Sustainable Energy – Biogas

One of the main uses of biogas is electric energy production, which we all use every day. Take a moment to think of electricity’s importance. We use it in lighting our buildings, or heating and cooling our homes. It functions major appliances, communication devices, and manufacturing equipment. Now it’s beginning to power more and more of our vehicles on the road!

Electricity production is vital to the world and societies we’ve developed. It is worth noting biogas’ potential role in this industry. The U.S. Department of Energy shares some interesting facts and numbers on its biofuel page. They estimate that biogas energy production could potentially satisfy 12% of the U.S. national electricity demand. And that’s from wastewater treatment alone! Keep in mind, wastewater treatment is not the only source of biogas. It is evident that biogas has the potential to meet a large percentage of our energy demands.

The previous section talked about biogas’ potential in fueling a new wave of electric cars. In the meantime, we still have a large demand for other transportation fuel sources.

Biogas used for electrical generation is not as refined as it can be. This biogas is also known as raw biogas, being around 50-70% methane. To be suitable in engines that power vehicles with natural gas, it must be further refined. Biomethane is the upgraded version of raw biogas and is 90-99% methane.

By separating the CO₂ from raw biogas, biomethane is created. This process is implemented in many operations that already work with biogas. For example, some landfills produce biogas and biomethane to power their facilities and vehicles. True sustainable energy at work!