CO2 microalgae from biogas plants
CO2 microalgae from biogas plants A project of the BETA Center of the UVic-UCC seeks how to valorize carbon dioxide and use the result for animal feed Originally published on July, 15 2024. That biogas plants must contribute positively to the management of the surplus of livestock manure or waste from the agri-food industry and sewage sludge is no longer disputed by anyone in the scientific field. Gradually, progress was also made in its implementation. However, once the biomethane has been extracted from the digestate, the residue still exists and within the framework of the European research project SEMPRE-BIO, the BETA Technological Center of the UVic-UCC is studying CO2 outputs. One of these outlets is to use it in the cultivation of microalgae. And this is what Georgina del Puerto, a PhD student from Roda de Berà, graduated in Biotechnology at the UdG and who has also done a master’s degree in Applied Microbiology at the UAB, is working on. “We are researching ways to valorize CO2” and one option is microalgae as an alternative source of protein, explains Del Puerto. That is why in the last few weeks they have installed a photobioreactor for their cultivation outside the BETA Center facilities in Can Baumann. They work with CO2and other nutrients from the digestate coming out of the biogas plants. The project is in the research phase. The aim is to demonstrate that the resulting microalgae can be used for animal feed. ”What we want is to generate the scientific and technical evidence to break down the legal barrier” that now prevents making food products from by-products such as digestate, according to Lídia Paredes, researcher in Environmental Technologies at CT BETA. Diary: El 9 Nou Author: Isaac Moreno Link: https://el9nou.cat/osona-ripolles/actualitat/microalgues-co2-plantes-biogas/ Date: October, 2024 This project has received funding from the European Union’s HORIZON-CL5-2021-D3-03-16 program under grant agreement No 101084297. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. Follow us Facebook Twitter Linkedin Contact us info@sempre-bio.com Cookies Policy Privacy policy ©2023 Semprebio | All Rights Reserved | Powered by Scienseed
Innovations and Technologies for Transforming Waste
Exploring sustainable fuel alternatives for transportation SEMPRE-BIO’s Advances in Sustainable Biogas Production Introduction Waste accounts for 26% of human-made methane emissions worldwide [1]. But what exactly is waste and how is it classified? Waste is defined as unwanted or unusable materials, any substance discarded after primary use, or something that is worthless, defective and of no use. One way to classify it is based on how it is managed: controlled waste, which is collected and then either recycled or disposed of in a controlled facility, or uncontrolled waste, which is either not collected and thus dumped or burned in the open by the waste generator or collected and then dumped or burned at its destination. What is being done with the waste right now? As can be seen in the following chart detailing the global municipal solid waste destinations in 2020, 62% of the global municipal solid waste (MSW) is controlled. [2] According to the same document, the degree to which MSW is managed in a controlled manner varies significantly across regions. The lowest levels of MSW management are in Sub-Saharan Africa and Central and South Asia, whereas in North America and Western Europe, almost all this waste is managed in controlled destinations. Other differences include the fact that North America relies predominantly on sanitary landfill disposal, while in Western Europe, recycling rates are higher, and waste-to-energy is the dominant method of MSW disposal. In this blog, we will focus on the concept of Waste-to-Energy (WtE), which involves the production of energy in the form of electricity, heat or fuel. How do we get energy from waste? There are various methods for obtaining energy from waste, but it is important to recognize that not all of these options are equally sustainable. Considering that municipal solid waste generation is predicted to grow from 2.3 billion tonnes in 2023 to 3.8 billion tonnes by 2050, it is vital that if we want to control the emissions we produce, we must start managing the waste we produce in a more sustainable manner. As cited in the latest United Nations report, the world must move beyond the waste area and turn rubbish into a resource. [3] Some of the technologies currently being used to convert waste into energy are: Incineration: This entails the direct burning of solid waste at temperatures between 750 and 1,100°C. It requires the presence of oxygen and produces steam for electricity or heat generation. Gasification: This process involves the partial oxidation of waste between 800 and 1200°C, facilitated by a controlled amount of oxygen. This allows for partial combustion, breaking down waste into simple molecules and producing synthetic gas for further combustion or conversion to chemical feedstock. Pyrolysis: This involves the thermal degradation of waste between 300 and 1300°C in the absence of oxygen, producing liquid fuel for further combustion or conversion to chemical feedstock. Anaerobic digestion: This processes readily degradable organic wastes using microorganisms in the absence of oxygen. The digestion process produces biogas and digestate. Biogas can be used as fuel for power generation, while digestate can be composted for use as a soil conditioner or dewatered and used as a low calorific value refuse-derived fuel. But, why is this important? As we have mentioned, the issue of waste management has significant repercussions and will have even more in the future. Over two billion metric tons of unsustainable, human-generated waste are thrown away globally every year, entering our environment and polluting every ecosystem around the world [4]. Human health is also being deeply impacted by the lack of environmental accountability and awareness about waste management. Improper waste management generates a wide range of airborne pollutants, including unintentional persistent organic pollutants and other chemicals of concern for public health (Pathak et al., 2023). [5] Based on the previous projections, it is shown that a circular economy model, where waste generation and economic growth are decoupled by adopting waste avoidance, sustainable business practices and comprehensive waste management, could in fact lead to a net gain of EUR 9740 million per year. [6] How does it relate to SEMPRE-BIO? SEMPRE-BIO takes the biological route (as opposed to chemical catalysts) to convert waste into biogas through a process called methanation. This process involves the conversion of carbon-based materials, present in waste, into methane. The project works on two main areas: 1) retrofitting of vintage AD plants, and 2) developing new methanation processes. These processes include: methanation of CO2 with H2, and methanation of CO in syngas without H2. Through this work, SEMPRE-BIO advances in the understanding of bioreactors and how to optimise them for efficient waste-to-biogas conversion. Case Study 1 takes place at the El Prat de Llobregat wastewater treatment plant in Barcelona, Spain. Its primary focus is upgrading biogas to high-quality biomethane while reducing costs using the sludge produced at the plant as feedstock. This refined biomethane is then utilized in