Analysis of the socio-economic feasibility of the implementation of an agro-energy condominium in western Paraná – Brazil

Brazil is a country with great agricultural potential due to its geographical position. All Brazilian states have a portion of their economy based on agriculture, which includes several activities, mainly farming and cattle and/or swine livestock, which generates a large amount of waste that can be used for energy production. When the waste is treated in biodigesters, the anaerobic bacteria produce biogas, which can be used as fuel for power generation. An alternative to produce energy in large scale is the combination of neighboring farms, forming agro-energy condominiums with a goal of accumulating the biogas produced and using it in power generation, however, studies on the financial viability of such projects are still scarce. Briefly analyzing the gradual increase of electricity consumption in Brazil, this study is justified by the need to reconcile the social, economic and environmental aspects. We verified the possibility of generating power by installing biodigesters on seven swine and cattle farms located in São Miguel do Iguaçu, Paraná, Brazil. We also aimed to reduce environmental impact and odors coming from the biodigesters, improve the quality of life of landowners and neighbors and use the biogas generated in the biodigesters for producing electricity to be used in those farms. We carried out field research in order to gather the necessary information for the feasibility study. Using the simple payback tool for financial return, the study showed a return of investment within 44 months, which is considered feasible. Several studies are still necessary regarding agro-energy condominiums, as there are many variables in these projects and different methodologies may be applied.