A critical analysis on biogas production and utilisation potential from palm oil mill effluent

• Published in: Journal of cleaner production 2022-08, Vol.361, p.132040, Article 132040
• Main Authors: Nasrin, Abu Bakar, Abdul Raman, Abdul Aziz, Bukhari, Nurul Adela, Sukiran, Mohamad Azri, Buthiyappan, Archina, Subramaniam, Vijaya, Aziz, Astimar Abdul, Loh, Soh Kheang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biogas plant; Business model; Greenhouse gases; POME treatment; Renewable energy
• ISSN: 0959-6526; 1879-1786
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2022.132040

The conventional method used for palm oil mill effluent (POME) treatment is associated with several environmental issues that affect the sustainable production of palm oil. Integrated POME treatment with a closed anaerobic digester is identified as a practical cleaner production approach to mitigate global issues on energy security and climate change and enhance the sustainability of the industry. This paper discusses the potential of capturing biogas to the palm oil industry and Malaysia's renewable energy (RE) and greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions targets. Approximately 75% GHG reduction could be achieved for every t of crude palm oil produced from palm oil mill with biogas capture. In total, 1750 million m3 biogas with GHG savings of 19.5 million t CO2eq can be achieved annually, if all palm oil mills in Malaysia capture the biogas. A 540 MW installed capacity or 37 million MMBtu in the form of bio-compressed natural gas (Bio-CNG) or biomethane, can supplement the nation's energy mix for the sustainable energy generation. These contribute towards enhancing the sustainability criteria and economic performance of the palm oil mills by adopting cleaner production technology of POME treatment for circular economy and better market access of palm oil products. Future work should emphasise on nationwide biogas implementation through synergising and strengthening private commitments and the government supports. [Display omitted] •Palm oil mill effluent (POME) generation, characteristics and treatment methods.•Biogas production and utilisation for renewable energy and GHG mitigation.•Economic and environmental benefits of biogas for sustainable palm oil.•Business model and research gaps for nationwide biogas implementation.