two buses operating in the metropolitan area of Barcelona. In Case Study 2, SEMPRE-BIO tackles a key element in waste-to-energy, the transformation of non-fermentable waste into biogas through pyro-gasification, as opposed to the usual approach which is the use of fermentable biomass. This Case, taking place in Bourges (France), will demonstrate pyro-gasification of non-fermentable waste such as woody biomass from Bourges, in a pyrolyzer without any air intake producing a syngas without Nitrogen where Carbon and Hydrogen can then be converted into biogas. This biogas will be injected into the grid. In the Case Study 3, taking place in Adinkerke (Belgium), liquified biomethane will be produced by cryogenic separation of biogas from a dairy farm anaerobic digestors. Manure from a 1,500-cow dairy farm will be used as feedstock for producing biogas for local storage and a pure CO₂ stream with food-grade quality. This remaining CO2 will be liquified and converted into polymers and bioplastics. SEMPRE-BIO aims to drive innovations across all stages of the value chain to produce cheaper and more sustainable biomethane. This includes the use of novel types of feedstocks, breakthrough biomethane production technologies,
Biomethane technologies on a smaller scale
Innovative biomethane technologies on a smaller scale: a feasible case Biogas-E Case Study 3 Interview Originally published on June 25, 2024. The Net-Zero Industry Act (NZIA) supports innovation through regulatory sandboxes that allow net-zero technologies to be tested in a controlled environment before being marketed. This instrument improves the learning process in terms of regulations and possible upscaling, and fits seamlessly with the SEMPRE-BIO case studies that investigate sustainable innovative biomethane technologies. One of these case studies is located on the dairy farm De Zwanebloem in Adinkerke and aims to transform organic waste into bio-LNG and liquid CO2 on a smaller scale. De Zwanebloem’s main role is the biogas supply. Cryo Inox is responsible for the implementation and operation of the cryogenic installation. Ghent University coordinates the Flemish demo site and is thus in charge of general management and monitoring. They are in close contact with Innolab and Biogas-E. Ghent University is also involved in the valorization of by-products, such as digestate and CO2. Biogas-E interviewed Wannes Masscheleyn, managing director of De Zwanebloem and Çağrı Akyol, postdoctoral project manager and researcher at Ghent University. Hello Wannes, can you tell us more about your farm in Adinkerke? Wannes: De Zwanebloem is a family business in dairy farming. We currently milk 900 cows. In addition to milk, the cows also produce about 35,000 tonnes of manure per year. Until recently, manure was applied to our own and neighboring fields. We have two anaerobic digesters, one mesophilic and one thermophilic, in which we can process 25,000 tonnes of manure and 5,000 tonnes of co-substrates (e.g. Corn Cob Mix) annually. These digesters are now one month operational. A CHP with a capacity of 435 kWe valorizes the produced biogas into green electricity and heat that we can use ourselves. Within the SEMPRE-BIO project, the biogas will temporarily be used for the production of bio-LNG and liquid CO2 via cryogenic separation. Why did you choose for anaerobic digestion? Wannes: We are obliged to process 15,000 tonnes of manure every year. When we heard that digestate resulting from thermophilic digestion may be transported to France, this seemed like a good opportunity given our location near the border. Moreover, through anaerobic digestion we can reduce our electricity costs and obtain certificates, which is economically more beneficial than sending manure to biological processing. What is innovative about the technology being researched within SEMPRE-BIO? Çağrı: On the one hand, cryogenic separation is not that common for biogas upgrading. On the other hand, biogas upgrading mainly takes place on a larger scale in other countries. Therefore, the reduction in scale of this technology is innovative. What were/are the bottlenecks when installing the digesters and the upgrading installation? Wannes: The biggest challenge is obtaining the permit, mainly because of the nitrogen problem in Flanders. The safety aspects linked to bio-LNG production may also cause some challenges. The permit application for the biomethane upgrading facility is currently being finalized. The application for digestate transport to France is ongoing. “The biggest challenge is obtaining the permit, mainly because of the nitrogen problem in Flanders.” Was this in line with your expectations and can we learn something from this for the future? Wannes: Before the start of the project, we already had discussions with the delegation in Bruges. They were quite positive as the number of cattle remains unchanged in the permit and therefore there is no effect on the company’s general nitrogen emissions. At first, it seemed that a notification would be sufficient. Ultimately however, a permit application turned out to be necessary. More frequent use of such or similar technologies could simplify the permitting process, although there are of course many company-specific factors to take into account. Furthermore, the legislation applicable in the future plays a major role. Allowing everything to take its course may result in a natural decline in livestock numbers, but it must be realized that this will no longer result in an influx of new farmers and could possibly lead to shortages of our basic products in the near future. Can NZIA provide a boost? Wannes: It is positive that European legislation exists to simplify the application of innovative technologies. However, practice shows that translation of European legislations to Member State level is often difficult and that there is too little standardization. In fact, border policy in general is a bottleneck that needs to be addressed first. Border policy between Flanders and Wallonia is already quite a challenge. Çağrı: We are often still very dependent on countries outside Europe. Much of the renewable energy equipment, also for biogas and biomethane production, is imported from China. This can have several disadvantages, including production problems, quality control issues, or unexpected costs. The positive thing is that local and regional production is increasingly stimulated, partly by the NZIA. “We are often still very dependent on countries outside Europe.” What about the future of innovative biogas and biomethane production technologies? Çağrı: Interest in biogas, biomethane and associated technologies is growing. Biogas and biomethane are very versatile and can be used in a flexible way. One of the main reasons for the increasing interest is the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, which clearly showed how dependent Europe is on Russian natural gas. If this trend continues, the biomethane target set by the EU in the REPowerEU plan certainly seems feasible, provided that the challenges linked to the application of digestate (products) are also addressed. Wannes: Our milk collection trucks currently run on LNG. In an ideal circular scenario, bio-LNG could be used in these trucks and also in our tractors. The application of bio-LNG in heavy transport is currently still very rare in Flanders. This makes it more difficult to take the (first) step. Are there any other innovations planned? Wannes: The next step is to find a way to remove the nitrogen from the air in the stables. There are many interesting innovations, but these are often not profitable on a smaller scale
