Reconstruction of the control system of the biogas plant in Dobruška and extension with new technologies

This year, we have implemented the replacement of the control system (CS) at the biogas plant (BPS) in Dobruška. The reconstruction included the replacement of the old Simatic S7-300 control system from Siemens with a new control system from our company. In addition to replacing the PLC unit hardware and I/O cards, the upgrade also included the creation of new application software and visualization, which included a new operator station.

A major advantage of the control system refurbishment for the customer is the new functionality, thanks to which they will be able to intervene in the system easily and efficiently in the event of changes or modifications to the controlled technology. At the same time, the S7-300 range of control systems from Siemens is no longer supported and it would be very expensive to provide spare parts in the future.

Schedule of works

The project work for the BPS modernisation started at the end of 2023. The extension included the construction of new fermenters, an end store and the delivery of additional feed wagons. It also included the construction of technology to inject gas into the distribution system.
As part of the upgrade project, ZAT supplied new electrical and MaR switchgear built on our company's control system. The implementation included interconnection with the injection technology. Thanks to this option, the operator can manage the BPS more efficiently and decide whether it is profitable for him to sell electricity or gas.

The final stage will involve the delivery of a superior energy efficiency system. This has been developed by our company on the SimONet platform. It will give the customer a comprehensive overview of the status of the BPS as well as energy prices. The system can be connected to the market operator and other aggregation services.