Livestock waste transforms into energy and fertilizer through biogas plants
It is stated that processing livestock waste in Turkey can yield a significant potential for energy and organic fertilizer.
Waste generated as a result of livestock activities presents an important opportunity for energy and electricity production while reducing negative environmental impacts.
Energy Potential of Livestock Waste
Waste generated as a result of livestock activities harbors great potential in terms of energy production alongside its environmental hazards.
It is stated that producing biogas, particularly from cattle manure, contributes to the reduction of methane emissions as well as electricity and heat generation.
Turkey's Livestock Population Data
According to data from the Turkish Statistical Institute and the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Turkey has a significant livestock population as of December 31, 2025.
According to the released data, the country is home to 17 million 709 thousand cattle, 57 million 874 thousand small ruminants, and 394 million 32 thousand poultry.
Biomethane and Electricity Production Capacity
Ali Rıza Öner, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Waste Management and Waste-to-Energy Producers Association, drew attention to an annual biomethane potential of 4-5 billion cubic meters.
Mentioning an electricity production potential of approximately 8-10 billion kilowatt-hours, Öner stated that the annual waste of a single cow could meet a household's electricity needs for five months.
Main Challenges Faced by the Sector
Ali Rıza Öner pointed out that there are certain obstacles regarding the economic sustainability of biogas plants.
It was emphasized that high investment and operating costs, as well as increasing waste procurement costs, are among the most significant problems facing the sector.
Existing Plants and Production Status
There are approximately 100 plants operating in Turkey that use biogas obtained from animal and plant waste for electricity generation.
It is recorded that these plants have a total installed capacity of 313 megawatts and can generate 2.4 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually.