What is Biomethane

The typical composition of raw biogas does not meet the minimum CNG fuel specifications. In particular, the COand sulfur content in raw biogas is too high for it to be used as vehicle fuel without additional processing. Biogas that has been upgraded by removing H2S, moisture and carbon dioxide is known as biomethane.


Biomethane can be liquefied, creating a product known as liquefied biomethane (LBM). Two of the main advantages of LBM are that it can be transported relatively easily and it can be dispensed to either LNG vehicles or CNG vehicles. Liquid biomethane is transported in the same manner as LNG, that is, via insulated tanker trucks designed for transportation of cryogenic liquids.


Biomethane is more flexible in its application than any other renewable source of energy. Its ability to be injected directly into the existing natural gas grid allows for energy-efficient and cost-effective transport. This allows gas grid operators to enable consumers to make an easy transition to a renewable source of gas. The diverse, flexible spectrum of applications in the areas of electricity generation, heat provision, and mobility creates a broad base of potential customers.

Biomethane can be used to generate electricity and heating from within smaller decentralized, or large centrally-located combined heat and power plants. It can be used by heating systems with a highly efficient fuel value, and employed as a regenerative power source in gas-powered vehicles. The utilization of biomethane as a source of energy is a crucial step toward a sustainable energy supply.


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Salman can be reached at salman@bioenergyconsult.com or salman@cleantechloops.com.

One thought on “What is Biomethane

  1. Biomethane is the term given to processed digester methane. In the UK, meaning that it meets the minimum standards to be injected into the gas main. Besides dewatering the gas and removing H2S, some propane is injected to improve the net CV and that each KWhr of this renewable energy gas can be certified for use when injected into the grid and then accounted for when used elsewhere in the system. Green energy subsidies can then be claimed when the biomethane gas is used in conventional gas fired systems.

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