Liaoning Huishan Cow Farm: World's largest biomass project

Liaoning Huishan Cow Farm

China is set to commence production at the world's largest biogas project, which is based and powered on cow manure. It is hoped that the Liaoning Huishan Cow Farm, which is set to go online in September, will help alleviate the ever increasing energy demands of the country.

The Liaoning Huishan Cow Farm has a bovine population of 250,000 whose waste with be then converted into biogas. This in turn is expected to produce 38,000 MWh a year through four GE gas engines. The energy generated will be sold to the state grid in China. It is expected to reduce about 180,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.

One of main feature of the Shenyang-based farm, is the utilisation of fuel circulation. In addition to the use of biogas for power generation, the liquid (residual from biogas production) will be used as a 'liquid fertiliser' to nourish the grass in the pasture, while solid waste can and will be sold as organic fertiliser, enabling the surrounding land to become an agricultural base.

"We are glad to be a part of the Huishan gas energy project as China and other countries in Asia seek to harness their own diverse renewable and alternative resources to create cleaner sources of energy," said Prady Iyyanki, CEO, gas engines for GE Power & Water.

The cost of cows

It is ironic really as livestock 'emissions' (via the meat industry) account for nine percent of carbon dioxide, 65 percent of nitrous oxide and 37 percent of methane of all human-related greenhouse gas emissions. They also generate 64 percent of ammonia created, contributing to acid rain.

It's not just the emission factor though.

Livestock rearing currently uses a massive 30 percent of the Earth's land surface, with even more land needed to produce feed. It is estimated that 70 percent of the Amazon rainforest that has been cleared has been used for grazing. With global meat production projected to more than double from 229 million tonnes in 1999/2001 levels to 465 million metric tonnes by 2050 and milk output growing from 580 to 1043 million metric tons, it is clear to see the potential for change.

However if we can use some of the waste to offset these emissions, then perhaps cows can help the fight on climate change aside from being a major contributor.

Relevant articles:

China's increased meat demand | Can giving up meat save the planet? | 2030: A perfect storm

Timon Singh

Timon Singh is a graduate of Liverpool University where he received a degree in Social and Economic History. He has previously worked for BBC Magazines on BBC Who Do You Think You Are? Magazine, the publication for the popular genealogy show.

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