RDP project database

GAEC of Pré Morel assisted by EAFRD conducted a feasibility study to assess the viability of a methane generating plant to optimise waste recovery, on one farm and the wider region, and to develop the local production of renewable energy.

The creation of a Methane generation plant is an initiative of the GAEC of Pré Morel, a polycultural farm. This initiative is consistent with the region’s climate plans, parts of which include an analysis of the region’s waste disposal facilities.

The project aimed to: a) optimise waste recovery on the farm by combining it with other waste from the region; b) develop the local production of renewable energy; and c) diversify the farm’s activities in order to strengthen and secure its economic future.

A techno-economic study of the viability of a methane generating plant was undertaken with the help of various public agencies. In order to maximise the benefits, the GAEC needs to process fermentable waste from external sources. These include: i) residue from farms and abattoirs; ii) residue from local food processors, schools and businesses; iii) sludge from purification plants; iv) green and paper waste.

The biogas produced provides electricity for the EDF network and heating for the neighbouring village. The processing of green waste creates: a) alternative revenue for farmers as well as jobs; b) improved waste collection in the surrounding municipalities. The project was unique due to a) the type of process used; b) the partnership between farmers and local community. This is the third such plant in France, and a possible model for other regions.

The main difficulty was finding the right partners to finance the project, and the right consultancy firm to assess its feasibility. Given it was a pilot project, it was not easy to find partners with whom ideas or experiences could be exchanged.

Pays Barrois

Lorraine

Hexagone

9 200

4048

3 312

1 840

Hélène Pauly

h.pauly@barleduc.fr

+33 3 29 70 99 74

English, French