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  2. AgSTAR
  3. Building & Operating Biogas Recovery Systems

AgSTAR Project Development Handbook

AgSTAR's Anaerobic Digester Project Development Handbook is a comprehensive compilation of the latest knowledge in the industry on best practices for anaerobic digestion (AD)/ biogas systems. The goal of the Handbook is to ensure long-term project success for AD/biogas systems by providing background and a framework for project development.

The 3rd edition of the Handbook covers the basics of AD/biogas systems, including an overview of the biology and chemistry of the system, and addresses key questions to ask when developing and implementing an anaerobic digester project. Information in the Handbook can help stakeholders make informed decisions to maximize both profits and environmental performance while reducing implementation risks.

The AgSTAR Project Development Handbook is intended for agriculture and livestock producers, farm owners, developers, financiers, policymakers, implementers, and others interested in learning more about best practices for AD/biogas systems.

AgSTAR Project Development Handbook

The Handbook is organized into the following sections:

  1. Introduction and Considerations
  2. Anaerobic Digestion Overview
  3. Process Fundamentals
  4. Digester Feedstocks
  5. AD/Biogas System Products, Equipment and Uses
  6. Economic and Financial Factors
  7. Screening and Feasibility Studies
  8. Business Relationships
  9. Permitting
  10. Public and Community Outreach
  11. Safety, Operation, and Maintenance Considerations
  12. Additional Tools and Resources
  • AgSTAR Project Development Handbook (pdf) (6.47 MB, April 2020, 430-B-20-001)

AgSTAR

  • About AgSTAR
    • Accomplishments
    • Celebrating 20 Years of Anaerobic Digestion
  • Events
    • Upcoming Events
    • Past Events
    • Webinars
  • Learn About Biogas Recovery
    • What is Biogas Recovery?
    • How Does AD Work?
    • Anaerobic System Design & Technology
    • Benefits of AD
    • Training Resources
  • Practices to Reduce Methane Emissions from Livestock Manure Management
  • Planning AD Projects
    • 10 Keys to Digester Success
    • Risk Analysis and Technical Review Checklist
    • Is AD Right For You?
    • Project Planning and Financing
    • Vendor Directory
  • Building & Operating Biogas Recovery Systems
    • Guidelines and Permitting
    • Project Development Handbook
    • Anaerobic Digester/Biogas System Operator Guidebook
    • Technical Guidance (Library of Tools)
  • Biogas Toolkit
  • Success Stories
    • Stories from the Farm
    • Project Profiles
    • Project Spotlights
    • Meet an Operator
    • Anaerobic Digestion Ombudsman
  • Projects & Opportunities
    • Livestock AD Database
    • Data & Trends
    • Market Opportunities
    • International Projects
    • RNG from Agricultural Resources
  • AgSTAR Partners
  • Frequent Questions about Livestock Biogas Projects
Contact Us About the AgSTAR Program
Contact Us to ask a question, provide feedback, or report a problem.
Last updated on May 5, 2025
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