Knowledge

Benefits of Biomethane

Biomethane from organic feedstocks

Organic materials such as crop residues, manure and other biogenic feedstocks are available throughout the year. These materials are processed in biogas plants and subsequently upgraded to biomethane before being injected into the natural gas grid. Through the existing gas infrastructure, biomethane can be supplied to a wide range of applications across Europe.

Biomethane in regional value chains

The production and marketing of biomethane involve a broad range of stakeholders, including farmers, plant operators, engineering companies, technicians and service providers. Municipalities, utilities and businesses also use biomethane in a variety of applications, including heat supply, power generation and mobility solutions.

Biomethane offers a wide range of applications

By being injected into the gas grid and produced independently of weather conditions, biomethane can be supplied to a wide range of applications. Whether for heat and power generation, as a transport fuel or as a feedstock in the chemical industry, biomethane can be used across multiple sectors.

Biomethane can be transported and stored through existing infrastructure

Biomethane can be stored and transported through the existing gas grid. Thats why biomethane can be supplied independently of its production location and allocated to different applications across Europe. Unlike weather-dependent renewable energy sources, biomethane production is not directly linked to wind or solar conditions.

Biomethane in Germany and Europe

Germany is home to thousands of biogas plants, and biomethane production continues to be an important part of the renewable gas market. Biomethane is produced from domestic feedstocks and can be used in a variety of sectors, including heat supply, power generation, industry and mobility.

At the same time, Europe benefits from an extensive gas infrastructure that enables the transport and allocation of biomethane across different regions and applications. As regulatory requirements continue to evolve, biomethane remains a relevant option for companies and energy suppliers seeking renewable gas solutions.

Biomethane and greenhouse gas emissions

Depending on the feedstocks used, the production process and the application, biomethane can achieve different GHG emission values. When used as a transport fuel, certified biomethane may achieve substantial greenhouse gas reductions compared with conventional fuels. Modern biomethane production facilities can achieve low emission factors, depending on feedstock, production pathway and certification requirements.

Biomethane across different energy applications

Biomethane can be used for heat supply, power generation, industrial processes and as a transport fuel. Unlike weather-dependent renewable energy sources, biomethane can be stored and transported through existing gas infrastructure, enabling its use across a wide range of applications.

Biomethane and planning reliability

In Germany, the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) provides a regulatory framework for certain combined heat and power (CHP) applications using biomethane sourced through the gas grid. A key requirement is proof that a corresponding volume of biomethane has been injected into the gas grid.

An important element of this process is comprehensive documentation through a mass balancing system, which provides traceability for biomethane volumes and supports compliance with applicable regulatory requirements.