The role of biogas for a climate-neutral electricity system

05/19/2023

Source: et - Energy Economics Daily Questions

The role of biogas for a climate-neutral, 100% renewable electricity system in 2035

Germany has committed to a climate-neutral economy by 2045 to slow climate change. This requires the phase-out of fossil fuels, including natural gas.

Russia's shortage of natural gas has implications for phase-out scenarios, such as increased use of liquefied natural gas (LNG) and interest in biogas/biomethane as a domestic energy source. The question is whether biogas produced in Germany can replace Russian natural gas. However, the authors of the study emphasize that the focus should not only be on the replacement of a methane source, but on the long-term transformation of the energy system and the efficient use of biogas.

The short study examines the role of biogas in a climate-neutral and renewable electricity system until 2035. The focus is not only on the replacement of natural gas, but on the permanent and sustainable integration of biogas. Biogas can be produced and stored flexibly and used to cover peak loads and balance fluctuating loads. The distinction between biogas and biomethane lies in the CO2 content. Biogas contains CO2 as well as methane, while biomethane is almost identical to natural gas due to upgrading and can be fed into the existing natural gas grid.

Read the entire study here .