Biogas plant to fulfil 100% of Del Monte's energy needs

Food producer, distributor and marketer Del Monte is developing a Sh963.4 million (€8.65 million) biogas plant at its pineapple farm in Thika, Africa.

Designed to generate 5MW of renewable electricity, the plant, expected to be the largest of its kind in the nation, will be consumed on site helping to save Del Monte millions in electricity costs. Any excess electricity will be sold to the Kenya's National Grid.

Pinepower has been chosen to build the plant, which will be located on three acres of land on the Del Monte Farm, and the construction phase of the project will create jobs for no less than 100 people. The company says around 30 full-time jobs will also become available.

Del Monte says the plant will satisfy 100% of its energy needs thanks to the installation of the CHP system, which will generate heat as well.