Post by account_disabled on Mar 13, 2024 4:11:05 GMT -5
Biomethane stands out as a key piece for Spain, both for its intrinsic potential as a clean and autonomous energy, and for the positive implications for the economy and the environment. By SILVIA SANJOAQUÍN 3667 readings AUTHOR SILVIA SANJOAQUÍN 13-11-2023 TAGS BIOMETHANE The need to move towards sustainability and energy autonomy, intensified by recent geopolitical tensions, has positioned renewable gases at the epicenter of the energy panorama. Within this set, biomethane stands out as a key piece for Spain , both for its intrinsic potential as a clean and autonomous energy, and for the positive implications that its development could bring for the economy and the environment. Faced with an energy transition that requires speed and efficiency, we cannot ignore that electrification, by itself, is not enough. Sectors such as heat production and heavy transport need versatile energy solutions, and this is where biomethane must play a key role. First, it is essential to consider biomethane as a dual tool. On the one hand, it acts as a substitute for fossil natural gas. On the other hand, by taking advantage of emissions that would otherwise go directly into the atmosphere (as is the case with slurry), it acts as a carbon sink. This quality is especially relevant for Spain, where the primary sector, including agriculture and livestock, concentrates 13% of GHG emissions. Added to this environmental value is the versatility of biomethane, a gas comparable to natural gas. The extensive gas infrastructure network already existing in our country facilitates its integration, optimizing investments and accelerating its adoption.
This is a crucial aspect, as the European Union's recent REPowerEU transformation plan has significantly raised biomethane production targets towards 2030. In parallel, the use of waste offered by biomethane production addresses one of the most relevant and urgent challenges in Spain: sustainable waste management. By transforming a problem into an opportunity, we give a decisive boost to CZ Leads the circular economy, essential in the current panorama. It is essential to consider biomethane as a dual tool. On the one hand, it acts as a substitute for fossil natural gas. On the other hand, by taking advantage of emissions that would otherwise go directly into the atmosphere, it acts as a carbon sink. Biomethane also finds innovative applications, such as in the mobility sector . With 24% of GHG emissions coming from transportation, this renewable gas could be the answer to clean and sustainable transportation. But, despite the clear benefits and support from the EU, the implementation of biomethane in Spain has encountered certain administrative and regulatory barriers. Although the Biogas Roadmap is a step in the right direction, adaptation to the current reality requires greater ambition and speed in the deployment of measures . The consolidation of the Origin Guarantee System, implemented in 2023, is progress, as is the introduction of biomethane objectives in the PNIEC, but there is still work to do.
The productive potential of biomethane in Spain is very high . With a production capacity of up to 163 TWh/year, we could satisfy almost 45% of our natural gas demand. Our European neighbors, such as France and Germany, have already recognized this potential and have implemented measures to accelerate its development. Spain, as the third European country with the greatest production potential, should not be left behind. Beyond the energy transition, biomethane also has a significant socioeconomic impact . A full development of this sector could generate more than 20,000 direct jobs and 40,000 indirect jobs, according to Sedigás figures. The construction of biomethane plants would add another 35,000 direct jobs and up to 465,000 indirect jobs. These figures not only highlight the economic potential of the industry, but also its relevance in terms of employability and regional development. However, the transition to biomethane does not end with its production and use. The byproducts of this process, such as digestates, have a high agronomic value . By using these materials as fertilizers and substrates on agricultural lands, we promote sustainable fertilization systems and help capture organic carbon in the soil, reducing dependence on mineral fertilizers. Naturgy's commitment to cleaner, more sustainable energy is palpable in all our efforts to prioritize renewable gas. Currently, Naturgy is at the forefront with two operational biomethane plants, Elena and Edar de Bens , which already have the capacity to inject their production directly into the grid. Furthermore, the Vila-Sana plant will soon be added to this list, and there are nearly 60 more projects in different stages of development with a combined potential of more than 3.5 TWh/year. The horizon is clear: biomethane has the potential to revolutionize the Spanish energy landscape .