Michigan State University’s Green Technology Recognized

LANSING, Mich. — The innovative South Campus Anaerobic Digester at Michigan State University received the Institutional Biogas Project of the Year Award from the American Biogas Council.

Serving both a functional and educational purpose for the university, the anaerobic digester was designed by Anaergia Inc., headquartered in Burlington, Ontario. Weiland Davco, based in Lansing, Mich., served as the project contractor while 2g Energy, headquartered in Heek, Germany, was the engine supplier on the project.

“It’s an honor to receive this recognition. This is a unique project as it’s one of the largest operating anaerobic digesters on a university campus in the United States. Through collaboration with Anaergia and our teaching, research and outreach programs, we are developing new sustainable energy solutions that will have a positive impact in all regions of the world,” said Dana Kirk, PE, from the Michigan State University’s department of biosystems and agricultural engineering, in a statement.

Kirk is also the manager of the Anaerobic Digestion Research and Education Center, which facilitates the research, development and evaluation of technologies associated with integrated anaerobic digestion systems.

The anaerobic digestion facility generates approximately 3,000 MWh per year of renewable energy by processing organic waste from campus dining halls, food processing facilities and the university’s farms. In addition to renewable energy for campus use, the facility also diverts nearly 10,000 tons per year of organic waste from landfills and wastewater treatment plants.

“This anaerobic digestion project not only advances the environmental sustainability initiatives of the university, but also serves as a great platform to inspire the next generation of leaders,” said Steve Watzeck, CEO of Anaergia Inc. “It is an honor that Michigan State University and the project partners were recognized for this innovative project by the American Biogas Council.”