Techno-economic analysis of the olive oil mills waste valorisation for energy production: A case study of corfu

Abstract

Olive oil production in Greece is undoubtedly linked to its history and tradition. However, large quantities of by-products that are harmful to the environment are produced (with the olive oil production). Those environmental problems are a result of the chemical composition of the waste and its high organic load. On the other hand, this kind of biomass holds an extremely high energy potential, if treated correctly. This intense phenomenon has led to the exploration and development of methods and technologies for the treatment of olive mill waste. One of the methods used is biogas production through anaerobic digestion and its subsequent disposal for energy production. This method could be particularly appealing to the Greek islands, as they depend for energy on mainland Greece, or are powered by diesel power plants. A typical example is the island of Corfu where the problem of waste from olive oil mills is intense and its energy demands are increased due to the growth of the tourism industry. Therefore, energy production via anaerobic digestion could greatly contribute to overcoming the current situation. The purpose of this study is to examine the feasibility of an electricity production plant on the island of Corfu, which is fed by biogas, taking into account the high amount of olive oil mill waste produced in this area.