Development and performance evaluation of insulated biogas plant and usage potential in hilly regions

In hilly regions, the average ambient temperature during summers and winters typically ranges from 297 to 307 K (24 to 34 degrees C) and 277 to 293 K (4 to 20 degrees C). Therefore, this paper aims to describe the development and evaluation of an insulated Himshakti biogas plant (plant 2) for hilly regions and its comparison with the conventional biogas plant (plant 1). In terms of gas production, plant 1 generated an average of 0.614 m(3) (614.18 L), while plant 2 produced significantly more gas, i.e., 0.775 m(3) (775.23 L) due to its insulation which generates more income. Henceforth, the results indicated that the biogas production rate in the insulated plant was highest (820 L or 0.82 m(3)) when the temperature was at 307 K (34 degrees C) in the month of May. The comparative economic analysis showed that the insulated plant model is the most feasible for hilly regions, covering the total expenditure in less than 3 years and giving returns within the next 22 years. The developed biogas plant is favorable for its temperature, greater life span, more income, and reduced daily expenses (in terms of LPG).