The proposed action titled «Development of innovative methods for the utilization of by-products and a model financial evaluation framework in the Thessaly Region» and acronym EVALUwAsTE aims at the rational management and utilization of organic waste and by-products, with emphasis on the production and upgrading of biogas into biomethane. Thessaly, due to its strong agro-food and livestock activity, produces significant quantities of raw materials that can serve as the basis for sustainable energy utilization, enhancing energy self-sufficiency and the transition to a climate-neutral economy.
The methodology of the project is based on the combined use of advanced tools and analytical approaches:
• Mapping and quantification of available waste streams and by-products through Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
• Multi-criteria analysis (MCDA) to identify optimal locations for the installation of biomethane production units.
• Investigation of production and utilization scenarios, including the potential for utilizing the produced digestate.
• Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) to quantify environmental impacts and benefits.
• Development of a techno-economic evaluation model, capable of estimating economic indicators (CAPEX, OPEX, NPV, IRR) to support strategic decisions.
The implementation will be carried out by a consortium of two partners with high complementarity:
• The National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (EKPA), with expertise in techno-economic analysis, environmental assessment and the use of GIS tools.
• The company Solis from Thessaly, with experience in the technical development of projects, waste management and the siting of units.
The expected results include:
• Analytical database and thematic GIS maps for the raw materials of the Region.
• Determination of optimal locations for unit installation and configuration of operating scenarios.
• Systematic assessment of environmental and socio-economic parameters.
• Outreach, information and exploitation actions for the Thessaly Region and potentially for other regions.
The EVALUwAsTE project is expected to strengthen the circular economy and the energy transition in Thessaly, offering practical tools for the exploitation of available resources, creating new value chains and contributing to sustainable regional development.