are incentivised equally.
Meanwhile, a separate breakout session saw Pete Pearce of Thames Water and
WRAPs Will McManus debate the impact of industry growth and changing
regulations on land bank availability with fellow industry experts, with issues
including digestate storage, spreading best practice and NVZ high on the agenda.
ADBA consistently brings all the right people

together for this highly focused, professional
event. The speakers were first class and it
was certainly very positive to hear about
the lessons that are being learned in the UK about
equipment specification.
As always, the ADBA National Conference

delivered great presentations, engaging
debates, and thought provoking take aways,
as well as a good opportunity to network with
clients, suppliers and old colleagues its an annual
must do for us. We also made some interesting contacts
in terms of nutrient recovery, an area thats not had the
spotlight thus far, but which offers significant opportunity.
Hugh Vaughan, Landia
Kevin Clarke, Imtech Water, Waste & Energy
www.adbiogas.co.uk
17
Technology focus: Tanks

Steel tanks can be constructed as follows:
Epoxy or glass coated steel plates (bolted)
Triple glass coated steel (bolted) for maximum
chemical resistance
Pre-coated steel fabricated on-site using lip
sealing machine
Black (mild) steel, painted and insulated
Coated steel tank

from Galglass
Why selecting the

right tank can
equal AD success
s the largest and often most expensive part of an AD plant, selecting the right tank
for your project is crucial to its success. But with so many variations on the market,
it can be difficult to know where to begin, particularly for first-time AD developers.
In this article, Dr Les Gornall, Process Consultant for PROjEN, provides an overview
of the different types of tank available and what to ask any would-be supplier before we
take a look at some of our members latest tank-related projects and innovations.
The UK AD industry is building hundreds of
tanks a year, each one defined by process needs
and often limited by planning permission and
soil strength. Containing thousands of cubic
metres of organic materials, structural integrity
is paramount; tanks support technical equipment
and can have as many as 30 penetrations and
nozzles fitted.
There are three main types of tank available; above
ground, underground and semi-submerged.
Above ground tanks are usually the cheapest to
erect leaks are easy to detect and fixing nozzles
for instruments is simple. However, planners may
insist on a visual bund or shelter belt and could
also limit the tanks height. The walls and roof
can be constructed from concrete, steel or plastic,
although the roof can also be made from fibreglass
or constructed as a textile double skin inflatable
gas dome.
Concrete tanks can be constructed as follows:

Precast panels wrapped with cables that are
tensioned after erection
Cast with single pour moving mould
Shuttered with bolted shuttering
Top tips
A lways double check the steel
reinforcement calculations.
If air is found in a concrete wall when the
moulds are removed, break out the affected
area the same day before the concrete cures
to full strength.
C
utting holes through the post-tensioned
cables of precast tanks reduces the strength
of the tank considerably.
Sealing concrete flat roof structures is not
easy in practice if the gas content is under
pressure, so ensure the tank manufacturer
provides an adequate guarantee that includes
gas tight tops as well as hydraulic integrity.
Construction of
A-Consult's sludge
holding tanks
18
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Top tips
Glass coated steel tanks are generally thicker,
heavier and more expensive than epoxy
painted tanks more aggressive chemicals
may benefit from triple glass coated steel.
All steel tanks collapse easily with negative
pressure that may be created by sealing all
the tank instrument ports with blank flanges
in the daytime and cooling the sealed tank at
night.
Mild steel anaerobic insulated tanks have
been very successful in Danish digesters.
Underground tanks minimise visual impact and
can be easier to maintain. However, consideration
must be given to access into underground tanks
and safe systems of work put in place.
Top tips
The Environment Agency (EA) may require
a method of catching underground seeps
and leaks, and of monitoring the quality and
quantity of any leaks.
The land area required is normally larger than
for vertical above ground tanks.
Empty underground tanks will bounce out
of the ground if emptied in soil with a high
water table.
Semi-submerged tanks benefit from the heat
insulation from the soil and can be finished with
a glass reinforced plastic top with an external gas
bag, or constructed with a textile gas bag top.
Lagged concrete digester with separate gas
bag, reflected in an open sludge tank

Questions to consider before
selecting your tank
The efusionTM system
from Galglass promises
a more robust and
better-performing tank
ADBA members at the forefront

of tank innovation
Glass coated steel may have enjoyed the

monopoly of the coated steel tank market so far,
but the efusionTM system from Galglass Ltd,
which uses the very latest developments in tank
coating technology, has become a fully accepted
alternative. The companys trade marked efusionTM
epoxy coating an electrostatically applied
thermally bonded coating, fully tested in line
with water industry standards promises to be
more robust and perform better than traditional
alternatives, resulting in a longer product life span.
Suitable for a variety of applications ranging from
1. Are there any planning limits that could exclude vertical designs?
2. What are the likely capex and opex?
3. Will the tank be the right fit for your AD process? Acid hydrolysis needs an acid resistant tank;
thermophilic operation may not be suitable for plastic tanks and some GRP components.
4. Who is building the tank base? It may be better to include the base of the tank with the tank purchase
order, leaving a single expert company to assure the quality of the finished tank with its base.
5. Do you need a bund? Depending on the location, the EA may insist tanks are built in a bunded area
that will contain 110% of the volume of the largest tank, which may prove expensive.
potable water through to AD, Galglass epoxy tanks
are produced at the companys on-site bespoke
coating facility at its UK head office.
Working closely with fellow ADBA member
Marches Biogas, A-Consult has installed the first
circular pre-cast tank plug flow system, helping
AD operators to maximise the gas yield potential
from their feedstock. The success of this first
project has prompted a number of other sites
to adopt the technology, with more installations
scheduled for 2014. Another of A-Consults recent
projects includes the replacement of an ageing
steel digester for a client in Devon. Following the
www.adbiogas.co.uk
casting of a concrete base plate, the new 12m high

tank was installed over a five-day period, with a
double membrane gas-tight roof with integrated
service boxes completing the works. The company
has also developed a composite sectional precast
concrete gas-tight roof: incorporating internal
insulation to help maintain the digesters operating
temperature, the roof is installed with a cast-in
liner to protect concrete surfaces within the
gasification zone whilst ensuring all seals are
gas-tight. The roof can also provide openings to
support mixers and pressure plates, and allows
safe and easy access for maintenance.
Continued>>
19

The last quarter of 2013 saw Kirk
Environmental expand its tank range with the
Aqua Tank, a pre-cast concrete tank for the UK
water and wastewater treatments industry. This
latest offering means that Kirk now provides
every tank type available in the UK market, with
clients able to choose from concrete tanks either
constructed on-site or pre-cast or steel tanks,
available as either glass fused to steel, epoxy
coated steel, stainless steel or a hybrid, to suit
different operational conditions in the liquid and
gas phases of the digester. When it comes to tank
selection, we are in a position where we can sit

with any client and offer independent, impartial
advice on product selection for their AD plant,
explains Andrew Peace, Managing Director. We
find that a combination of all the above tank
material types gives the client the best commercial
and asset life advantages.
Meanwhile, poured in situ concrete tank specialist