Exploring sustainable fuel alternatives for transportation
Exploring sustainable fuel alternatives for transportation Understanding the Shift from Fossil Fuels to Renewable Energy Sources Introduction Fossil fuels are one of the main pollutants on the planet. The CO2 emissions released by them are one of the main contributors to climate change. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), in 2018, approximately 89% of global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions originated from fossil fuels and industry. [1] Fossil fuels are formed from the decomposition of carbon-based organisms that lived millions of years ago, resulting in the creation of carbon-rich deposits. These deposits are then extracted and burned to produce energy. Crude oil or petroleum is a liquid fossil fuel created mostly by hydrocarbons. It can be found in underground reservoirs and, once extracted, is transported to refineries and transformed into usable fuels like gasoline. Another fossil fuel is coal,twhich is a carbon-rich sedimentary rock that can be extracted via underground or surface mining. In terms of emissions, it is the most carbon intensive fuel. Fracked natural gas, also known as shale gas, is a fossil fuel primarily composed of methane. The impact of fossil fuels on our planet is far-reaching and severe. When fossil fuels emit CO2, the heat is trapped in the atmosphere, producing an increment on temperatures. They also provoke ocean acidification, extreme weather, sea level rise, air pollution that causes health risks, water pollution, plastic pollution, and oil spills that can harm wildlife. In addition, fossil fuels are finite resources with a limited lifespan. These factors call for a need for change. [2] Recognizing these challenges, efforts are underway to advance future energy technologies that prioritize energy efficiency, environmental sustainability, and economic viability. Even modest incremental enhancements to existing energy technologies can effectively address both the energy crisis and environmental challenges. As observed in the previous blog, the energy transition will be possible through a mix of renewable sources. One of these sources is alternative fuels, but what exactly are they? According to the European Commission, alternative fuels are those fuels or power sources which serve, at least partly, as a substitute for fossil oil sources in the transport sector. [3] Types of alternative fuels In general, alternative fuels encompass all the fuels used for transport, excluding gasoline and diesel. Some of these alternative fuels can be used in current petrol engines without requiring any modifications. Their advantages include cleaner burning, producing lower CO2 emissions, and if they come from a renewable biomass source, the dependency on petroleum decreases. [3] Let’s explore the six types of alternatives: electricity, hydrogen, biofuels, synthetic and paraffinic fuels, natural gas, liquified natural gas and liquified petroleum gas. Electricity can be generated from three main sources: fossil carbon, nuclear energy and renewable sources.Currently, 39% of the electricity consumed come from fossil fuels, 35% from renewable energy and 26 % from nuclear energy. This indicates that electricity generation is reducing the consumption of fossil fuel by 61%. The main source of renewable energy is wind turbines. [4] Hydrogen serves as an alternative for transportation and can be categorized into different types. Green Hydrogen is the most sustainable, often produced through electrolysis, where water is split into oxygen and hydrogen using renewable energy sources. Blue Hydrogen falls between sustainable and non-sustainable production, generated by reforming natural gas (a fossil fuel) but incorporating carbon capture and storage to mitigate its environmental impact. Brown Hydrogen, derived directly from fossil fuels without carbon capture processes, is not sustainable. [5] Ammonia, a gas at room temperature and pressure, can be stored as a liquid at low temperatures. It is used in the maritime sector to replace some heavy fuels, offering safer storage than hydrogen and emitting less carbon than liquefied petroleum gas or compressed natural gas. [5] Liquified petroleum gas is a low-carbon alternative, emitting 35% less CO2 than coal and 12% less than oil. It increases resource efficiency in transport. Currently derived from crude oils and natural gas, it is expected to also come from biomass in the future. [5] Biofuels like biodiesel, bioethanol and biomethanol are one of the most important types of alternative fuels, capable of reducing CO2 emissions if sustainably produced and avoiding indirect land use change. Biodegradable and sourced from vegetable oils, animal fats and recycled restaurant grease, biofuels are produced using evolving technologies and can be used directly or blended with traditional fossil fuels.6 In particular, as a substitute of natural gas in several applications such as heating, electricity generation, and as a fuel for vehicles. Not only does it help reducing CO2 emissions but it also fosters a circular economy by producing gas from different kinds of waste. How does it relate to SEMPRE-BIO? SEMPRE-BIO is set to enhance biomethane production by leveraging cutting-edge technologies. Our mission is to bridge the gap from models to reality within three European Biomethane Innovation Ecosystems (EBIE). These ecosystems incorporate five main innovative technologies, each optimized for different feedstocks: Wastewater (CS1): We use electrolysis and biomethanation to convert wastewater into valuable biomethane. Green waste (CS2): Our innovative approach combines pyrolysis and methanation to efficiently transform green waste into sustainable biomethane. Manure organic waste (CS3): By utilizing cryo separation, we capture manure organic waste and create a renewable source for biomethane production. These sources will be utilised to produce biomethane for public transportation, grid injection and local storage as bio-LNG. SEMPRE-BIO’s ambitious goals align with the Horizon Europe call, aiming for four specific outcomes for a cleaner, more sustainable and secure energy supply, aiming for increased cost-effectiveness, diversified technology, market uptake and industrial-scale demonstrations. Our discussion on alternative fuels underscores the crucial role of innovations like those implemented in the SEMPRE-BIO project in mitigating the environmental impact of traditional energy sources. Transitioning to alternative fuels not only addresses immediate environmental concerns but also enhances our long-term energy security. As these technologies develop and scale, their integration into our energy infrastructure is imperative for an effective energy shift. References: [1] https://www.clientearth.org/latest/news/fossil-fuels-and-climate-change-the-facts/ [2] https://www.eesi.org/files/FactSheet_Fossil_Fuel_Externalities_2021.pdf [3] https://alternative-fuels-observatory.ec.europa.eu/general-information/alternative-fuels [4] https://alternative-fuels-observatory.ec.europa.eu/general-information/alternative-fuels [5] https://stargatehydrogen.com/blog/types-of-hydrogen/ Author: Oria Pardo Editorial: Lucía Salinas Date: July, 2024
