From prototype to market readiness
Renewable Energy Start Up
How the journey started
The story of NextGas began with a simple yet profound question during a casual coffee break: How can we turn the manure waste from horse stalls into something valuable?
This question, posed by a concerned horse stall owner, ignited our passion for innovation and set us on a mission to make a real difference in sustainable energy. We quickly recognized the enormous potential of dairy farms to produce biogas.
However, existing biogas technologies were too large and inefficient for the large segment of small to medium-sized farms. This gap in the market inspired us to develop a cost-effective and highly efficient solution.
The work so far results in a very successful proof of concept and a patent application at the European patent office.
milestones
March 2023
Prototype and Proof of Concept
November 2023
patent application
March 2024
NextGas GmbH is founded
March 2025
Pilot plans go into operation
March 2026
Sales start
Next steps
Construction of the hardware
The container based solution is being constructed. The key issues are the feed and discharge pumps, the circulation pumps, the heating of the reactors and the mechanical and thermal pre-treatment of the fermentation material.
Implement Automation
All mechanical elements and processes are automated and respond to input from the temperature, pressure, level and gas sensors. Operation can be monitored and controlled remotely.
Implement Data Analytics and Digital Twin
Analyze and Model Data: Utilize data analytics and machine learning to analyze large datasets and develop predictive models that optimize biogas production processes.
Develop and Manage Digital Twins: Create and maintain digital twin models of the biogas plant to simulate and optimize operational conditions.
Integrate and Visualize Data: Integrate data from various sources and design visualizations that effectively communicate insights to support informed decision-making.
Optimize the mechanical process and biological process
Manage Production and Coordination: Oversee the manufacturing process of the biogas plant by third-party companies, ensuring adherence to design specifications, timelines, and quality standards.
Ensure Quality and Compliance: Implement and monitor quality assurance processes to guarantee that all components meet required standards and regulatory compliance.
Apply Technical Expertise: Utilize a strong understanding of biogas systems to effectively communicate with manufacturers and address any technical issues during production.
The Prototype and Proof of Concept
In spring 2023, NextGas developed and tested a 1:1 scale prototype of its vacuum-enhanced bioreactor. The successful tests confirmed the highly increased efficiency in biogas production. The University of Eastern Finland validated the bioreactor with a Proof of Concept certification, affirming its efficiency and reliability. As a result of this research, NextGas filed a European patent application for the bioreactor's innovative vacuum-enhanced fermentation process. These milestones are making NextGas a leader in biogas innovation.
