Wisconsin biogas cogeneration project highlighted at conference

Rolls-Royce was selected by Norm E Lane Farm to provide a Series 4000 MTU On-site Energy combined heat and power (CHP) system for its dairy facility located in Chili, Wisconsin. The biogas CHP system was installed following the expansion of the farm’s existing anaerobic digester to support the farm’s growing cattle herd. Tom Drake of W.W. Williams, an authorized MTU Onsite Energy distributor, detailed the project during an April 5 session at the BioCycle West Coast 2016 Conference titled “Managing, Financing Dairy Digester Expansion.”

“Anaerobic digestion is integral to the farming industry as a key asset in herd management, organic waste recycling and renewable energy production,” said Drake. “The Norm E Lane Farm is a model facility for others interested in utilizing advanced biogas CHP technologies for clean energy.”

During his presentation, Drake addressed the special needs of the project, which included sizing considerations, biogas treatment methods, maintenance and engine management. Drake wrapped up the session detailing project successes, including the CHP system’s ability to produce renewable energy with an expected electrical efficiency of 42 percent.

Norm E Lane Farm, owned by the Meissner Family, is a progressive, large scale, dairy farm established in 1946 that consists of more than 2,000 dairy cows. In 2015, Drake worked closely with MTU Onsite Energy, DVO, Inc. and the Meissner Family to replace the existing biogas engine generator as part of the expansion of the anaerobic digester that was installed in the facility in 2008. The new, larger anaerobic digester supports improved manure management and livestock health.