Bagley Biogas proves ACP ’ s versatility
| Energy
Bagley Biogas is a joint venture between two neighbouring farms based on the outskirts of Baschurch , Shropshire . Both farms resources have been utilised in this additional business – not only machinery but multiple people who are on hand at the busiest times of the year .
T he system itself is a 850 kW electrical - 1060 kW thermal anaerobic digester . The plant site is located at Oaklands Farm , Bagley .
The site was selected as the positioning was best for the farms and surrounding community – unfortunately the ground on the selected area is poor so alternative methods to clamps walls were needed - these being essential for the build . ACP concrete LTD , were able to meet the desired wall heights with the strength being provided by a concrete slab removing the need to rely on poor ground to withhold such a substantial structure – no exposed steels are also beneficial as this reduces corrosion from effluents .
Both farms combined provide 710 acres of arable land that grows maize , hybrid rye and sugar beet these are all high yielding energy crops that supply feed stocks to then anaerobic digester throughout the year . The decision to bring these farms together has secured the market on the crops they produce – providing more stability for the existing farms that also still run as independent businesses .
Marches biogas are the anaerobic digestion engineers chosen to support this process . This company selected for multiple reasons . Firstly , having such quality technological anaerobic digestion engineers within the same county gives reassurance they are on hand when needed . Secondly neighbouring farms are running Marches Biogas plant they have
produced that are seemingly more efficient and developed than any others working in that area , it also allows more farmers to work together to grow knowledge and share ideas . The decision to use Marches Biogas is what has allowed this business to develop rapidly they designed , manufactured , installed and commission the AD facility as well as providing training and ongoing support to us throughout all stages . Additionally heat produced from both engines and the biogas boiler is utilised by a Alvan Blanch CD dryer – modelled on a 1960s design – this has the capability of drying multiple materials with what is a waste product of the existing renewable energy resources and also leaves opportunities for the future development and expansion of the business . www . farmingmonthly . co . uk January 2017 | Farming Monthly | 33