Biomethane is a biologically derived gas produced through natural processes, without the use of chemical compounds. It is a renewable natural gas obtained from the decomposition of organic matter (biomass) found in urban waste, animal manure, agricultural residues, and other biodegradable materials. Biomethane is produced by purifying biogas, which is a mixture of methane and carbon dioxide. During the “upgrading” process, CO₂ and other greenhouse gases are removed, making biomethane a clean energy source. According to a 2021 study conducted by CNR and IIA, in collaboration with IVECO and CIB, the use of liquefied biomethane alone can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 121% compared to diesel and decrease nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) emissions by 65%. Biomethane can be used in various sectors, including heating, power generation, and transportation, as it is fully compatible with natural gas-powered vehicles. Although methane and biomethane have similar compositions (biomethane is 94% methane), they differ significantly in carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions: Methane emissions can reach 35% CO₂, Biomethane emissions remain below 1%.

How is Biomethane Produced?

Biomethane production is an innovative and sustainable process that utilizes biodegradable organic materials to generate a low-carbon energy source.

The process occurs through anaerobic digestion, in which organic matter decomposes in the absence of oxygen.

Main Production Steps:

1. Raw Material Collection

○ Various organic waste sources, such as urban waste, food scraps, animal manure, and agricultural residues, are collected and processed by removing inorganic and incompatible components through mechanical separation.

2. Anaerobic Digestion

○ The organic materials are introduced into an anaerobic digester, where anaerobic bacteria decompose them, producing methane and carbon dioxide as primary byproducts.

3. Gas Purification (“Upgrading”)

○ The biogas is purified by removing CO₂ and other impurities, resulting in clean biomethane, which is adjusted based on its intended use.

4. Storage & Distribution

○ The purified biomethane is stored in tanks and then distributed for use in fuel stations, power plants, and household gas networks. It is also widely used in industrial applications, such as steel decarbonization.

Environmental Sustainability

• Biomethane is a renewable, low-carbon energy source that Significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
• The carbon released during combustion is offset by carbon absorption in plants during growth.

Optimized Waste Management

• Biomethane production recycles organic waste, reducing landfill use and promoting sustainable waste disposal.

Diversification of Energy Sources

• Biomethane serves as a viable alternative to fossil fuels, helping reduce dependence on non-renewable resources.

Versatility

• Biomethane is compatible with existing natural gas infrastructure.
• It can be used for electricity generation, heating, and transportation, powering all natural gas-fueled vehicles.