Ireland begins injecting biomethane from food waste directly into gas grid for the first time

Ireland has begun injecting biomethane directly into its national gas distribution network for the first time. The Bia Energy plant in Huntstown near Dublin became the first producer connected to the grid, converting food and agricultural waste into renewable gas.

The new facility represents an investment of €90 mln. It will process expired food products as well as waste from restaurants, supermarkets and the agricultural sector. The resulting biomethane is compatible with natural gas and can be used in existing infrastructure without requiring upgrades to pipelines or end-user equipment.

Once operating at full capacity, the plant will be able to supply around 120 GWh of renewable energy to the gas network annually. The project is part of an agreement between Gas Networks Ireland and seven independent biomethane producers, with Bia Energy becoming the first to complete its connection to the network.

The project will also produce organic fertilizer. Digestate generated during the processing of organic feedstock will be supplied to local farmers and is expected to replace more than 3 thsd tons of mineral fertilizers annually.

Ireland plans to significantly expand biomethane production, with another six plants expected to be connected to the gas network. The country’s national strategy aims to increase domestic biomethane production to 5.7 TWh by 2030, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels while creating an additional outlet for agricultural and food waste.

Tags: Ireland