Evaluation of Biogas-to-Energy Options for Edmonton’s Gold Bar Wastewater Treatment Plant

EPCOR is developing near-and long-term buildout options for Edmonton’s Gold Bar Wastewater Treatment Plant (GBWWTP). Identified upgrades consider integrated resource recovery opportunities where possible to increase operational efficiency. Digester gas (biogas) generated at GBWWTP is an on-site renewable energy resource. Currently, biogas not used in GBWWTP’s boilers is flared, and represents an opportunity to improve operating efficiency through a more cost-effective Biogas-to-Energy (BTE) technology. A review of BTE technologies, their benefits/drawbacks, biogas conditioning requirements, advanced digestion considerations, operational requirements, and major capital and operating costs was conducted for informed decision making purposes. The review found that a reciprocating engine generator combined heat and power (CHP) solution to be the best BTE technology for possible implementation at the GBWWTP.