New publication examines growing international interest in biomethane plants and related utilization concepts

The technical and legal aspects of safe and efficient production and use of biomethane and related utilization concepts are the focus of a new publication ‘Biogas to biomethane’  jointly prepared by the German Biogas Association (Fachverband Biogas); the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO); the European Biogas Association (EBA); and the German Technical and Scientific Association for Gas and Water (DVGW).

In the foreword to the brochure, Philippe Scholtès, Managing Director, Programme Development and Technical Cooperation, United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), wrote, “Biogas is an essential component of the global renewable energy mix. It allows us to transit to a low-carbon future. Biogas, produced from biomass, has the advantages of requiring low capital costs and being independent of weather patterns, making it a very reliable source of energy. It also has a significant greenhouse gas mitigation potential, especially when it is upgraded to biomethane, which can be distributed via already available natural gas pipelines or used directly in vehicles replacing fossil fuels.”

Horst Seide, President of the German Biogas Association, added, “In order to successfully manage global energy demand, we need to move away from the use of fossil fuels for electricity, heat and transport. The flexibility of biomethane with regard to its potential applications makes it an ideal basis for advancing this development in the energy sector.”

The publication looks at the basics of biomethane production and application and provides a detailed description of the biogas process using various raw materials, and the possible energy applications. It examines the process of converting biogas to biomethane, the various techniques for methane enrichment, and safety issues relating to the operation of a biomethane plant. It also examines the possible applications of biomethane in the natural gas grid, in high-pressure cylinders and in the transport sector. Consideration is given to the technical and legal conditions to be fulfilled within European and German contexts. An overview of the various partnership and financing options for biomethane projects in developing and emerging economies is also included.

The publication presents a number of international reference plants and features a directory of companies experienced in biomethane plant construction, project development, and component and process auxiliary production.

Biomethane is produced by the enrichment of the methane content of biogas, sewage gas and landfill gas. In Europe alone, there are currently around 460 biomethane plants in operation and the growth rate continues to be strong.

Original source: UNIDO
Published on 19 September 2017