Biomethane: A Sustainable Solution for Transportation
Biomethane: A Sustainable Solution for Transportation Exploring the Role of Biomethane in Reducing Fossil Fuel Dependency Introduction Think of when you step onto a city bus and notice that small sign: “Powered by Clean Energy.” You sit back, feeling a surge of satisfaction, knowing that you are part of a progressive shift towards reducing the urban carbon footprint. One way of powering these buses with green energy is biomethane, a clean and efficient fuel derived from organic waste. This renewable energy source offers numerous benefits. In this article, we’ll delve into how biomethane is making a tangible impact on public transportation and why each trip you take fortifies our economic and environmental resilience. As mentioned in the previous post ‘Challenges on Energy Transition’, the EU has stepped up its efforts to produce energy from renewable sources, thus reducing its dependence on fossil fuel and its reliance on imports from other countries. The EU’s ambitious goal of producing and injecting 35 billion cubic metres (bcm) of biomethane into the natural gas system by 2030 is a clear demonstration of this commitment, with transportation emerging as a key application for this biomethane as a substitute for traditional fossil fuels. Despite these efforts, in 2021, the European Union (EU) experienced a 15.7% increase in the consumption of solid fossil fuels compared to 2020. Although their consumption did not fully return to 2019 levels [1], fossil fuels remain a significant component of the EU’s energy mix. In 2021, they constituted 70% of the gross available energy in the EU [2]. The combustion of these fuels releases pollutants such as sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen oxides (NOX) and particulate matter, which are harmful to human health, cause respiratory diseases and contribute to smog [3]. Additionally, their combustion emits greenhouse gases such as CO2, CH4 and N2O, further contributing to climate change. This scenario underscores the urgent need for cleaner, sustainable alternatives. We cannot discuss the use of biomethane as a transport fuel without first highlighting the need for substantial investment in public transportation. This sector is the most obvious area where we can apply the “energy efficiency first” principle, which prioritizes the efficient use of energy over the incorporation of new energy sources [4]. The transport sector shows a keen interest in biomethane to meet its biofuel quotas, and the European Union has a key technological strategy, Action 8 of the SET Plan [5], which specifically focuses on advancing the development and deployment of renewable energy technologies. Benefits of using biomethane The economy: Biomethane can be used as a substitute for imported liquefied natural gas (LNG) because it has a similar energy value to natural gas. Additionally, using biomethane produced in Europe is cheaper than transporting natural gas from outside Europe, especially LNG shipped across oceans. In 2023, Europe imported over 150 million tons of LNG incurring a cost of over €55 billion [6]. According to EU targets for 2050, 30 to 40% of this LNG will be replaced with biomethane, [7] saving over a billion euros annually. SEMPRE-BIO is developing a process that will meet 1% of Europe’s gas demand by 2050, saving around 9.3 million euros in transportation costs each year. The environment: Biomethane is a powerful ally in the fight against climate change. By harnessing anaerobic digestion, methane emissions from manure and similar materials, which are up to 23 times more harmful than CO2 [8], are captured. Without this technology, methane would be released into the atmosphere during the decomposition of manure and waste such as sewage sludge, municipal waste, agro-industrial effluents or agricultural residues. Therefore, biomethane has a triple beneficial effect: it is a low-carbon gas, as it involves short-cycle CO2; it replaces fossil fuels, thus preventing the addition of fossil-origin CO2 to the atmosphere; and, as previously mentioned, it captures biogas that would otherwise be emitted into the atmosphere and uses it as fuel. The community: Renewable gases in the EU have the potential to create 2.4 million jobs by 2050, with 850,000 being direct jobs [9]. Currently, the biogas sector provides over 50,000 stable jobs in Europe, with many plants situated in rural areas, contributing to the economy of disadvantaged regions and creating high-skilled jobs. Biogas plants are also increasingly prevalent in urban areas, aiding municipalities in waste management while providing environmental and economic benefits. Substituting fossil fuels with cost-effective biomethane enhances access to affordable, clean, carbon-neutral energy for EU citizens. Its use in transportation reduces GHG emissions, improves public health, mitigates climate change, and ensures food security and economic sustainability. Energy security: Considering dwindling fossil fuel reserves and deepening energy dependence, biomethane offers a domestic, sustainable, and renewable gas source that can help alleviate the European Union’s energy security concerns. In 2021, the EU imported 84% [10] of its gas consumption, much of which came from politically unstable regions, posing risks to energy security. Specific Benefits of Using Biomethane for Land Transport: In countries like Spain and Portugal, which serve as major points of connection in Europe and account for approximately 30% of emissions from transportation, the decarbonization of heavy-duty transport is of particular importance. In this context, bio-LNG, in the form of biomethane, emerges as the most expedient option for achieving the decarbonization targets outlined in the European Commission’s Renewable Energy Directive [11]. Biomethane offers several technical advantages, as its compatibility with existing vehicle infrastructure designed for compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied natural gas, coupled with its mature anaerobic digestion technology, renders it a reliable and versatile choice. Moreover, the EU’s commitment to integrating natural gas networks among member states will facilitate the storage and distribution of biomethane, thus unlocking its commercial potential. Given these advantages and more, the biomethane sector warrants increased attention and support, with its share in transportation expected to experience rapid growth in the years ahead. Conclusions Certain recent studies, such as “The potential role of biomethane for the decarbonization of transport: An analysis of 2030 scenarios in Italy – ScienceDirect” [12], have examined the specific characteristics of different regions. All these
SEMPRE-BIO’s 3rd General Assembly
