Energia do biogás
- Created by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
- Reviewed by
- Renato Passos, Eng. de Software
Last updated: Apr 18, 2026
About this calculator
The Biogas Energy calculator converts the volume of biogas into equivalent electrical energy in kilowatt-hours (kWh). It uses the standard conversion factor of 1 cubic meter of biogas to approximately 6 kWh, based on the average calorific value of biogas with a methane content of about 55-65%. This tool is useful for quickly estimating the energy potential of biodigesters, landfills, or wastewater treatment plants, helping in the sizing of cogeneration systems or in the economic feasibility assessment of biogas projects.
The calculation is simple: multiply the volume of biogas in cubic meters by 6 to get the energy in kWh. For example, 10 m³ of biogas yields about 60 kWh. This factor is an average, as biogas composition varies depending on the feedstock (agricultural waste, sewage sludge, urban organic waste) and digestion conditions. The calculator considers the useful energy available for direct combustion in generators or boilers, disregarding conversion system losses.
You should use this calculator in contexts where you need a quick estimate of energy production from biogas, such as in renewable energy projects, cost-benefit analyses, or sustainability reports. It is ideal for engineers, agronomists, environmental managers, and students working with alternative energy sources. Avoid using the result for precise engineering calculations without considering laboratory analyses of the specific biogas.
Important precautions: the 6 kWh/m³ factor is a general reference. Biogas with higher methane content (above 70%) can generate more energy (up to 8 kWh/m³), while diluted biogas (with CO₂, N₂) will have lower calorific value. Additionally, the efficiency of the conversion equipment (engine-generator, boiler) is not included. For real calculations, it is recommended to measure the biogas composition and consult the manufacturer's efficiency curves. This tool serves as a first step in understanding the energy potential.
Frequently asked questions
What is biogas?
Biogas is a combustible gas produced by anaerobic digestion of organic matter, mainly composed of methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂), with traces of other gases.
Why does 1 m³ of biogas equal 6 kWh?
This value is an average based on the lower heating value of biogas (about 22 MJ/m³), converted to kWh (1 kWh = 3.6 MJ), resulting in approximately 6.1 kWh/m³, rounded to 6 kWh.
Is the 6 kWh/m³ factor valid for any biogas?
No. Methane content varies from 40% to 70%, altering the calorific value. Landfill biogas usually has less methane, while controlled digester biogas may have more. Use the factor as an initial estimate.
How to manually convert m³ of biogas to kWh?
Multiply the volume in cubic meters by 6. Example: 50 m³ × 6 = 300 kWh. For greater accuracy, adjust the factor according to methane content: content (%) × 0.12 ≈ approximate kWh/m³.
Does this calculator consider generator losses?
No. It only provides the energy contained in the biogas. The actual electrical energy depends on the efficiency of the engine-generator, which ranges from 30% to 40% for adapted Otto cycle engines.