Monostore has just completed its latest biogas
tank installation in Upton Magna, Shrewsbury.
The three tank, 380 kW plant handles a feedstock
mix of 50% maize,
30% silage and 20%
chicken litter and
was completed on
time and on budget.
Offering above
ground, underground
or semi-submerged
tanks, Monostores
in-house designers and
engineers work closely
with clients to provide
bespoke solutions;
and as Mark Tuson,
UK Sales Manager,
Kirk Environmental now offers the entire range of tanks available to the UK market
explains, safety is
Recent projects from A-Consult include a 12m high

tank with a double membrane gas-tight roof, for a
client in Devon
paramount: As our tanks are all poured in situ, the

client is left with one complete structure, meaning
there are no joins or seals and therefore no weak
spots. Not only does this make our tanks robust
and reliable, but also completely safe. Unlike some
other tank suppliers, we can also take care of the
foundations, as well as installing insulation and
cladding, reducing the need to involve another
sub-contractor.
www.projen.co.uk
www.galglass.co.uk
www.aconsult.co.uk
www.kirk-environmental.com
www.monostore.com
Waste Water Treatment
Biogas Installations
Foundation + Tanks + Covers
Independent Tank Installer

Full service design & build
Concrete tanks in-situ
Insulation & cladding
Piled foundations if required
Flat or conical concrete roofs
Fabric membrane gas roofs
Waste Water Treatment

Biogas installations
Slurry tanks, leachate
Drinking water storage
Monostore Ltd
T. (+44) 0330 8080021
M. (+44) 07733 264748

E. enquiries@monostore.com
W. www.monostore.com
20
www.adbiogas.co.uk
www.adbiogas.co.uk
21
Plant update
2014 A national AD network
Despite the greenest government ever remaining largely silent on both the commercial and
environmental benefits of the circular economy, it has been an incredible 12 months for the UK
anaerobic digestion industry, which has seen 36% annual growth. As of January 2014, there were 125
AD plants in operation throughout the UK, including community, agricultural, industrial and municipal
facilities, proving that AD has a role to play at every level and as our snapshot of some of the
projects planned for 2014 shows, that figure is rising fast. With FIT degression for sub 500 kW plants
now under review, we hope that 2014 is the year that government finally recognises, and supports, AD
at every scale.
1 Diageo Glendullan
Location: Dufftown, Aberdeen

Current stage: Under construction
Input: Distillery waste
Output: 0.5 MW
Projected completion: June 2014
ADBA member involvement: Equipment supplied by
Kirk Environmental
Info supplied by: Kirk Environmental
2 Alauna Renewable
Energy
Location: Millerhill, Midlothian

Current stage: Preferred bidder, construction due to start
February 2014
Input: 30,000 tpa of food waste
Output: 1.4 MW
Projected completion: End of 2015
ADBA member involvement: Design and build
by Biogen
Info supplied by: Biogen and Alauna Renewable Energy
3 Wardley
Location: Gateshead, Tyne & Wear

Current stage: In development
Input: Food waste
Output: 2 MW
Projected completion: 2015
ADBA member involvement: Owner/operator
Tamar Energy
Info supplied by: Tamar Energy
4 Wilcross Farm
Location: Gisburn, Lancashire

Input: Slurry and crops
Output: 1 MW
Projected completion: June 2014
Kirk Environmental
6 ReFood
Doncaster
Location: Doncaster,
South Yorkshire
Current stage:
Redevelopment work to
commence January 2014 (to
increase capacity of existing facility by 100%)
Input: 160,000 tpa of commercial and domestic food
waste
Output: 5 MWh
Projected completion: Summer 2014
ADBA member involvement: Owner/operator ReFood
Info supplied by: ReFood
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
12
11
18 19
8 ReFood
Widnes
Location: Widnes,
Cheshire
Current stage:
Under construction; gas to
grid system being installed April 2014
Input: 90,000 tpa of commercial and domestic food waste
Output: 1,500m3 (17 MWh) of biogas per hour (to be
exported to the national gas grid)
Projected completion: Summer 2014
ADBA member involvement: Owner/operator ReFood;
gas to grid system supplied by Chesterfield BioGas
20
21
23
Location: Retford,
Nottinghamshire
Current stage:
Commissioning
Input: Maize, manures and other agricultural waste
Output: 3 MW
Projected completion: Early 2014
ADBA member involvement: Owner/operator Tamar
Energy; technology supplied by Xergi; biogas engine
supplied by Clarke Energy
14
16
15
25
7 Retford
13
29
26
22
24
27
28
30
10 AEL Biogas
Location: East Kirkby, Lincolnshire

Current stage: Commissioning
Input: Agricultural products
Output: 1.2 MW
Projected completion: Now complete
ADBA member involvement: Design, build and EPC
(including AD technology) FLI Energy
Info supplied by: FLI Energy
11 Merevale
Location: Baxterley, Warwickshire

Output: 2 MW
Projected completion: September 2015
ADBA member involvement: Designer, builder, owner/
operator Biogen
Info supplied by: Biogen
9 Waen
5 Bury
Location: Bury, Greater Manchester

Input: Food waste
Output: 2 MW
ADBA member involvement: Owner/operator
Tamar Energy
22
Location: nr St Asaph,
Denbighshire
Current stage:
Under construction
Output: 1 MW
Projected completion: July 2014
operator Biogen
www.adbiogas.co.uk
12 Wanlip STW
Location: Leicester
Input: Sewage sludge
Output: 3 MW
Projected completion: April 2014
Kirk Environmental
17
Plant update
13 Holbeach
Location: Spalding, Lincolnshire

Current stage: Operational
Input: Vegetable waste and maize
Output: 1.5 MW
Energy; technology supplied by Xergi; biogas engine
14 Crows Hall
19 Hoddesdon
Location: Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire

Input: Food waste
Output: 3 MW
ADBA member involvement:
Owner/operator Tamar Energy
20 Halstead
Location: Attleborough, Norfolk

Input: Maize and agricultural products
Output: 1.5 MW
Projected completion: Now complete
(including AD technology) FLI Energy
Location: Halstead, Essex

Input: Food waste
Output: 2 MW
Projected completion: Mid 2014
Energy; technology supplied by Monsal; biogas engine
15 Cranford AD Ltd
21 Bryn Pica
Location: Northamptonshire
Input: Whole crop wheat, maize
and grass
Output: 125 kW
Projected completion: Feb 2014
ADBA member involvement: Design, build and
commissioning Evergreen Gas
Info supplied by: Evergreen Gas
16 Euston Biogas
Location: Thetford, Norfolk