SEMPRE-BIO’s 3rd General Assembly PRESS RELEASE Madrid, Spain, May 23rd, 2024 Project’s progress mirrors Europe’s push for sustainable energy The SEMPRE-BIO project team, supported by the European Union’s Horizon Europe Program, held their third General Assembly on May 23rd, 2024. This biannual gathering of consortium members, held online this year, highlighted significant advancements in biomethane production technologies that enhance Europe’s energy resilience and support the circular economy. Led by CETAQUA, Water Technology Centre, SEMPRE-BIO unites 16 key organizations from six European countries. These include industry leaders, research centers, and academic institutions dedicated to reducing the costs and extending the potential of biomethane production through innovative waste valorization. Meeting overview The assembly offered a detailed review of the project’s progress, focusing on strategic plans for future activities. Discussions were robust, with an emphasis on aligning project timelines and enhancing collaboration across the consortium. The involvement of SEMPRE-BIO’s Expert External Advisory Board (EEAB) members added an additional layer of oversight and expertise, contributing to the project’s overall success. Case Studies, Practical Impact Across Europe The project illustrated its broad impact across Europe through its three case studies in Belgium, France, and Spain. Each location provides unique insights into local challenges and how SEMPRE-BIO’s solutions are tailored to meet diverse European needs. The assembly assessed the testing of five innovative technologies across three locations, aimed at diversifying the conversion technology base for biomethane production. Notably: Case Study 1: The pilot plant in Baix Llobregat is making remarkable progress. The site is being prepared for the installation of crucial components, with the development of the bioreactor and PEMEL advancing in tandem. Efforts are focused on enhancing productivity and yield for biogas upgrading, balanced with economic viability through a meticulous cost-value analysis. The reactor and Piping and Instrumentation Diagram (P&ID) are developed, with the reactor expected to be operational early next year. Construction of the PEMEL, a technology used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, is progressing and slated for completion by year-end, followed by a series of performance tests. Case Study 2: In Bourges, the project has secured site agreements, established the ground plane, and arranged for a woody waste supplier. The plant design and 3D model are finalized, and equipment procurement is underway. A smaller pyrolysis kiln has been installed for training and optimization, with the main kiln assembly and operations starting in August. The biomethanation tank is expected to be operational by early 2025, with smooth progress on other project aspects. Case Study 3: The demonstration plant in Adinkerke has made significant advancements, featuring two operational anaerobic digesters producing over 5,000 m³/year of biogas from manure. Comprehensive testing has been conducted, and the final Process Flow Diagram (PFD) is established, guiding the system’s installation and operation. The plant is set for completion by year-end, with operations to begin in early 2025, including the production of food-grade CO₂ for further applications. Work Packages Update Progress across various work packages was thoroughly evaluated: Advanced CO2 Valorization Technologies (WP4) detailed the promising lab experiments for producing biochemicals and biopolymers from biomethane streams, using synthetic mediums and digestate from gas plants. Further optimization is needed to optimize the systems and maximize production. A 50L pilot hybrid fermenter with sensors was implemented in April, and future steps include testing various digestates. Research on microalgae as a sustainable protein source for animal feed is also progressing. Economic Assessment and Market Strategy (WP5) addressed the refinement of biomethane guidelines and policy recommendations, highlighting new promotion policies and market gap analyses. Process simulations for all case studies are progressing, with models updated as new data becomes available. Communication, Dissemination, and Exploitation (WP6) emphasized sustained efforts in communication and public engagement highlighting a strong social media presence and consistent content publication. Upcoming activities include a webinar in autumn and a video on case studies by mid-2025. Environmental Impact and Future Directions SEMPRE-BIO’s aims to significantly reduce CO2 emissions by up to 213 million tons annually by 2050. This aligns with the European Green Deal’s goals to cut Europe’s reliance on imported natural gas and liquefied natural gas, promoting the use of biomethane as a cleaner substitute for fossil fuels in various sectors, including transportation and heavy industry. Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments The third General Assembly has demonstrated SEMPRE-BIO project’s significant strides towards enhancing biomethane production technologies. The consortium’s efforts are in step with Europe’s overarching goal to become the first climate-neutral continent. The project extends sincere thanks to all consortium members and partners for their invaluable contributions and steadfast dedication. Their collaborative efforts are instrumental in driving the success of SEMPRE-BIO. Looking forward, the project is determined to maintain its momentum with further trials and initiatives aimed at broadening the adoption of these technologies across Europe. For more information about SEMPRE-BIO visit our Project Page Contact: Laia Menciainfo@sempre-bio.com+34 930 181 691 Barcelona, 31st of May 2024 This project has received funding from the European Union’s HORIZON-CL5-2021-D3-03-16 program under grant agreement No 101084297. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. Follow us Facebook Twitter Linkedin Contact us info@sempre-bio.com Cookies Policy Privacy policy ©2023 Semprebio | All Rights Reserved | Powered by Scienseed
Biomethane challenges for the energy transition
Challenges on Energy Transition Biomethane’s Growing Role and Emerging Barriers Introduction In our quest for sustainable energy solutions, a pivotal challenge remains: reducing harmful emissions from the transport sector and electricity generation. As we have discussed in previous blogs, the European energy transition is crucial, and finding viable alternatives to fossil fuels is key. Enter biomethane, a potential solution that’s gaining traction. Its versatility extends across various applications, from home heating to vehicle propulsion and even electricity generation. Biogas and biomethane, in particular, are emerging as promising alternatives to traditional fossil fuels. Nevertheless, it’s essential to emphasize that the energy transition will be possible through a diverse mix of renewable sources, including hydro, biomass, solar, and wind power. Thus, while striving for ambitious targets, it’s crucial to maintain flexibility and embrace a holistic approach to achieving a sustainable energy future. In 2021, the EU made significant strides, producing 3.5 billion cubic meters (bcm) of biomethane and 14.9 bcm of biogas. A European Parliament amendment to the proposed EU Gas Regulation (RePowerEU) lays down that Member States shall ensure that by 2030 at least 35 bcm of biomethane is produced and injected into the natural gas system. This initiative is crucial for safeguarding the security of the EU’s gas supply, decreasing dependence on fossil fuel gas imports and ensuring EU’s energy transition [1]. In the current geopolitical context, strengthening internal energy resilience serves as a key strategy for the EU. However, despite these ambitious goals, it seems achieving the targeted production of 35 bcm of biomethane (more detailed info in European Biomethane Potential and Future Projections) may be unfeasible due to a wide range of barriers. Let’s delve deeper