The “Colombarone di Minardi” agricultural company, located in Villanova sull'Arda (PC), undertook the construction of a 300 kWel biogas plant powered by livestock waste from the breeding of approximately 370 heads of milking cattle in 2020. .  

The plant is composed of a heated anaerobic fermenter and a storage with biogas recovery, both equipped with insulation and mixing. The introduction of solid biomass takes place via a loading hopper, while the loading of liquid organic matrices is entrusted to a pumping and mixing tank.

The biogas produced is pre-treated to remove condensate and sulfur content and used as fuel for the 2G agenitor 409 bg cogenerator. This 8-cylinder engine, with a power of 300 kWel, is considered the most efficient on the market in its category, with an efficiency of 41.5% and a consumption of only 145 m3/h of biogas , 20% less compared to other competing products. The electricity generated is transformed into medium voltage and delivered to the ENEL distribution network.

The plant entered into operation at the beginning of 2021 and achieved an electricity production equal to 98% of maximum capacity , thanks to effective planning of ordinary maintenance. In addition to the incentivized electricity, the company uses excess thermal energy to power other users serving the livestock activity, ensuring efficient use of energy at all levels and reducing management costs.

Through the integration of digestion plants, the “Colombarone di Minardi” agricultural company has significantly reduced its carbon footprint, contributing to the mitigation of climate-altering emissions. This model of production and exploitation of production waste represents a renewable virtuous circle from both an economic and environmental point of view, demonstrating the company's commitment to promoting sustainability and energy efficiency in the agricultural sector.