The profitability of a biogas project comes down to a few key figures: how much feedstock is available and at what price, what output it yields, and how much the plant costs. We run these numbers so that the final result stands up to scrutiny by investors, the board, and the funding agency.
You'll receive a report you can use to make decisions and a transparent calculation model—not a sales pitch.
A feasibility study is the project’s first real filter. It is conducted before preliminary design, before the permitting process begins, and before any binding negotiations take place regarding the site or feed-in agreements.
Typical situations: as a basis for an investment decision, as an attachment to a funding or grant application, when choosing between two implementation options, or for evaluating the expansion and modernization of an existing facility.
If the project isn't viable, recognizing that at this stage is the most valuable outcome of the study. We'll say it straight out.
The scope is determined on a project-by-project basis. These six components form the standard framework.
Starting point: Feeds and Availability
Feed types, quantities, seasonal variations, TS/VS concentrations, and the level of gate fees or feed costs.
Yield: Mass Balance and Gas Production
Methane production by feedstock, the amount of biogas and biomethane, and the amount of digestate and reject.
Solution: Technology Comparison and Sizing
Process selection, pretreatment, sanitization, processing, and handling of the final product — 2–3 comparable sets of processes.
Market: Final Products and Revenue Streams
Biomethane, electricity and heat, carbon dioxide, recycled fertilizers. Pricing, sales channels, and support mechanisms.
Cost: CAPEX and OPEX
A comparison of the investment estimate with completed projects, as well as operating, maintenance, energy, and personnel costs.
Decision: Profitability and Risks
Cash flow, payback period, present value, and internal rate of return, as well as sensitivity analysis for critical variables.
It’s not always necessary to calculate everything precisely all at once. A typical process is a quick review → feasibility study → preliminary planning, with each stage culminating in a “proceed/do not proceed” decision. Accuracy classes describe the general order of magnitude for the field per level of analysis. They do not represent a commitment to the accuracy of an individual project—that is agreed upon based on the quality of the input data.
| Quick Overview | Feasibility Study | Preliminary Design | |
|---|---|---|---|
| The question answered by | Is it even worth looking into? | Is the project worthwhile, and under what conditions? | How will the project be carried out, and how much will it cost? |
| Order of magnitude | ± 40–50 % | ± 30 % | ± 15–20 % |
| Contents | Rough mass balance and cost per size class compared to reference values | Input analysis, technology comparison, CAPEX/OPEX, cash flow, sensitivity analysis | Layout, process description, equipment list, scope suitable for a request for proposal |
| Usage | Internal discussion, screening of project proposals | Basis for Investment Decisions, Financing and Grant Applications | Permitting, Procurement, Contract Bidding |
Activities
The calculation must be updated whenever inputs, uses, transportation, or requirements change—and the verifier will review it again. With ongoing maintenance service, the calculation stays up to date without requiring anyone to take on the task as a side job.
Let's start with the background information
Please provide the types of feedstock, the estimated annual quantity, the location, and the intended use of the end product. Based on that information, we will advise you on the appropriate level of assessment for the project and what it entails.
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