into these barriers. Challenges & Barriers Feedstock Availability and Sustainability: One of the major challenges lies in the insufficient availability of sustainable feedstock to meet the 35 bcm biomethane target in EU. In the SEMPRE-BIO project, we delve into the challenges associated with the feedstocks of sewage sludge (used in CS1), green waste (CS2) and manure (CS3). Let’s take a look at sewage sludge first. In this case, anaerobic digestion or AD (the process by which micro-organisms break down biodegradable material in the absence of oxygen) is the best option for production of biomethane from this feedstock. However, digestate from this feedstock needs to be handled with care because of heavy metal concentrations and antibiotic resistance genes [2], as well as emerging pollutants such as microplastics. For green waste, the main issue is due to logistics. The absence of specialized companies in forest cleaning and pruning management, tasked with transporting green waste, which is due to its nature de-centralized and sparse, to conversion technology facilities, presents a significant challenge. This scarcity can exacerbate the difficulty in accessing green pruning for processes like anaerobic digestion or pyrolysis. Without established companies for these roles, logistical hurdles may arise, impeding efficient collection and transportation of waste from generation sites to processing plants. Therefore, a holistic approach is necessary to tackle the technical challenges of green pruning management and the logistical issues surrounding its collection and transportation. And lastly, when considering manure volumes, it’s important to take into account advice from the Chief Scientific Advisers to the European Commission. They’ve emphasized that reducing excessive meat consumption is one of the most effective ways to combat greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) [2]. If our priority is addressing climate change, we can’t continue relying on more than half of current manure volumes. However, SEMPRE-BIO goal is to effectively manage the existing production of manure without intensifying agricultural activity. Despite RePowerEU stating that 32% of the 35 bcm by 2030 will be sourced from manure [2], this percentage is overly ambitious and not feasible in reality without its subsequent lock-in effect. It is also key to keep in mind that these facilities are usually in rural areas without access to the natural gas grid for injection of biomethane, and their scale is sometimes not large enough to make biomethane production economically feasible. SEMPRE-BIO aims to tackle that by producing bio-LNG (liquified biomethane), which is much more economically feasible to transport over long distances and aims to scale down liquefaction technology while avoiding economic penalties. Policy and Regulatory Hurdles: Developing and implementing regulations that support biomethane production can be complex. Regulatory frameworks need to address issues such as feedstock sourcing, grid injection requirements, quality standards, financial incentives and digestates deposition policies which can be radically different depending on the feedstock. In addition, integrating biomethane into existing energy markets requires overcoming barriers related to pricing mechanisms, market access, and competition with conventional fossil fuels. Moreover, biomethane production involves multiple sectors, including agriculture, waste management, energy, and transport. Coordinating policies across these sectors to support biomethane development can be difficult due to differing priorities and interests. Technological Complexities, Infrastructure Limitations and Investment: Technological complexities represent other major barrier, encompassing challenges related to efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Current biomethane production methods require refinement to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, making them more competitive with fossil-fuel energy sources. Furthermore, it is imperative to notice that for the injection of biomethane into the grid to occur, the plant must be situated near the grid infrastructure. If this is not the case, new distribution network infrastructure must be built to facilitate the transport of biomethane to the grid connection point. Despite the mentioned above, biomethane remains a potential option to help Europe’s energy transition and for reducing GHG emissions. Nonetheless, there is still a notable lack of investment and support in this sector. In several countries, a clear comparison can be made between the countries in which biomethane is booming, such as France, and those that have equal potential but biomethane is anecdotic, such as Spain: lack of economy subsidies and regulation (in several areas, from injection to digestate management). Additionally, the financial viability of biomethane projects often faces challenges due to high initial investment costs, uncertain regulatory frameworks, and limited incentives for renewable energy sources. Without sufficient investment and supportive policies, many biomethane initiatives struggle
Navigating Tomorrow’s Energy Landscape: Insights from the Biomethane Webinar
Navigating Tomorrow’s Energy Landscape: Insights from the Biomethane Webinar Webinar Overview On November 15th, the webinar ‘Challenges and Opportunities in the Production and Use of Biomethane,‘ brought together industry leaders, experts, and renewable energy enthusiasts, both in-person and virtually. The event, organized by Cetaqua – Water Technology Centre, was a significant meeting point for discussing the latest in biomethane production and usage. Showcasing Innovation: SEMPRE-BIO Project and beyond Central to the discussions was the SEMPRE-BIO project, delivering a comprehensive presentation on the project’s cutting-edge technologies and objectives. Skillfully presented by our project coordinator, Alejandra Córdova (CETAQUA), she started by giving an overall view of the project – partners, timing, budget – to then delve into SEMPRE-BIO’s Case Studies and the European Biomethane Innovation Ecosystem (EBIEs). These EBIEs, each stemming from our three distinct Case Studies (see our blogs for more information), represent the different configurations of biomethane production throughout Europe so that we can test 5 different innovation technologies. Alejandra intricately illustrated SEMPRE-BIO’s vision to produce biomethane from wastewater, green residues, and manure, with each feedstock meticulously examined in a separate Case Study. She finalized her presentation with a review of the project structure, achieved milestones and expected results and outcomes. In tandem with SEMPRE-BIO, other notable projects were presented, including: BIOMETHAVERSE (ISINNOVA), our sibling initiative The Baix Llobregat upgrading project (Aigües de Barcelona) LIFE-Nimbus (Cetaqua) La Galera (Biometagás La Galera – AGF Ingeniería de Procesos) ELENA/VILA-SANA (Naturgy) The session opened with an overview about the energy landscape in Europe and Spain, addressing our reliance on energy imports and the role of biomethane as another source of renewable energy to contribute to decarbonization. It highlighted what biomethane is, how it is produced, how it differs from natural gas, advantages, and pricing, among other issues. It also emphasized the huge potential for countries like Spain and other Mediterranean