Output: 1,200 m3/hr biogas upgrading
(including AD technology) FLI Energy; owner/operator
Strutt and Parker Farms
17 Ellough
Biogas
Location: Ellough, Suffolk

Projected completion: August 2014
(including AD technology) FLI Energy; owner/operator
Biocore Environmental; biogas upgrading equipment
supplied by Chesterfield BioGas
18 Bygrave
Location: Baldock, Hertfordshire

Output: 2.2 MW
Projected completion: November 2014
operator Biogen
Location: Llwydcoed, Aberdare

Output: 1 MW
Projected completion: July 2015
operator Biogen
22 ReFood
Dagenham
Location: London Sustainable

Industries Park (LSIP),
Dagenham, Essex
Input: 160,000 tpa of commercial and domestic food waste
Output: 2,000m3 (22.7 MWh) of biogas per hour (to be
exported to the national gas grid)
Projected completion: Spring 2015
ADBA member involvement: Owner/operator ReFood
23 Basingstoke
Location: Basingstoke, Hampshire

Current stage: Operational
Input: Food and agricultural waste
Output: 1.5 MW
Energy; design, build and EPC (including AD technology)
FLI Energy; biogas engine supplied by Clarke Energy
Info supplied by: Tamar Energy, FLI Energy
24 Agrivert
West London
Location: Chertsey, Surrey

Input: Food waste
Output: 2.4 MW
Projected completion: Jan 2014
ADBA member involvement: Design, build and
operation Agrivert; owned by Agrivert/Grundon
Info supplied by: Agrivert
www.adbiogas.co.uk
25 Evercreech
Location: Shepton Mallet, Somerset

Input: Food waste
Output: 2 MW
ADBA member involvement: Owner/operator Tamar Energy
26 Herriard Bio-Power
Location: Hampshire
Input: 30,000 tpa of farm waste,
maize, grass silage and food waste
Output: 1.2 MW
Projected completion: February 2014
ADBA member involvement: Design by Barfoots Energy
Projects; digestion technology design and construction,
food waste storage and transfer system design, and
pasteurisation, waste heat transfer and digestate handling
system by MT-Energie UK Ltd; food waste depackaging
and handling machinery by Mavitec Green Energy BV
Info supplied by: Barfoot Energy Projects
27 Charlton Lane
Eco Park
Location: Shepperton, Surrey

Output: 1.8 MW
Projected completion: TBC
ADBA member involvement: Owner/operator SITA;
technology supplier Monsal
Info supplied by: SITA
28 Bromley
Location: Bromley, Kent

Input: Food waste
Output: 2 MW
ADBA member involvement: Owner/operator Tamar Energy;
design, build and EPC (including AD technology) FLI Energy
29 Cannington
Bioenergy Phase 2
Location: Somerset
Input: Food waste
Output: 2 MW
Projected completion: February 2014
Kirk Environmental
30 Fraddon Biogas
Location: Truro, Cornwall

Input: Food industry by-products
(including AD technology) FLI Energy; owner/operator Greener
For Life Energy
23
Policy
Fuel duty
announcement
to boost gas
vehicle market
For up to the minute information and advice on

regulations, consultations and government news,
contact our Policy Manager Matt Hindle
T +44 (0)203 176 0591
E matt.hindle@adbiogas.co.uk
significant boost to the biomethane transport sector was delivered

in Decembers Autumn Statement with the announcement that the
fuel duty differential between diesel and gas will be maintained on a
ten year, rather than three year, basis. This is a sizable extension, which could
encourage investment in gas vehicles and will help to support the developing
demand for biomethane in transport, especially as part of the rationale behind
the Treasurys decision is to support decarbonisation.
We are continuing to work closely with the Department for Transport, alongside
our Transport Working Group, to support the development of governments
HGV Gas Strategy. Key issues that the Strategy is expected to cover include the
recognition of biomethane certificates for carbon transport reporting purposes,
and increasing support under the Renewable Transport Fuels Obligation (RTFO)
to bring it on parity with Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) tariffs.
A recent Defra report

has made a number of
recommendations around
improving the regulatory
framework for managing
and storing slurry, and
the provision of advice to
farmers. This is a first step
in overhauling the Silage,
Slurry and Agricultural Fuel
Oil (SSAFO) Regulations,
which govern how farmers
should store livestock slurry.
The report made a number of interesting comments regarding AD:
AD permits generally refer to appropriate construction standards,
without determining what these are. This may need to be clarified, as
digestate should be stored to the same standards that apply to slurry;
SSAFO Regulations could provide the standards to be referred to in
permits for storage, particularly for slurry and crop feedstocks. This
might require an extension to the current review of CIRIA 126, the
reference guidance for such standards, with input from EA and Defra
waste policy teams, as well as the AD industry;
Some AD units use ensiled crops as feedstock and many operators do
not understand that the storage of such feedstock is subject to SSAFO
Regulations; this needs to be addressed.
Implementation of the reports recommendations and amendments to
SSAFO regulations will take place during 2014.
24
RHI electricity only

clarification
We have received clarification from Ofgem on the treatment of existing
plants which generate electricity only, with the regulator setting out that
such facilities are eligible for RHI support provided they are converted to
also generate heat.
The definition of electricity only
does permit engines to have
cooling equipment:
Where such equipment is
necessarily installed for the
express purpose of cooling
of the plant (ie no useful
heat is produced), we would
be minded to consider this
equipment as integral to
electricity generation, and not
an indication the plant should
be considered CHP.
This may therefore allow plants
with an engine commissioned
since July 2009, and which are
not currently using their heat,
to become eligible for RHI by
converting to CHP by adding
a heat exchanger and other
associated equipment. Ofgem
has emphasised that it will
consider such plants on a case
by case basis.
www.adbiogas.co.uk
HRS Heat Exchangers
Defra report recommends

improvements to slurry
and digestate storage
Policy
CfD strike prices
confirmed
Revisions to PAS 110

