Permits
The regulatory requirements for building an on-farm anaerobic digestion system depends on location and the types and combinations of feedstcok used.
Waste Discharge Regulation
As anaerobic digestion system may involve numerous waste streams and different process technologies, a site-specific waste discharge authorization from the Ministry of Environment (MOE) will be required in most situations. In most cases the waste discharge authorization will be one of the following three types:
- Solid or Liquid Waste Management Plan and subsequent Operational Certificate for systems using mixed feedstcok (agricultural and non-agricultural waste) or non-agricultural feedstcok exclusively, and the system is required to be authorized under the local government’s solid or liquid waste management plan (SWMP/LWMP). To obtain this authorization, an amendment to the SWMP/LWMP may be required. Proponents must contact the local government and regional MOE office to determine if an amendment is required.
- MoE Waste Discharge Permit - for facilities utilizing non-agricultural waste exclusively or non-agricultural waste mixed with agricultural waste and the facility is not required to be authorized under the local government’s SWMP/LWMP.
- Operate in accordance with the Agricultural Waste Control Regulation (AWCR) - for facilities utilizing 100% agricultural waste.* In addition to meeting the AWCR, the proponent must practice due diligence and adhere to the Best Management Practices (BMP). Note: A site-specific waste discharge authorization is required if slaughter wastes is used.
* Agricultural waste, which may originate elsewhere and be transported to the farm, is defined in the Agricultural Waste Control Regulation (AWCR) as manure, used mushroom medium and agricultural vegetation waste.
** The MOE will be releasing a guideline in 2011 to provide an overview and guidance on the current MOE regulatory framework for on-farm anaerobic digestion systems. Watch this space **
