Biodegradation as heat source in buildings

The climate challenge changes the energy system and power shortages create a need for new energy storage and complementary energy systems that can counteract peaks in power demand.

Biological energy storage is a very large and largely untapped resource. Biodegradation during composting releases heat, far more than the biogas potential in the same material. The heat is at a relatively low-temperature, but today's energy-efficient buildings have a very low power demand enabling low-temperature systems. Biomass from a larger residential plot can be enough to heat a small energy efficient house.

This feasibility study will investigate whether it is feasible to heat buildings through a power-regulated, low-temperature system of biodegradation, ie composting. The project enables future pilot projects with buildings that are self-sufficient in heat. The result will be disseminated through popular science articles and through education at Chalmers and through Building future institute.