With the deadline now closed for comments on the revised draft of PAS 110,
an updated version of the standard is expected to be finalised in the coming
months. We will be attending a steering group meeting in early February,
at which comments from the consultation process will be considered
and consensus reached on any changes. It is then anticipated that the
redrafted standard will be published by early April 2014 and in place shortly
afterwards, following consideration by the Environment Agency.
The Energy Act 2013 received royal assent in December, putting in place
mechanisms for the future of the electricity market. As a result, DECC has
confirmed the support rates for sewage sludge projects and AD plants over
5 MW, available under the Contracts for Difference (CfD) mechanism which will
replace the Renewables Obligation (RO) for new generation in 2017.
The CfD mechanism uses strike prices to reduce the risk of price volatility,
topping up the amount the generator receives if prices fall below this level and
requiring generators to pay back the difference if the strike price is exceeded.
Set to be on parity with Renewables Obligation (RO) support levels, CfD
contracts will be 15 years in duration, available at 15p/kWh from 2014/15 until
2017/18, when support will fall to 14p/kWh for new generators. For sewage
sludge projects, strike prices will remain at 7.5p/kWh over this same period.
There were a number of issues for operators to consider, and full details are
available at adbiogas.co.uk. Some of the key points in the draft included:
The stability test has been changed to redefine the residual biogas
potential (RBP) limit according to pig slurry this is felt to be a better
virgin comparator for food waste digestate than cattle slurry, the
comparator originally used;
Pasteurisation of manure, unprocessed crops, processed crops,
crop residues, glycerol and/or used animal bedding is not required,
as long as the resulting digestate is applied on the same premises
or holding from which those materials arose. The same exemption
applies when these materials are mixed with other feedstocks,
providing those other feedstocks have been pasteurised;
Potentially toxic elements (PTE) concentrations and physical
contaminant limits in digestate to be set on a fresh weight, rather than
dry matter basis;
The definition of a farm or holding has been extended to include
members of a co-operative, potentially extending the scope for on-farm
AD plants to transfer waste materials to a common plant for processing,
without the need for a pasteurisation step or extensive testing.
Amendments to the Energy Act attempting to insert a decarbonisation target

and apply emissions standards to existing coal-fired plants were defeated, so a
decision will be taken on whether to set a 2030 target for emissions from power
supply after the 2015 election.
Waste-only operations
no permit required
Following a consultation, Defra has confirmed that AD plants termed
waste operations under the Environmental Permitting Regulations
(EPR) will no longer need to obtain planning permission before applying
for an environmental permit, in a move intended to give maximum
flexibility to operators.
Defra confirms commitment

to food waste reduction
In its response to the consultation on the Waste Prevention Programme for England (WPPE), Defra has
confirmed that food waste remains a major focus, although governments commitment to supporting
voluntary agreements, rather than bringing in new legislation, means there are few new measures. The
document states that the department is continuing to support voluntary action focused on food waste,
including the Hospitality and Food Services Agreement, the Product Sustainability Forum, and the
Courtauld Commitment, which aims to reduce household food and drink waste by 5% by 2015 from a
2012 baseline. The document also confirms that Defra is continuing to support the work of WRAP on
food waste, putting particular emphasis on the hospitality industry.
www.adbiogas.co.uk
25
Members News & Views

Rebranded Nijhuis
Industries to focus
on innovation
Tramspreads Bagtank
a popular choice for
digestate storage
Following the expansion

of Nijhuis Water
Technology, and the
acquisition of H2OK
Water & Energy and
Excellent Ozone
Solutions, Nijhuis
Industries has introduced
a new corporate identity,
alongside a variety of
innovations and extended
service capabilities.
Nijhuis incorporates H2OK Water & Energy, which
installed a 1m AD system at Sharps Brewery in Cornwall
New systems include:
the Intelligent-DAF, a
dissolved air flotation technology combining high efficiency with low life cycle
cost; AecomixTM, an integrated anaerobic treatment system for wastewater
containing fats, oils and greases; and the Nijhuis Ammonium Recovery Unit,
which recovers ammonium from liquid waste and digestate. In addition, the
company has extended its portfolio of services, offering design and delivery
of both containerised and turnkey solutions, as well as online monitoring and
bespoke after sales services.
www.nijhuis-water.com
26
Tramspread, UK distributor for Albers Alligator slurry and digestate

storage systems, has experienced increased demand for its Bagtank
solution, which offers permanent storage of between 200m-7,000m of
digestate. The Bagtank is becoming more popular for storing digestate
due to its low visual impact and more affordable price compared to
covered tanks. As a sealed and vented store, it ensures that high fertiliser
value digestate is not diluted by rainwater, states Tramspreads John
Tydeman. The company also offers temporary digestate storage of
100m-350m via the Winbag system, as well as the Hexa-Cover,
a floating cover for tanks and lagoons.
www.tramspread.co.uk
The Bagtank system is an affordable
and aesthetic digestate storage solution
www.adbiogas.co.uk

er
memb
visit
ReFood: A visionary
approach to
food waste
Philip Simpson,
Commercial Director of ReFood
AD plant operator ReFood, part of

the PDM Group, recently launched
its latest report, Vision 2020: UK
roadmap to zero food waste to landfill.'
We met Philip Simpson, Commercial
Director, and Dean Pearce, Regional
Commercial Manager (South East), to
find out how the company intends to
make its vision a reality...
In February 2011, ReFood launched a manifesto setting out the companys

ambition to eradicate food waste from landfill by the end of the decade.
ReFoods latest report is the culmination of more than two years work and
sets out a framework to achieve this objective by 2020. The message is
clear; food waste is a valuable resource that should never end up in landfill
sites, states Philip Simpson. Everyone from the food producer, through to
the retailer, the restaurant and the householder can play their part in taking
full advantage of its potential, by ensuring we re-use, recycle and recover
every nutrient and kilowatt of energy it has to offer. By separating and dealing
with food waste effectively, we can unlock all of its value while also removing
it as a contaminant to other waste streams. This will ensure high quality,
commercially viable, recyclable materials across the board, helping to return

billions of pounds to the UK economy.
Our recommendations are clear, continues Philip. We need a timetable
for the phased introduction of a ban on food waste to landfill, compulsory
separate food waste collections, collaboration at every stage of the supply
chain, and the integration of food waste education. Landfill tax is not
succeeding in creating behavioural change; urgent action is needed, which
is why this roadmap is so crucial. Theres a groundswell of good work
taking place, with companies such as CIWM, LARAC, WRAP and The Savoy
Hotel supporting our vision, but we would like to see government and
industry take a more consistent and holistic approach to food waste; one that
maximises its potential as a resource, concludes Philip.
Alongside ReFoods Vision 2020 campaign, the company is expanding its
network of AD plants across the UK, as Dean Pearce outlines: Our 4 MW
facility in Widnes is due to become operational later this year, and were also
planning to double the size of our Doncaster plant. Further south, weve now
received planning permission for a plant in Dagenham, which will be the most
advanced integrated AD plant dedicated to food waste in the south of England.
We envisage further facilities coming on stream in the next three to five years.
www.refood.co.uk
Invite us to your next open day for a chance to feature in a future issue.
E kate.oreilly@adbiogas.co.uk
www.adbiogas.co.uk
27

