Introduction
Biogas is a renewable source of energy generated from the anaerobic digestion of organic materials. The quantity of biogas produced depends greatly on the type of substrate, its moisture content, and composition. Understanding the potential yields of different feedstocks is essential for designing efficient biogas plants and maximizing energy recovery.
Below is a detailed overview of biogas outputs per ton of substrate from commonly used organic materials.
Biogas Outputs for Different Substrates
| Substrate | Output (m³/t) | Moisture Content |
| Natural cattle manure | 46 | 87% |
| Self-flow cattle manure | 22 | 95% |
| Cow manure with straw bedding (FYM) | 100 | 60% |
| Self-flow pig manure | 25 | 95% |
| Poultry dung | 150 | 65% |
| Chicken dung with bedding | 200 | 50% |
| Maize silage | 240 | 65% |
| Whey | 36 | 94% |
| Grain, flour, bread | 600 | Varies |
| Fruit & vegetable pulp | 108 | 80% |
| Sugar beet pulp | 168 | 75% |
| Molasses | 633 | Varies |
| Distillery stillage | 65 | 90% |
| Molasses vinasse | 50 | 90% |
| Beer spent grains | 110 | 78% |
| Corn starch mash | 100 | 80% |
| Potato pulp | 32 | 91% |
| Grease from grease traps (fatty pulp) | 200 | 25% DM |
| Slaughterhouse waste | 150 | Varies |
| Root vegetables | 100 | Varies |
| Technical glycerin | 250 | Varies |
| Pre-sorted municipal solid waste | 100 | Varies |
| Napier Grass (120–130 days cut) | 220 | 67% |
| Napier Grass (45–60 days cut) | 133 | 80% |
| Sugarcane | 240 | 35% |
| Milled straw | 330 | 20% |
| Straw pellets | 530 | 8% |
Key Insights
Conclusion
The efficiency of biogas production is strongly dependent on the type of substrate used. While high-energy substrates like molasses and grains deliver maximum biogas, agricultural residues such as Napier Grass, maize silage, and straw are more sustainable and scalable options for large-scale plants. For long-term operations, a balanced mix of substrates ensures stable digestion, higher methane yields, and improved overall plant economics.
Harnessing the right feedstock combinations can make biogas production not only profitable but also a powerful contributor to renewable energy and waste management strategies worldwide.
Disclaimer
The biogas output values provided in this article are approximate averages based on published research, industry data, and practical experience. Actual yields can vary depending on substrate quality, composition, pretreatment methods, digester design, and operating conditions. This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as technical, financial, or legal advice. For project-specific calculations and feasibility studies, please consult qualified biogas experts or engineers.
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