Economic Analysis of Biodigestion as an Appropriate Waste-to-Energy Technology in the Developing World with Case Study

Abstract

The study explores the economic benefits of biodigestion systems as a waste-to-energy conversion technology on individual farms in the developing world. The design components are discussed, including an analysis of the various social, economic and technical factors that influence the system. Finally, these factors are applied to two systems currently in use in different areas of rural Costa Rica. This study concludes that biodigestion can be an attractive economic option as a waste-to-energy technology in the developing world and will result in a positive NPV up to $4,800 for an average rural farm over the life of the system.