FLI Energy completes
first Tamar project
ahead of schedule
FLI Energy has completed construction of Tamar Energys 1.5 MW Basingstoke
AD plant a month ahead of schedule. Alan Lovell, Chairman and Chief
Executive of Tamar Energy, remarks: The completion of construction of our
first plant is a significant milestone for Tamar Energy. A truly collaborative
approach has delivered a complex project to time and to budget and all parties
are very proud of the achievement. FLI Energy provided full turnkey design and
construction of the entire facility, which will divert approximately 30,000 tpa of
food waste from landfill. We are looking forward to continued collaboration,
replicating this success on the delivery of many more AD projects as part of
Tamars plan to roll out a national network of plants, enthuses Declan McGrath,
FLI Energys Managing Director. Two further Tamar plants, Holbeach and
Retford, are in the commissioning phase, with a number of other facilities in the
advanced stages of development.
www.fligroupco.com www.tamar-energy.com
See Plant Update p22
L-R: Viscount Lymington; Declan McGrath, Managing Director FLI Energy; Alan Lovell,
Chairman Tamar Energy; Tony Wilson, Director of Construction and Operations Tamar
Energy; Michael Flynn, Executive Chairman FLI Group
All change for Ceram

In a move designed to reflect its expanding portfolio,
materials technology group Ceram has unveiled a new
identity. Now known as Lucideon, and incorporating
a new logo, signage and website, the rebranding
will bring all operations together under one banner,
as well as helping the business to grow further. As
the group has acquired new interests, the range of
different company names has become confusing for
our clients, explains Tony Kinsella, Chief Executive.
Tony Kinsella,
We have come up with a single identity that will
Chief Executive
incorporate all of our businesses and which will
reflect what we stand for as an organisation independence, accuracy,
creativity and responsiveness.
www.lucideon.com
28
ADBA members key to

success of new AD plant
The combined skills of
four ADBA members have
been instrumental to the
success of Cory Waste
Managements new AD plant
in Weston-super-Mare.
Landia chopper pumps are
installed in eight of the sites
process and storage tanks,
performing a combination of
process mixing and transfer
functions. In addition,
the companys externally
mounted GasMix system
provides a consistent
temperature for optimal
gas generation and allows for easy access for routine maintenance.
Meanwhile, the plants microbiological desulphurisation system, a
collaborative offering from Uniflare and Allison Engineering, allows the
operator to protect its CHP plant at minimal installation and operational
cost, as James Hladkij, AD Technician for Cory Waste Management,
explains: We need to protect our CHP plant operations and maintaining
H2S concentration levels to less than 300 ppm is an essential part of this
process. The Uniflare system (incorporating an Allison Engineering AWITE
biogas analyser) has enabled us to achieve levels of less than 100 ppm,
at minimal operational cost. Finally, four DTI heat exchangers from HRS
Heat Exchangers are being used at the plant for a combination of digester
and process tank heating and for digestate heating. HRS has also supplied
a plate heat exchanger for the main CHP heat circuit, to optimise the
efficiency of the main heat exchangers.
www.allison.co.uk www.hrs-heatexchangers.com
www.uniflare.co.uk www.landia.co.uk
The Uniflare system
incorporates an Allison
Engineering AWITE biogas
analyser and converts H2S to
elemental sulphur and water
Biogen secures 22m

funding from RBS
Biogen has secured 22m

of funding from the Royal
Bank of Scotland (RBS)
to support the companys
continued expansion.
The revolving and term
Biogens Westwood AD plant in Northamptonshire;
the RBS funding will be used to build similar plants in
loan facilities with RBS,
Warwickshire, Hertfordshire, Edinburgh, Denbighshire
together with the sums
and Rhondda Cynon Taf
invested to date by Kier
Group and the Bedfordia
Group, amount to a total of 70m towards Biogens developing AD plant network.
This is great news for Biogen and great news for AD in the UK, states Richard
Barker, Biogens Chief Executive. The additional funding provided by RBS allows
us to continue our strategy of rolling out additional capacity across the UK. Each
new AD plant we build will result in more food waste being diverted from landfill,
more renewable energy being generated for communities and more jobs created for
local people. Not only that, but more businesses and local councils will have better
access to sustainable food waste treatment on a national scale, adds Richard.
www.biogen.co.uk
www.adbiogas.co.uk

Larrington Shredder
promises to increase
biogas production
The Larrington Shredder uses just 45 kW of power to break down 15 tonnes of

feedstock per hour
A patented in-line shredding tube and stone trap from Larrington Green Energy
promises to increase biogas production more rapidly than any other shredding
system. The Larrington Shredders continual action produces a larger surface
area, creating an improved environment for anaerobic enzymes by increasing
contact between the methane-producing bacteria and volatile solids. The
end result is the production of more gas, more quickly, with the system also
eliminating any barrier created from the fibrous portions of the feedstock. Our
shredder uses just 45 kW of power to break down, for example, up to 15 tonnes
per hour of sugar beet or maize; the product emerges at 30C, perfect for biogas
production, explains Richard Larrington, Managing Director. With many
companies looking to enhance the gas volume in their AD plant by codigesting
waste feedstock and agricultural residues, the Larrington Shredder is able to
mix straw and manure, giving enhanced gas volumes.
www.larringtontrailers.com
First producer signs

up to biomethane
certification scheme
Future Biogas is to become the first registered producer
to join Green Gas Tradings Biomethane Certification
Scheme (BMCS). The AD operators first biomethane
to grid plant, an 8m crop-based facility in Doncaster,
is now injecting gas into the grid, producing up to
12,000m3 of gas per day. The independent certification
scheme will provide a trading platform and a process
Philipp Lukas,
for certifying biomethane. We are delighted to welcome
Managing
Future Biogas as the first producer to the Biomethane
Director of
Certification Scheme, and are particularly pleased that
Future Biogas
Future Biogas selected the BMCS after recognising the
benefits that a separately tradable certificate has to a biomethane producer
over a simple gas tracking scheme, says Grant Ashton, Chief Executive
of Green Gas Trading (GGT). Philipp Lukas, Managing Director of Future
Biogas, adds: We are confident that GGT will broaden the market and
facilitate links between green gas producers and buyers.
www.greengastrading.co.uk www.futurebiogas.com
www.adbiogas.co.uk
29

Movers and Shakers
Gas Data gains new recruit
KWS trial results show benefit of Piadin

A trial by KWS of Piadin, a liquid
formulation nitrogen stabiliser
distributed in the UK by Gleadell
Bioenergy, has delivered positive
and consistent results, producing
a dry matter yield benefit on
48 of the 49 varieties of maize
included in the trial. The largest
yield benefit was found on the
variety Ronaldinio, which saw an increase of 3.9t/ha (equivalent to 102.30/ha
over untreated). John Burgess, KWS UK Product Manager, comments: Visual
effects may not always be noticed in the field but in every variety bar one there
was a benefit, and certainly outweighed the input cost. Its a consistent data set
across three locations and that is very positive.
www.kws-uk.com www.gleadell.co.uk/bioenergy
Willie Whitesmith
New Chief Executive for Tamar Energy