countries to produce biomethane from agricultural waste. The session then transitioned into an exploration of advancements in biomethane technology, emphasizing the pivotal role of innovation in surmounting production challenges. A deep dive into the complexities, challenges, and opportunities inherent in biomethane production and utilization provided invaluable insights. These presentations were divided into two big blocks, the first one with projects still in an R&D stage, like BIOMETHAVERSE, The Baix Llobregat upgrading project or LIFE-Nimbus, and a second block on more commercially advanced projects, such as LA GALERA and ELENA/VILA-SANA. The webinar served as a nexus for collaboration, bringing together industry professionals, researchers, and stakeholders interested in the future of biomethane as well as anyone interested in renewable green energies and energy transition. The interactive Questions & Answers sessions and discussions following the projects presentations facilitated engaging exchanges between the speakers, the moderator, and the audience, enhancing the learning experience. Experts among the audience included Naturgy, Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB), Institut Català d´Energia, VEOLIA AGUA SA and BIOMETAGAS LA GALERA SL. Very interesting topics were discussed during the Q&A, ranging from the current infrastructure of the gas grid to use with biomethane, the decarbonization of the public transport network, main barriers for successful projects, real biomethane production potential versus estimated potential, or the involvement of different governmental offices among many other. Bridging Theories with Real-World Applications The event concluded with an insightful visit to the LIFE Nimbus biomethane generation plant at the Baix Llobregat WWTP. Situated 15 km from the webinar location, attendees experienced biomethane’s practical application firsthand: they were transported to the operational plant in buses powered by biomethane, generated from sewage sludge and power-to-gas technologies. Concluding Thoughts In conclusion, the ‘Challenges and Opportunities in the Production and Use of Biomethane‘ webinar, organized by Cetaqua, not only served as a platform for knowledge sharing but also highlighted SEMPRE-BIO’s pivotal role in advancing sustainable energy solutions. The webinar emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing challenges and capitalizing on emerging opportunities within the renewable energy landscape. Insights gained during this webinar point towards a future where biomethane plays a central role in shaping a more sustainable and eco-friendly future. For those interested in exploring the full webinar, the full recording is here. For our international audience, the webinar is available with English subtitles. Stay tuned for forthcoming updates and collaborative initiatives as the biomethane sector continues to evolve, propelled by the collective efforts of projects like SEMPRE-BIO and industry leaders committed to a cleaner and greener energy landscape. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F6yR6w8aXA0&t=5s Authors: Lucia SalinasEditorial: Laia Mencia Thanks to: Mario Canet (Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB); Laia Sarquella (Institut Català D´Energia); Noelia Guzmán Sacristán y Oriol Martínez Cabero (Naturgy); Daniele Molognoni (Leitat Technological Center); Fernando Selva (BIOMETAGAS LA GALERA SL), Joaquín Pérez Novo (VEOLIA AGUA SA); Mauri Poch Palou (Aigües de Barcelona); Marina Arnaldos Orts, Oriol Casal, Alejandra Córdova Valencia (#Cetaqua) for your presentations! Date: November, 2023 This project has received funding from the European Union’s HORIZON-CL5-2021-D3-03-16 program under grant agreement No 101084297. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. Follow us Facebook Twitter Linkedin Contact us info@sempre-bio.com Cookies Policy Privacy policy ©2023 Semprebio | All Rights Reserved | Powered by Scienseed
CS1 – El Baix Llobregat Wastewater Treatment Plant
Case Study 1 – El Baix Llobregat Wastewater Treatment Plant Decarbonizing Public Transportation Case Study 1 takes place at the El Prat de Llobregat Wastewater treatment plant in Barcelona, Spain, which is operated by our project partner, Aigües de Barcelona. This innovative project focuses on upgrading biogas quality to biomethane, aiming to reduce costs and raise the TRL from 4 to 7, while improving the biogas status in Spain. To accomplish this, CETAQUA will construct and operate a small-scale biomethanation reactor using a unique combination of technologies, bio-methanation and proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMEL). This process will convert biogas into high-quality biomethane, which will then be used to fuel two buses circulating through Barcelona’s metropolitan area. By partnering with Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB), we are actively contributing to the decarbonization of public transportation. Biogas contains about 35% of CO2 and 65% of CH4. Additionally, small amounts of other gases such as nitrogen (N2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), water vapor (H2O), and trace amounts of various volatile organic compounds (VOCs) may also be present. The upgrading technology consists in reacting the remaining CO2 with H2 to enrich the methane content to >95%. This reaction occurs inside a reactor with specialised microorganisms that consume the substrate and give CH4 as a product. The H2 needed comes from a novel proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMEL) designed by PROPULS with collaboration from SINTEF. Before biomethane can be used as fuel for public transportation, it must undergo a scrubbing process to remove impurities such as H2S, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and siloxanes in order to protect the equipment. Once the biomethane has been scrubbed and purified, it undergoes compression to create compressed natural gas (CNG), which is then ready to be used as fuel for public transportation vehicles. This ensures that the biomethane meets the required standards and is safe and efficient for use in the transportation sector. Because this technology aims to decarbonize the public transport by using biomethane, the H2 source needs to be green as well. For this reason, the energy used for H2 production comes only from renewable sources. These kinds of sources are very variable, often having peaks when the energy is not used and lost. Using these high production points of energy to produce H2 is a way to store this energy. Therefore, the biomethanation process needs to be robust in front of operation intermittency. DTU will contribute to the project by conducting various experiments involving different configurations, gas residence times, and microbial cultures. These experiments, combined with CETAQUA’s expertise in CO2 biomethanation, will inform the design of the reactor, including considerations such as volume, filling, and recirculation. Figure 1. CS1 process flow diagram The process starts with the pretreatment of the stream of biogas, which is already produced by the WWTP, in order to keep a low concentration of H2S, VOCs and siloxanes. Once the biogas is clean, it is fed into the reactor along with H2. The reactor will be operating at a thermophilic temperature and different pressure levels (3-12 bar), and key parameters will be monitored for the