Feasibility Study for an Anaerobic Digester for the South Sligo Area

Tender description

The proposed project aims to deliver a comprehensive feasibility study on the development of anaerobic digestion For South Sligo and to inform a strategic plan to support its deployment. South Sligo, with its strong agricultural economy and food sector (including a vibrant tourism and restaurant sector), appears to be well positioned to develop anaerobic digestion, as part its transition towards a low‐carbon, circular economy. The deployment of biogas in South Sligo has the potential to ensure competitive and affordable (renewable) energy for consumers; to create new opportunities for growth and jobs; and to provide greater security of energy supply. The location of South Sligo, and the significant distance to the nearest connection point to the gas network (Ballina approx. 32 Km), pose interesting challenges in terms of technological pathways and business models, but this issue can be addressed as part of the study. There are also some benefits from the introduction of anaerobic digestion that would enhance the environmental quality of the South Sligo area, particularly in respect of water and air, in addition to decreasing emissions and increasing energy independence. The proposed study will address the challenges and opportunities outlined above, through a holistic, integrated approach, considering the whole value chain of anaerobic digestion in South Sligo and its contribution to the development of a local circular bio‐economy. The team will be expected to leverage state‐of‐the‐art knowledge in science, technology and business models, and to apply cocreation principles involving local stakeholders, to identify and test feasible pathways for the deployment of anaerobic digestion in South Sligo. The general objective of the proposed study is to harness biomass resources within the Dingle Peninsula to contribute to the transition to sustainable energy and to support the socio‐economic development of South Sligo, by becoming a leader in the transition to a rural bio‐economy in Ireland. The specific scop