Ag Methane To Power Fuel Cells

The informative illustration below helps explain each process and path of materials in using farm-derived methane in a fuel cell. Dr. Norman Scott and a team of researchers at Cornell University are evaluating the feasibility of such a system. Potential benefits include:

(1) Containment and treatment of dairy farm waste;

(2) Recycling of fibrous materials for cow bedding;

(3) Production of methane for heating, and/or electricity for on-farm use;

(4) Reuse of liquid nutrients as fertilizer.

A further explanation of potential benefits was provided by Dr. Scott at the NFEC Annual Conference, August 7-9, 2000. He outlined a much broader scheme for a community of the future that puts sustainable ag processes at the heart of the rural community.  Other interactive processes could co-support one another and enhance rural economic development.

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