Creating a viable European market for biomethane
Biomethane, a renewable gas produced from organic matter such as waste and agricultural by-products, could play a critical role in the decarbonisation of the EU’s energy system. A key cost benefit is the possibility of using existing gas distribution networks for this purpose. Technological advances are just one piece of the puzzle, however. For biomethane to be part of Europe’s energy mix, conducive market and policy environments are needed, along with widespread societal acceptance.
Identifying biomethane opportunities
The EU-funded GreenMeUp(opens in new window) project was launched with the aim of identifying biomethane opportunities in Europe’s energy and transport sectors. Potential production routes, feedstocks and end uses were analysed, along with the market conditions in seven European countries. “In each of these countries, hubs were established so that biogas associations could work closely with industry and policymakers, as well as the public,” explains project coordinator Myrsini Christou from the Centre for Renewable Energy Sources and Saving Foundation(opens in new window) in Greece. “We brought together more than 500 stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue.”
Industry, policy and citizen perceptions
The involvement of these three elements in discussions – industry, policy and the public – helped the project team to better understand perceptions from different sectors of society when it comes to biomethane production and use. All this fed into detailed country reports(opens in new window), which captured specific market, policy and social landscapes in the countries involved. More than 10 biomethane plants were visited, and feedstock and technology assessments carried out. This gave the project team a solid understanding of the different feedstocks in use, the technologies involved, and some of the main challenges the sector faces. “We also drew experiences and good practices from advanced European countries as well as countries like Brazil, Canada, China, India and the United States,” says Christou. “These insights were also compiled into a valuable knowledge-sharing report.” Field research also involved 2 200 respondents and used innovative tools such as fuzzy cognitive maps(opens in new window) to visualise the relationships between the factors that influence the market development. “In total, we developed and analysed 323 concepts,” notes Christou. “Findings showed low public awareness, but strong potential for growth.”
Maximising resources and innovative technologies
The project put forward some key recommendations. These include maximising the use of agricultural and organic waste, promoting innovative upgrading technologies, and enabling grid injection. The project team also stressed the importance of investing in innovative technologies and sustainable raw material supply chains. “Key strategies include increasing awareness of biomethane’s environmental benefits and integrating biomethane into transport and heating sectors,” remarks Christou. “We also proposed financial tools such as subsidies, and investment support, as well as streamlined permit processes and a cohesive policy framework linking agriculture, waste management, energy and transport.” A set of eight universally applicable indicators(opens in new window) for assessing biomethane market integration at the national level were developed, along with a standardised set of criteria. Engaging with industry, citizens and policymakers has helped to ensure that a wide range of insights and priorities will be accounted for as biomethane moves closer to widespread roll-out. The hubs created through GreenMeUp will continue to promote biomethane and establish bridges of communication with policymakers. “I am very happy that the project achieved its objectives and will play a pivotal role in guiding and supporting new measures,” says Christou.