Amid reports of LPG cylinder shortages, people are looking for alternatives to LPG. Consequently, biogas has also drawn attention. Mini biogas plants can be installed on rooftops and even balconies. A biogas plant powered by household waste can eliminate the expense and dependence on LPG. Biogas is primarily composed of methane and carbon dioxide and can be used in the same way as LPG. This can be a better option for those who not only want to avoid relying on LPG gas but also want to effectively dispose of their household waste.
A portable biogas plant measuring 1 cubic meter for a family of 3-4 members costs between ₹15,000 and ₹25,000. If you build a permanent installation on the ground, the cost may be slightly lower. However, portable biogas plants are considered the best for maintenance.
Using biogas at home is as easy as using LPG. All you need to do is add wet household waste, such as fruit peels, leftover food, spoiled vegetables, or cow dung, mixed with water, to the inlet every day. This waste decomposes in the biogas plant, producing gas. It then flows directly through a pipe to your kitchen’s biogas stove.
The important thing is that maintaining a biogas plant is also easy. You just need to be careful not to put plastic, glass, or chemical-containing items in it. Furthermore, you can use the liquid residue left after the gas is produced as fertilizer for your plants.
Installing a biogas plant at home is a good investment, but there are a few things to consider before installing it.
First, you need to have the right location. The bacteria that produce biogas require heat. Therefore, choose a location for the plant that receives good sunlight throughout the day.
The biogas plant should be located near the kitchen. This increases the pressure and prevents the risk of leakage. However, if the pipeline is too long, the gas pressure may decrease.
If you have a small family and your household doesn’t produce enough waste to fuel the biogas plant, this technology may not work for you.
If you are installing a biogas plant, be sure to install a pressure gauge in the pipeline so you can keep track of the gas being produced.
Make sure to arrange for the liquid residue from the biogas plant. You can use this liquid as fertilizer for your plants.