Techno-Economic Analysis of Biogas Production with Vinasse and Co-Digestion with Vinasse and Filter Cake for Annexed Plants: Case Study in Paraná State, Brazil

Abstract

Decentralized energy generation by renewable fuels is an alternative to energy dependency and reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, with biogas emerging as a promising option. Brazil, as the second largest ethanol producer, generates several by-products in the production of this biofuel that could be used for biogas production. In this study, the potential for biogas production and electricity generation from biogas was evaluated. Furthermore, an economic analysis was conducted with calculations of discounted net present value (NPV), internal rate of return (IRR), return on investment (ROI), Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE), and sensitivity analysis related to the implementation of vinasse anaerobic digestion, and vinasse and filter cake co-digestion in seven sugarcane mills in Paraná state, Brazil. The results demonstrated that co-digestion and higher sugarcane milling capacities benefit biogas generation and economic aspects. Additionally, implementing anaerobic digestion for electricity production was viable in all scenarios, indicating that biogas from the sugarcane sector could be a viable alternative for decentralized energy generation.