‘The Electric Cow’ Project

Askham Bryan College installs a 22kw Biolectric farm scale anaerobic digester, the project has been aptly named “The Electric Cow”

Askham Bryan College, a leader in agricultural education, has taken a significant step towards sustainability with the installation of a Biolectric farm scale anaerobic digester located at the on-campus dairy farm. This innovative addition is not just a technological upgrade; it’s a testament to the college’s commitment to eco-friendly farming practices and renewable energy education.

Westfield Farm is an integral part of the college, milking 170 cows; and is well equipped with a wide selection of machinery, alongside a state-of-the-art robotic milking parlour facilities for both commercial and educational purposes.

Funding to support this scheme has been allocated from the York and North Yorkshire Net Zero Fund. This fund is led by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, using investment secured from the UK Government.

Harnessing Renewable Energy from Dairy Waste

At the heart of this project is the Biolectric anaerobic digester, a cutting-edge system designed to convert organic waste into valuable renewable energy. Specifically tailored for farm scale operations, this digester processes slurry—a mixture of manure and water—produced by the college’s dairy herd. Through a natural process of anaerobic digestion, where organic material is broken down in the absence of oxygen, the system generates biogas. This biogas is then used to produce electricity and heat, reducing the farm’s reliance on external energy sources and cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions associated with methane.

Sustainability in Action

The installation of the Biolectric digester aligns perfectly with the college’s broader goals of sustainability and environmental stewardship. By converting waste into energy, the college is not only managing its dairy farm’s waste more efficiently but also setting an example for sustainable agricultural practices. The system’s byproduct, known as digestate, is a nutrient-rich substance that can be used as a natural fertilizer, further enhancing the farm’s sustainability by reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.

Educational Benefits for Students

One of the most exciting aspects of this project is the educational opportunities it provides for students. Askham Bryan College is renowned for its hands-on approach to agricultural education, and the new anaerobic digester offers students a unique opportunity to learn about renewable energy and waste management technologies firsthand. Students can observe and study the entire process—from the collection of slurry to the production of biogas and the use of digestate as fertilizer—gaining practical knowledge that will be invaluable in their future careers.

A Model for the Future of Farming

The Biolectric digester is more than just an investment in technology; it’s an investment in the future of farming. As the agricultural industry faces increasing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, the college is leading by example, demonstrating how modern technology can be harnessed to create sustainable, energy-efficient farming operations.

This initiative not only supports the college’s educational mission, but also positions the college as a model for other agricultural institutions looking to adopt renewable energy solutions. It shows how traditional farming practices can be adapted to meet the challenges of the 21st century, ensuring that farming remains both productive and sustainable.

Looking Ahead

With the successful installation of the Biolectric anaerobic digester, Askham Bryan College is setting a new standard for sustainability in agricultural education. As the system becomes fully operational, it will provide ongoing benefits to the college, its students, and the wider community, all while reducing the farm’s carbon footprint and advancing the college’s environmental goals.

In the years to come, the college’s dairy farm will not only produce high-quality dairy products but will also be a hub for innovation and sustainability, leading the way towards a greener future for the agricultural industry.

Whether you’re a student, educator, or farmer, the installation of this anaerobic digester is a powerful reminder of the importance of integrating renewable energy technologies into our farming practices. The college continues to inspire and educate the next generation of farmers, ensuring that they are well-equipped to face the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly changing world.

Askham Bryan College have joined the Race to Zero, a global campaign in the education sector for a Zero Carbon World, and are committed to becoming a net zero organisation and a leader in sustainability practices by 2050. You can read more about our progress and commitments via the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Report.

Find out more information about Biolectric and dairy energy via their website: www.dairyenergy.co.uk