Biogas production from microalgae

The unsustainable use of fossil fuels has led to environmental concerns, energy crises, and global climate change. Microalgae have been pointed out as a potential feedstock to cope with all those issues. In this chapter recent investigations dealing with microalgae biomass for biogas production has been reviewed. Two of the main limiting steps related to biogas production, namely hydrolysis and methanogenesis, are discussed. Additionally, a low-cost biorefinery approach is presented in the context of producing additional products using other streams (carbon dioxide and digestates) rather than methane generated during anaerobic digestion (AD). The scope and limitations of commercialization using microalgae for the production of biogas is also covered. Although full-scale experience is limited, implementation is increasing as indicated by the number of research projects supported worldwide.