Tamar Energy has announced the appointment of William Heller as its new
Chief Executive. Previously Chief Executive of Falck Renewables Wind,
Willie joins at an important time for the company as its first two AD plants, at
Basingstoke and Holbeach Hurn, begin exporting electricity to the grid.
www.tamar-energy.com
Eco award success for SEaB

Chief Executive
Kirk to build plant at Scottish distillery

Kirk Environmental is to begin construction of a new AD plant at Glendullan
Distillery in Banffshire. Consisting of two 921m balance tanks and one
2,923m digester tank complete with a 1,270m BIODOME double membrane
roof, the project is part of a 1bn investment plan in Scotch whisky exports,
which has seen demand rise by 87% in the past decade.
www.kirk-environmental.com
See Tanks feature p18
30
Willie Whitesmith has joined Gas Datas marketing team,

assisting with the launch of the 426 and 436 gas meter series
for use in the site investigation, waste to energy and biogas
fields. Former head of Integrated Geotechnical & Environmental
Services (IGES) Ltd, Willie has many years experience as both
a customer and user of Gas Datas instruments, making him
ideally placed to understand clients needs.
www.gasdata.co.uk
Sandra Sassow
www.adbiogas.co.uk
SEaB Energy is celebrating another award win after its Chief

Executive, Sandra Sassow, was declared Eco Entrepreneur of the
Year at the 2013 Great British Entrepreneur Awards, held at the
Grand Connaught Rooms in London. The kudos that this award
brings will further help us export the best of British renewable
technologies to a host of emerging markets, says Sandra.
www.seabenergy.com
See feature 'Small scale AD', p8
Working Groups
Training and Safety group
seeks to reduce risks
At the most recent meeting of our Training and
Safety group, held at Malaby Biogas Bore Hill
Farm biodigester in Wiltshire, members committed
to creating a risk register for the AD industry.
Helping to identify key areas for the development
of best practice, the register could eventually
provide a basis for site-by-site guidance. The
group also heard from representatives from
WRAP and WAMITAB on their work in this area:
WRAP is mapping requirements for training in
the agricultural AD sector, as well as looking at
website tools for signposting training courses

and providers, while WAMITAB reported that 83
registrations and accreditations have now taken
place on qualifications designed against permitting
requirements. However, with little funding available
for courses, there have been just two registrations
to their voluntary, non-statutory scheme.
providing clear guidance to operators while

avoiding over-regulation, which could stifle novel
technology or approaches.
Discussions around Best Available Techniques

Reference Documents (BREFs) were also high
on the agenda, in particular the balance between
More information on the BREF process, as well as

a full summary of the meeting, is available in the
members area at adbiogas.co.uk
Focus on funding for

Transport group
Biomethane to grid
members enjoy Future
Biogas site tour
Members of our Transport Working Group enjoyed a wide ranging

discussion on the likely future development of LNG and CNG
infrastructure, and how applicable these technologies are likely to be to
various vehicle fleets. Ongoing funding schemes were also analysed,
with updates on the Technology Strategy Boards Low Carbon Truck trials,
Ten-T funding and the Clean Bus Technology Fund. There was consensus
among attendees that support should be focused on ongoing incentive
schemes, rather than ad-hoc grants; it was felt that a focus on grants could
slow down momentum, as companies wait for announcements.
Last month, our Biomethane to Grid Working Group met at Future Biogas
recently opened gas-to-grid plant in Doncaster, where members enjoyed a tour
of the site and heard presentations from organisations involved in the project.
DECCs Stephen Roberts gave an update on RHI sustainability criteria and the
plans to introduce a tariff guarantee for larger projects under the scheme from
2015/16, and also raised the possibility of banding the biomethane injection
RHI tariff to ensure that larger projects are not overcompensated. Government
is undecided as to whether this will require a formal consultation, but is keen
to engage with industry to determine which projects are in the pipeline. In
addition, Ofgems Andy Morrall delivered a full overview of the RHI registration,
application and payment process for biomethane producers, including clarifying
that RHI payments are approved by Ofgem within 28 days of periodic data
submission, with a maximum of two further weeks before payments are made.
The group also heard from Clare Boam of the Department for Transport
(DfT), who informed members that the DfT has now finalised the
recommendations that will form part of their report into boosting the use
of gas and biomethane in the HGV sector. This is likely to be published in
March; the DfT is still keen to receive evidence on methane slip and the
size of the current gas vehicle fleet. Confirmation of fuel duty differential
between gas and diesel, which arrived in Decembers Autumn Statement,
was also welcomed by attendees, although some still pointed to the need
for a further differential for biomethane.
To take part in the next meeting of our Transport Working Group,
scheduled for March, contact E jordan.marshall@adbiogas.co.uk
To view the presentations, or to find out how to become involved with the
group, contact E jordan.marshall@adbiogas.co.uk
Get involved
Our working and operator groups cover the whole spectrum of the AD
industry, shaping debate, raising standards and influencing policy. To
find out more, or to attend a forthcoming meeting, go to the members
area on our website adbiogas.co.uk or contact Jordan Marshall, Policy
Officer E jordan.marshall@adbiogas.co.uk T +44 (0)203 176 5540
www.adbiogas.co.uk
31
R&D Update
32
www.adbiogas.co.uk
R&D Update
AD Research Network
receives funding
he Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC)

has confirmed that the proposal for an AD Research Network, led by
Professor Charles Banks at Southampton University and supported
by ADBA, has been successful. This is welcome recognition from the BBSRC
of the significant contribution that anaerobic digestion can make to the UK
bioeconomy, and is particularly rewarding considering the focus that we have
given to fostering better relations and dialogue between industry and academia
at our R&D Forums, and through our work in developing an R&D Strategy for
the AD industry.
For information and advice on our R&D activities or the

ADBA R&D Forum, contact our R&D Liaison and PR
Manager Rosaline T +44 (0)203 176 5441
E rosaline.hulse@adbiogas.co.uk
The AD Research Network is one of 13 collaborative Networks in Industrial
Biotechnology and Bioenergy (NIBB) that aims to boost interaction between the
academic and industrial communities, promoting the translation of research
into tangible benefits. Each network includes funds to support a range of small,
proof of concept research projects and will feed into the next stage, namely the
Industrial Biotechnology Catalyst, which will support the development of ideas
from concept to commercialisation.
In other news, Novembers R&D Forum brought together industry and
academia to discuss forthcoming ideas and innovations, the potential benefits
to AD businesses, and how new techniques and technologies will impact the
market as they become serious commercial propositions. I also presented
ADBAs proposal for the R&D Strategy for industry (available in the resources/
presentations section of adbiogas.co.uk), for which our next step will be to set
up the proposed working groups and system for gathering information from
industry about its R&D problems, and explore potential funding routes.
ADBA R&D Forum delegates enjoy a tour of the CPIs AD Development Centre
We will be working closely with Charles Banks as both the AD Research Network
and R&D working groups are set up, and will look for opportunities where the
Strategy and the Network can work in tandem. If you would like more information,
or to be involved in the Strategy working groups, please get in touch.
www.adbiogas.co.uk
33
Membership Matters
34
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Upcoming Events
Energy Now Expo
Telford International Centre
12-13 FEB
2014
Foodex
The UK show for professionals in all areas of food and drink

manufacturing, Foodex will host a compelling programme of
presentations, workshops, masterclasses and discussion groups,
alongside over 400 exhibiting companies.
www.foodex.co.uk
NEC, Birmingham
24-26 mar
2014
ADBA Members
Meeting
24 APR
2014
Maclay Murray & Spens,

