What is biomass?
Biomass is biological material including wood, plant and animal waste and other organic materials. You might think of biomass as the stuff in your compost pile.
On the farms and ranches of South Dakota and Minnesota, biomass is a renewable energy source that can be processed to fuel electric generators, create heat and produce byproducts that farmers can use in their agricultural operations.
Turning biomass into energy
Using a methane digester, natural occurring microorganisms break down the biomass, producing methane and other biogases. The gas is then used to fire a boiler that maintains a consistent 96-degree temperature so bacteria can continue to break down the waste and produce gas. A large generator located near the digester is powered by surplus methane gas.
In addition to reducing odor, this process generates byproducts that farmers can use or sell; solid byproducts make good bedding for animals, and liquids can be used as fertilizer. The boiler also provides hot water for heating barn floors and washing facilities.
Biomass Energy in South Dakota and Minnesota
With agriculture’s role in our economy, this region has substantial biomass resources. Your local Touchstone Energy Cooperatives are currently working with methane digester projects at several dairy, hog confinement and livestock facilities in the area.
