Potentials for Technological Advancement in Anaerobic Digestion Plants: a Multicriteria Analysis

Anaerobic digestion (AD) production and digestate management require increasing automation and digital management. Indeed, using digital technologies can reduce costs and optimize the resources used. However, the stable operation of these technologies relies on widespread and uninterrupted access to the Internet in plant and digestate distribution areas. In this research, 4G internet connection coverage was analyzed in Italian AD plants and agricultural areas within a 15-km radius, where digestate can be returned. The results were compared for different regions in Italy to identify possible critical areas for the digitization of bioenergy production processes. Preliminary results show that the sites where the AD plants are located are generally covered with a stable 4G internet connection, allowing the application of process automation technologies. However, in numerous cases, digestate distribution areas, especially in southern Italy, highlight a weak connection, hindering smart digestate adoption. These results should be considered to implement energy-saving policies and digital transition in the sector.