Greenfinch also carried out field trials each on 100m2 plots, growing maize, jerusalem artichokes, and lucerne.   Ryegrass was grown more extensively over an area of 1 hectare and harvested during the growing season to be fed directly into an 18m³ digester.   Problems were encountered during the trials, which included rabbit and vermin damage, limitations regarding the use of agricultural machinery when planting and harvesting the crops on such a small plot size, and weed control.   As a result of these trials it was decided that Greenfinch would look to local farmers as providers of feedstock and reliable data on crop production and yields specific to their land.  

Greenfinch continues to use the 18m³ digester for research purposes, changing the feedstocks depending on their seasonal availability.

Pilot & laboratory scale trials are also on going using a variety of feedstocks and co-digesting combinations.   For further information on our trials please contact Greenfinch.