Biofuels and Bioenergy

Biogas & Biomethane

Biogas and biomethane are two renewable energy sources derived from organic materials through anaerobic digestion and upgrading processes. These biofuels offer an environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels, contributing to energy security, waste management, and greenhouse gas (GHG) reduction. Biogas is a mixture of gases, primarily composed of methane (CH₄) (50-65%) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) (35-50%), along with trace gases like hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and nitrogen.It is produced through anaerobic digestion (AD), where microorganisms break down organic matter such as agricultural residues, food waste, sewage sludge, and animal manure in oxygen-free conditions.Biogas can be used directly for cooking, heating, and electricity generation in combined heat and power (CHP) plants. Biomethane, also called renewable natural gas (RNG), is a purified form of biogas where CO₂, H₂S, and other impurities are removed, leaving almost pure methane (≥ 95%).It has the same chemical composition as natural gas, making it compatible with existing gas infrastructure for transportation, heating, and power generation.