One London Wall, London EC2
UK AD &
Biogas 2014
2-3 jul
2014
2 jul
2014
The Energy Now Expo is the only renewable energy event organised
specifically for the agricultural and rural sectors. Now celebrating its
fifth year, the 2014 event is being held in association with the CLA and
NFU, and is sponsored by NatWest. Meet the ADBA team at stand 54.
www.energynowexpo.co.uk
Hall 3, NEC, Birmingham
UK AD &
Biogas Industry
Awards 2014
NEC, Birmingham
Enter now!
Closing date for award

entries 31 March 2014
Discuss the AD industrys most pressing issues with fellow ADBA

members and hear the latest updates from government representatives
and industry experts. This member-only event also offers excellent
networking opportunities.
www.adbiogas.co.uk
The UKs biggest free-to-attend AD trade show will return to the NEC
this July. Moving to the larger hall 3, this is set to be our busiest
show to date, with over 3,500 visitors, 270 exhibitors, a free two day
conference, 24 free seminars and workshops, a biomethane vehicle
area, a new R&D hub, free advice clinics and the third UK AD & Biogas
Industry Awards. A must-attend event for anyone involved in or keen
to learn more about the UKs AD industry.
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Has your AD project, service, process or team produced outstanding

results in the past 12 months? Is your company ahead of the
competition? Then make sure to enter our third UK AD & Biogas
Industry Awards, which will highlight the top achievements and
innovations across the industry in 11 diverse categories. With
awards ranging from Best integration of AD into a farming business
to Innovation in process efficiency/optimisation, Best supporting
service and Best AD project, all aspects of the AD industry will be
recognised at this glittering black tie event.
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Find out more and see the full list of categories on p36
Welcome new ADBA members!

Addleshaw Goddard LLP Alfa Laval Alliance Technical Laboratories Cogentek Eurotec WWT Eurotron
Fraunhofer Umsicht fre-energy GEN-C GPS Group H2 Energy Intelligent Green Energy Team Ltd ISB Global
Jones Celtic Bioenergy LJM Loowatt Metro CCTV NVP Energy Optimum Industrial Renecon Energy
Rodney J Moore Construction Service Saith Scottish Biofuel Programme Shanks Waste Management
Strutt & Parker Farms Ltd The Underfloor Heating Company Ltd T-T Pumps Ulster Farmers Union
www.adbiogas.co.uk
35
Membership Matters
What has your business

achieved in the last 12 months?
Has your business successfully completed an AD project in the past 12 months? Is your AD team
outstanding? Is it time the service you offer your clients was fully recognised?
Held on 2 July 2014 the first night of UK AD & Biogas 2014 our
third annual UK AD & Biogas Industry Awards will celebrate the finest
achievements and innovations across the AD industry, highlighting the best
of the best in 11 diverse categories. Tell us about your achievements for the
chance to win a prestigious award at this glittering black tie event.
The call for entries is now open to see your business, project, technology or
service recognised, so make sure to submit your entry now final deadline
31 March 2014.
The categories
Innovation in sewage treatment
through AD
Innovation in food waste collection
Best on-farm AD project
Best food & drink industry AD project
Innovation in process
efficiency/optimisation
Making the most of digestate
Making the most of biogas
Best supporting service
Best merchant AD project
AD hero/team of the year
Best small scale AD project
(sub 250 kW)
Only the best projects are

recognised through these awards.
Disseminating the ideas behind
these projects will highlight the full
potential of AD and allow for many
more to build a sustainable business
and a greener future for all of us.
Ulla Kepp, Patrick Nolan Consulting
How to enter
To find out more about each category and

download the entry form, go to
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Dont forget, you can enter more than one category
and more than one project. Deadline for entry
submissions 31 March 2014.
Why enter?
Showcase your achievements
Stand out from your competitors
Gain valuable media exposure
Reward your team
Add award logo to your
marketing materials
36
Spirit Pub Group receiving the 2013 award for

Innovation in Food Waste Collection
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Membership Matters
Safety First
The role of the Principal Contractor
Anaerobic digestion has a

unique set of challenges when
it comes to health and safety,
being part waste industry, part
process industry and part energy
industry. However, it has one
thing in common with the rest of
the construction industry, namely
its conformance to Construction
(Design and Management)
Regulations (CDM) during the
construction phase.
CDM Regulations apply to the building of all AD plants and are designed
to ensure responsibilities are clear, risks are reduced, and health and safety
improved. Although the client or developer has ultimate responsibility for
safety, on a day to day basis the most important role is that of the Principal
Contractor, whose responsibility it is to, among other things:
plan and coordinate the works on site;
implement and maintain a construction phase Health and Safety plan; and
make sure all site workers are inducted, suitably trained and have
ongoing visibility of specific hazards as the project progresses through
different stages.
Tony Wilson, MAAT, MBA, is Director of Construction

and Operations for Tamar Energy. Tony was previously
Operations Director for Mace where he undertook high
profile roles as Head of Utilities for CLM (the London
2012 Olympic Delivery Partner), Programme Director
at DECC for the UKs first Carbon Capture and Storage
demonstration project, and Project Director at Southern Water for a major
transformation of the organisations AMP5 Capital Delivery programme.
Prior to this, Tony held a number of senior positions with EDF Energy.
These points are particularly important for AD projects as the construction
and operations phases can overlap. During hot commissioning and
ramp-up, the operations team will start to take over discrete activities while
the site is still under the Principal Contractors control indeed, CDM
Regulations will still apply until all commissioning activities are complete.
During this stage it is essential that operations activities are undertaken with
the approval of the Principal Contractor. The most effective way to do this is
to treat the operations team as another subcontractor and ensure they submit
appropriate risk assessments and method statements before undertaking
any work.
Putting safety as a priority is fundamental to the long term success of any AD
business, and to the industry as a whole. An ongoing, structured examination
of processes and operations means the issues that may represent personal or
operational risks, or risks to efficient operation, are identified and mitigated.
www.tamar-energy.com
www.adbiogas.co.uk
37
Membership Matters
On-farm AD support through ADBAs new
enhanced Farmers Consultancy Service
Our Farmers Consultancy Service, which offers free, independent and expert AD advice through our carefully
selected panel of consultant members, has now launched a suite of new services to help farmers interested in
finding out whether AD is right for their farming business and provide access to the very best advice and support.
A crucial starting point for on-farm AD development, the service offers all the support, information and contacts
you need to get your AD project to the finish line.
What do we offer?
1 Assess your farms AD potential

