Methane from Raw Biomass (Biomethane)
Biomass is commonly used in the production of gas products, which can result from processes such as gasification with dry matter or anaerobic digestion of wet matter. The resulting gases (syngas from gasification and biogas from anaerobic digestion) are then treated to extract methane as a secondary product instead of using the resulting gas directly for the generation of heat, electricity, or cogeneration. This process is called methanation, in which CO2 together with hydrogen reacts to produce methane. Biomethane is an energy carrier with increasing importance for businesses and low-income communities as it allows the production of energy with simple technology at lower costs. In simple terms, this is the synthesis of methane directly from renewable resources such as biomass. Biomethane can be transported in existing natural gas grids and is a potential source to reduce dependence on wood biomass or fossil fuels. Although ensuring continuous input of biomass, waste in sustainable conditions remains a challenge, a variety of sources for biomass are available and business models are multiplying to take advantage of discarded products with a low GHG emissions load when treated under the right conditions. Such treatment plants for energy production are a low-cost investment and profitable solution for chemical companies that aim to produce their energy while expanding operations in different portfolios with greener and sustainable solutions.
Stage of Life Cycle
Inputs
GHG Reduction Potential
According to the IFP, a research organization in the fields of energy, transport and the environment, the biomethane industry as a substitute for gas, has the potential to reduce gas emissions by 188 g of CO2 per kWh produced, injected or consumed. On average, this can represent 750,000 tons of CO2 equivalents per year for 0.3 Mt of biomethane or 4 TWh.
Solution Maturity Status
Well Established:
This technology has been operating for a number of years and is well-known/ successful in its industry or market.