optimization of the methane productivity. The goal is to produce high-quality biomethane (>95%), which is then compressed and stored as compressed natural gas (CNG) for later use in refueling buses. Overall, the aim will be to achieve the highest priority objectives in the European biomethane market: to increase the profitability of conversion in biomethane production, to diversify conversion technologies, to contribute to the acceptance of biomethane technologies in the gas market, and to contribute to the semi-industrial scale demonstration of new conversion technologies. Next steps: Currently, the PEMEL is in its final design stages, with the stack having already begun construction. The biomethanation process is also deep into its design phase, already having a satisfactory PFD. Parallel to this, a techno-economic analysis is being conducted by SINTEF, which will shed light into CS1’s financial viability. Once the plant is full in operation, the buses will begin circulation. Following this, a study will be undertaken to evaluate the impact of biomethane utilisation on the motors, ensuring optimal performance while monitoring potential concerns such as H2S and siloxanes. Authors: David Checa, Alejandra CórdovaEditorial: Lucia Salinas Date: January, 2024 This project has received funding from the European Union’s HORIZON-CL5-2021-D3-03-16 program under grant agreement No 101084297. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. Follow us Facebook Twitter Linkedin Contact us info@sempre-bio.com Cookies Policy Privacy policy ©2023 Semprebio | All Rights Reserved | Powered by Scienseed
CS3 – Innovative Biogas Technologies
Case Study 3 – Innovative Biogas Technologies An insightful perspective to the transformation of organic waste into bio-LNG and CO₂ conversion into polymers. Figure 1. Diary farm facilities at De zwanebloem, De Panne, Belgium. The pilot aims to reduce carbon fossil fuels with the capture of CO₂. The Demo Plant will reuse CO₂, selling this within the food industry. Reusing CO₂ will be better for the environment, instead of buying carbon fossil fuels. CS3 embodies a European Biomethane Innovation Ecosystem (EBIE) facing challenges such as discontinued incentives and elevated maintenance expenses, which render it difficult for smaller biogas producers to maintain operations. The aim within CS3 is to pioneer and showcase inventive biogas upgrading technologies. These technologies facilitate the enhancement of existing biogas and biomethane facilities, particularly those operating at lower capacities (<100 Nm3/h of biogas), which are at risk of ceasing operations due to discontinued incentives or rising feedstock costs. Furthermore, CS3 aligns with the significant goal established by the DIRECTIVE (EU) 2018/2001 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 11 December 2018. This directive seeks to promote the adoption and utilization of renewable energy sources, including sunlight, wind, water, and other natural resources, with the aim of decreasing reliance on non-renewable energy sources and combating climate change. Its objective is to advocate for sustainability and usher in a greener, more sustainable energy system in Europe. The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the use of biofuels, bioliquids, and biomass fuels considered for the purposes shall be as follows: This entails a dual effort: on one hand, implementing technologies capable of capturing CO₂ with a quality high enough for it to be reused as a substitute for fossil CO₂. The expected uses of CO₂ involve industries such as food and beverage (hence the importance of CO₂ quality) or the production of Synthetic Gas through methanation processes. On the other hand, it is crucial to develop energy-efficient technologies so as not to affect the carbon intensity level. The demo plant currently under development for CS3 applies a Cryogenic Upgrading (or Cryoupgrading) process to the Biogas. This process is conducted in an integrated cryogenic unit, which enables the separation of CO₂ from the Biogas to obtain a pure CO₂ stream with food-grade quality. The resulting Biomethane, with a CO₂ concentration of less than 1%, is then cooled, liquefied, and polished. The biogas stream (>100Nm3/h) received at the inlet of the demo plant is processed and converted into two streams: one of liquid bio-methane and the second of liquid CO₂. Liquid CO₂ and liquid biomethane are valuable and highly versatile resources with a wide range of industrial and energy applications. As previously mentioned, liquid CO₂ is used in the food and beverage industry, as a coolant or freezing agent, and as a chemical reagent in industrial processes. In agriculture, it optimizes plant growth in greenhouses through the carbonation of irrigation water. On the other hand, liquid biomethane is a sustainable energy source with multiple practical applications. For example, it can be used as a fuel for vehicles, contributing to emissions reduction in the environment. Another significant application is for self-consumption. The produced biomethane can indeed become a fuel used for agricultural vehicles and tractors, thus opening up a scenario of circular economy. The CS3 takes place at a dairy farm (approx. 1500 cows) in West Flanders, Belgium, characterized by a local nutrient surplus due to agro-residues. Flanders is one of the Nitrate Vulnerable Zones in Europe so the application of manure/digestate is limited to 170 kg N/ ha. In frame of the CS3, the farmer will try and meet hygienization requirements of the By-product Regulation (EC) 1069/2009 (by means of post thermophilic anaerobic digestion) that would allow export across the border and application of Belgian digestate on a French arable land in need of such fertilisers. Some part of the digestate, together with liquid CO₂, will be used to grow microalgae as an alternative protein source for animal feed which can potentially reduce soybean imports. So far, the energy profile of the dairy farm has been calculated and lab-and pilot-scale anaerobic digestion experiments have been carried. Feedstock optimization was done via biomethane potential tests to determine the most suitable co-feedstock to cow manure which the farmer could supply if necessary. Pilot-scale anaerobic digesters were operated mimicking the farm-scale digester set-up to determine and solve any potential operational problems in advance. The digestate samples were collected and analyzed according to the parameters given in the Regulation (EU) 2019/1009 to assess its safe and efficient use as bio-based fertilizer. Currently, the construction of the biogas plant is already underway, outside the scope of SEMPRE-BIO but essential for generating the required biogas input to the demo plant. The demo plant is currently under construction at CRYOinox while testing is being conducted with a dedicated test bench. The start-up of the demo plant is expected in April 2024. Authors: Andrea Munaretto & Çağrı AkyolEditorial: María Francisca Paz y Miño Date: December, 2023 This project has received funding from the European Union’s HORIZON-CL5-2021-D3-03-16 program under grant agreement No 101084297. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Commission. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them. Follow us Facebook Twitter Linkedin Contact us info@sempre-bio.com Cookies Policy Privacy policy ©2023 Semprebio | All Rights Reserved | Powered by Scienseed