FREE initial consultation followed by an advice note summarising your options
NEW - FREE site visit for farming businesses that pass the initial review,
plus detailed assessment
NEW - FREE assessment and application support for WRAPs on-farm AD
business plan grant
2 NEW - ADBA Scoping Study and Business Plan Package (prices
from 9,500)
Site visit from our financial consultant to assess your finance options
Initial project scoping study
ADBA membership for 2013-14 offering a host of membership benefits
including: The Practical Guide to AD; planning support; policy and
regulatory information; introductions and site visits to farmers who have
already built AD plants; and a range of other support services
Full business plan development
3 NEW - Secure finance for your AD project (special rates for
ADBA members)
Help with evaluating the mix of funding required
Matching service: recommending the most suitable lender for your project,
including those eligible for WRAPs On-farm AD Loan Fund
Help with editing your business plan to meet individual lenders needs
Review of formal funding offers
TEAM
Chief Executive, Charlotte Morton
T + 44 (0)203 176 0503 E charlotte.morton@adbiogas.co.uk
Policy Manager, Matt Hindle
T +44 (0)203 176 0591 E matt.hindle@adbiogas.co.uk
Policy Officer, Jordan Marshall
T +44 (0)203 176 5440 E jordan.marshall@adbiogas.co.uk
Market Analyst, Oliver More
T +44 (0)203 567 0751 E ollie.more@adbiogas.co.uk
Commercial Director, Louise Wallace
T +44 (0)203 176 0592 E louise.wallace@adbiogas.co.uk
Head of Membership, Wayne Hurley
T +44 (0)203 176 5416 E wayne.hurley@adbiogas.co.uk
Sales Manager Jamil Ahad
T +44 (0)203 176 4414 E jamil.ahad@adbiogas.co.uk
Sales Executive, Rachel Fenton
T +44 (0)203 176 5418 E rachel.fenton@adbiogas.co.uk
Very helpful in advising on our small scale requirement.
Marketing Manager, Annika Herter

T +44 (0)203 176 0590 E annika.herter@adbiogas.co.uk
Steve Gifkins, Malt Mill Farm
Design and Creative Manager, Matthew Ireland

T +44 (0)203 176 4415 E matthew.ireland@adbiogas.co.uk
Marketing Executive, Kelly Oxenham
T +44 (0)203 176 5417 E kelly.oxenham@adbiogas.co.uk
Contact us today and complete our online application form for your
FREE initial AD consultation: http://bit.ly/1lEmDVo
T +44 (0)203 176 0503 E enquiries@adbiogas.co.uk
Marketing Intern, Barbara Landell Mills

T +44 (0)203 176 7767 E barbara.landell-mills@adbiogas.co.uk
R&D Liaison and PR Manager, Rosaline Hulse
T +44 (0)203 176 5441 E rosaline.hulse@adbiogas.co.uk
Accountant, Amy Pritchard
T +44 (0)203 176 6962 E amy.pritchard@adbiogas.co.uk
Welcome Ollie
Oliver More, Market

Analyst, ADBA
38
My past experience working for Waste Watch, Ofgem

and most recently DECC, where I was Bioenergy
Policy Analyst, should stand me in good stead for
my role as ADBA's new Market Analyst, where I will
be responsible for collecting market information
and industry data to provide the evidence needed to
demonstrate anaerobic digestion's potential.
Office Executive, Peter Mackintosh

T +44 (0)203 176 0503 E peter.mackintosh@adbiogas.co.uk
AD Finance, Bruce Nelson Director of Compass Renewables
T +44 (0)1732 464495 E bruce@compassbusinessfinance.co.uk
AD & Biogas News Managing Editor, Kirsty Sharpe
T +44 (0)1920 821873 E kirsty.sharpe@adbiogas.co.uk
AD & Biogas News Editor, Kate OReilly
T +44 (0)7894 039609 E kate.oreilly@adbiogas.co.uk
www.adbiogas.co.uk
Exhibitor Profiles
www.adbiogas.co.uk
39
Exhibitor Profiles
40
www.adbiogas.co.uk

AD Biogas News February 2014 Final

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News

THE UK ANAEROBIC DIGESTION & BIOGAS

Issue 20 FEBRUARY 2014

FIT degression review

AD plant update 2014

AD & Biogas News | february 2014

Inside this issue >

ADBA National Conference 2013 Review: 16-17

Members News and Views:

By Dr Jonathan Scurlock, Chief Adviser (Renewable

Features for Issue 22 (June) include:

Sponsorship and advertising:

february 2014 | AD & Biogas News

mall scale anaerobic digestion, particularly on farms, offers

European End of Waste

AD & Biogas News | february 2014

Only projects equal to or above 200 kWth, which

<200 kWth = 7.5p/kWh

Industry welcomes FIT review

In order to make a strong case to government during the review of FIT

february 2014 | AD & Biogas News

ADBA outlines importance of AD to Lords

AD & Biogas News | february 2014

Sub Committee on Agriculture, Fisheries, Environment and Energy, Charlotte

News from the regions

L-R: Fred MacAulay, awards host; Richard Gueterbock, Marketing

New figures have revealed that more than 10m tonnes of

Wales ideally placed to upgrade to the

Success for Clearfleau at Scottish Green Awards

A report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation has focused

Northern Ireland to benefit from collective

Food waste recycling services

A conference organised by WRAP, Business in the Community and Northern

february 2014 | AD & Biogas News

Small scale AD takes a

On-farm AD is perhaps the most well known application of small scale

It is therefore unsurprising that for a growing number of UK farmers, AD has

AD & Biogas News | february 2014

The novel tubular

maximum capacity. The benefits to Richard

This kind of innovative approach to small scale AD is being encouraged by

Evergreen Gas runs two VW Caddy vans

With a significant amount

Clearfleau has installed

february 2014 | AD & Biogas News

Technology focus: Digestate

AD & Biogas News | february 2014

Loowatt has combined

Funding small scale AD

february 2014 | AD & Biogas News

Angus Thomas Photography

While the UKs small scale AD sector is

SEaBs Sandra Sassow

There are also other opportunities on the horizon;

AD & Biogas News | february 2014

february 2014 | AD & Biogas News

Government & Agency News

Mayor of London launches 1m

CIWM urges collective

The Chartered Institution

However, with an emphasis on reduction, redesign, re-use, repair and rethinking,

HSE appoints new

New appointments for LARAC

AD & Biogas News | february 2014