Biogas, is a type of biofuel consisting mainly of Methane (CH4 – 55% to 60%) and Carbon Dioxide (CO2 – 30 to 35%), is widely acknowledged as a renewable source of energy. Over the years India has invested heavily in generating electricity from biogas plants with the number of operational plants over 5.1M. In particular, the state of Maharashtra with a large belt of large sugar and cotton farms has nearly 1 million plants
During the process of producing Biogas, the trapped methane, carbon dioxide along with trace amounts of water vapour is released.
For us, the released CO2 represents an untapped source of wealth and overlooked potential in enhancing the environmental performance of biogas
The CO2 Challenge in Current Biogas Production
To elevate the efficiency and energy content of biogas, few plants in India elevate the quality of biogas. This process involves the separation of CO2 from biogas, results in an increased concentration of methane, thereby enhancing the overall quality of the biogas by making it more energy dense
However, a significant aspect is often overlooked: the released CO2, primarily originating from biological sources, is typically allowed to disperse into the atmosphere as an acceptable practice
Biogas upgradation amp; Sale of Captured Carbon
During the process of biogas upgrading the captured CO2 could be a source of raw input for several diverse industries.
For Biogas plant owners this would representant a financial opportunity were where the captured CO2 would have industrial uses. Currently, the cost for CO2 in industrial applications is between Rs.6 to Rs.10 per kg
Power-to-Gas Technology – Creation Of CBG
Power-to-gas technology plays another crucial role in unlocking further economic value of CO2. By removing the captured CO2 from methane, it improves the efficiency of the biogas by making the Methane composition 90 to 95% from the earlier 60% to 65%. The more efficient Compressed Biogas (CBG) can be used as an energy source for a diverse set of industries including transportation
Minor Modifications for a Major Impact
The qualitative assessment conducted in this study suggests that only minor modifications in the biogas upgrading process are required to effectively capture CO2. This represents an exciting prospect for biogas actors, as they can get involved in carbon capture projects that enhance their circular business model and avoid carbon capture lock-in. By enhancing the environmental performance of biomethane, biogas producers can not only contribute to a sustainable energy future but also position themselves as leaders in green technology.
Collaboration for Success
Implementing CO2 capture in the biogas sector requires collaboration with various stakeholders. Integration with industries that have a current demand for CO2 and the large scale adoption of carbon capture technologies. By working together, it becomes possible to maximize the economic benefits of captured CO2, reduce carbon emissions and bolster sustainable energy production.
Hope you found this article informative, to know more about our carbon capture technology.
Please visit us at carboncaptures.com
Learn More | https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/unlocking-potential-economic-co2-biogas-upgrading-path-nitin-sarna-wfgnf/
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