Summaries :
- Derived from organic materials, biomethane serves as a renewable energy source that reduces carbon emissions by 81% compared to natural gas (according to life cycle analysis), and simultaneously enhances air quality.
- In contrast to imported natural gas, biomethane is generated domestically. Every biomethane facility generates approximately 3 to 7 local, non-transferable jobs.
- In France, close to 700 sites for biomethane production are presently linked to the network, boasting an annual capacity of approximately 9 TWh.
Biomethane is a sustainable gas generated from the breakdown of organic waste originating from homes, farming, or industrial processes. It serves as a renewable substitute for natural gas for households, industries, farmers, and local governments. According to a life cycle assessment, its carbon footprint is eight times lower than that of natural gas.
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The Environmental and Economic Benefits of Biomethane
Derived from organic materials, biomethane serves as a renewable energy source that reduces carbon emissions by 81% compared to natural gas (according to life cycle analysis), and simultaneously enhances air quality.
Meanwhile, the process of producing biomethane effectively utilizes waste and reduces the reliance on chemical fertilizers, which generate CO2 emissions during their production and transportation. Farmers can transform their waste into renewable energy by creating biomethane, allowing them to earn extra income and aid in decarbonizing the energy supply.
Industries may enhance the value of their organic waste, including wood, by setting up methanization units close to their facilities. This streamlines their environmental management under better economic conditions for the extraction of co-products and by-products.
Biomethane: Stored Easily, Used Efficiently
A major advantage of biomethane is that it share the same physical properties as natural gas. This indicates that it can be moved via current gas systems without the need for new investment. Similar to natural gas, it can be stored conveniently and in substantial amounts, then utilized when required. These storage features guarantee a steady supply and enhance the overall adaptability of the energy system.
Biomethane is a force that generates employment and promotes a circular economy. Unlike imported natural gas, biomethane is generated domestically. Every biomethane facility generates approximately 3 to 7 local, non-transferable jobs. Additionally, the biomethane industry promotes the advancement of a circular economy by recovering waste.
What is the Process for Producing Biomethane?
The production of biomethane consists of three essential phases: gathering raw materials, methanization, and purifying biogas. Following these processes, biomethane is prepared for the last phase: reintegration into gas networks.
Step 1: Gathering Raw Materials
Biomethane can be generated from different origins. The typical method, known as methanization, utilizes inputs like agricultural waste, food industry refuse, household waste, or community refuse, along with grass clippings or roadside plants. Here are a few instances:
Biological waste. A typical source of biomethane is organic waste, including kitchen scraps, garden refuse, agricultural byproducts, and food remnants. These can be utilized in what are known as fermentation facilities or biogas plants to generate biomethane.
Crops for energy. Some plant species cultivated specifically for energy generation can act as a base for biomethane production. Examples consist of corn, grass, alfalfa, and beets. These crops are collected and fermented at biogas facilities.
Liquid waste and animal excrement. Animal waste like slurry and manure also serves as appropriate substrates for biomethane production. When paired with other organic substances, they can be utilized in biogas facilities to generate biomethane.
Manufacturing refuse. Certain sectors generate organic waste suitable for the production of biomethane. Examples consist of waste from food processing, waste generated by the beverage sector, and waste produced by the paper and pulp sector.
Wastewater residue. Sewage sludge, a by-product of treating wastewater, can additionally be utilized for biomethane generation. Utilizing sewage sludge in biogas facilities allows for the production of biomethane, and simultaneously, it enables the disposal of sewage sludge while capturing the methane gas that might otherwise be released into the atmosphere.
A second approach, hydrothermal gasification, makes use of wet or liquid waste and biomass such as sewage sludge or methanization digestate that is unsuitable for land application.
Ultimately, pyrogasification utilizes solid waste that is presently not recycled, including byproducts from the wood industry, discarded furniture, plastics, or solid recovered fuels (SRF).
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Step 2: Methanation
Methanization is a natural process in which organic matter (from plants or animals) decomposes without oxygen through the action of microorganisms, generating biogas. This process happens organically in areas such as wetlands. It is the most developed method for generating green gases and has been implemented in specialized facilities.
Step 3: Purification of biogas
The methanization process produces biogas that needs to be purified to eliminate substances aside from CH4 (methane) and be odorized prior to its injection into gas grids. When purified, biogas transforms into biomethane.
Step 4: Introducing into gas networks
Current gas networks do not require alterations to support biomethane. In France, close to 700 sites for biomethane production are presently linked to the network, boasting an annual capacity of approximately 9 TWh.
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Editor: Tri Indah Lestari
