The Role of Biomethane in the Energy Transition: Pathways, Economics, and Future Prospects

Unofficial AI-generated summary based on the public title and abstract. Not an official translation.

🔬研究者:Provides a comprehensive cost and technology comparison of biomethane upgrading methods, useful for energy systems modeling.

🏢実務担当者:Offers cost benchmarks and infrastructure insights for companies considering biomethane as a decarbonization option.

🏛政策担当者:Highlights the need for supportive policies to scale biomethane, relevant for renewable gas targets and energy security.

Modern bioenergy, especially in the forms of biogas and biomethane, has become the most significant renewable energy source worldwide, accounting for 55% of renewable energy and over 6% of global energy consumption. Consistent with the Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario, bioenergy is anticipated to play an essential role in replacing fossil fuels by 2030. Biogas can be used in various ways, such as for local heating and in Combined Heat and Power (CHP) systems, while biomethane acts as a direct alternative to natural gas, supporting circular economy initiatives and promoting sustainable energy solutions. Our research centers on converting biogas to biomethane by eliminating impurities, mainly CO2, to enhance methane levels. The upgrading methods encompass several technologies, including water scrubbing, chemical scrubbing, physical scrubbing, pressure swing adsorption, and membrane separation. The adaptability of biomethane allows it to be utilized in the transportation sector as fuel, as a natural gas substitute in heating applications, and for off-site CHP units. The costs of producing biomethane vary between €25/MWh and €100/MWh, positioning it as a financially competitive option against fossil gas in Europe. This cost leads to a hydrogen production expense of €0.83 to €3.33 per kg, which is considerably lower than the cost of producing green hydrogen through electrolysis (€4/kg, with hopeful estimates ranging from €1-2/kg). Considering current market dynamics, biomethane is likely to remain more economically attractive than green hydrogen for the near future. The consistent growth in bioenergy usage, averaging an annual increase of 7% from 2010 to 2021, highlights its increasing importance in the energy transition. Unlike hydrogen, biomethane benefits from a pre-existing distribution network, facilitating its widespread implementation. A robust political environment is crucial to foster the expansion of the renewable gas sector. By incorporating biogas and biomethane into global energy frameworks, we can improve energy security, encourage sustainability, and hasten the move toward a net-zero emissions future.

• semanticscholar https://doi.org/10.2118/235177-msfirst seen 2026-08-14 05:25:51