By replacing 12% of current natural gas consumption with biomethane, Ireland can save 2.6m tonnes of CO2 per annum and create over 3,000 jobs by 2030.

This was one of the key messages from members of the Renewable Gas Forum of Ireland (RGFI) who presented their case for biomenthane to be included in Ireland’s energy mix to the Joint Committee on Climate Action earlier this week.

Donal Dennehy, director of Danone Ireland (RGFI member) acknowledged the Government's review into the potential of anaerobic digestion to supply biomethane (upgraded biogas) in their draft National Climate Action Plan (NCAP).

We can make an immediate switch to biomethane, which would deliver our environmental and climate benefit targets at lowest cost

However, he raised concerns that the figures used in the Marginal Abatement Cost Curve (MACC) analysis in the plan were incorrect which suggest that biomethane was not cost effective.

The NCAP MACC estimated biomethane at a cost of €377/t of CO2 abated.

However RGFI’s analysis put this cost range at between €78-€150/t CO2 abatement. This figure has been independently verified he explained.

Business case

A KPMG report commissioned by RGFI produced a full cost benefit analysis which showed an overall positive 1.26 cost-benefit ratio through to 2050 for producing biomethane from agricultural organic matter he explains.

That means that for every one euro provided to support biomethane production, €1.26 would be returned to the economy.

Only viable option

Dennehy explained that for many energy users, including many of Ireland’s food processors, biomethane is the only viable and available alternative solution to decarbonise their business without impacting overall operations.

“As users of natural gas, we can make an immediate switch to biomethane, which would deliver our environmental and climate benefit targets at lowest cost, with least disruption,” he explained.

To make biomethane production a viable option for farmers, strong government policy and legislative support are required as well as capital investment of €1.5bn, supported by industry Dennehy explained.

Biogas focus

This week’s edition of the Irish Farmers Journal’s includes a renewable energy Focus supplement which takes an in-depth technical look at biogas production. This week’s Focus is also packed with online extras, including video and podcasts.

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Focus preview: the nuts and bolts of biogas