As we continue to decarbonise the transport sector the need for renewable energy sources is increasing. Biogas a product of anaerobic digestion has the potential to be used as a transport fuel.
Currently some vehicles can be run on natural gas which is a fossil fuel. Biomethane can be directly substituted for natural gas in these vehicles as the make up of both gases is the same. Biomethane can be supplied to filling stations through the national gas grid.
This would be advantageous in vehicles that are difficult to electrify such as HGVs. fuel stations in Germany are incorporating biomethane as a fuel source at filling stations. Where there is no gas grid available, gas can be transported by truck in compressed or liquified states.
Biomethane from energy crops offers the most travel distance per hectare of land than other biofuel options such as oil, biodiesel or bioethanol (International Renewable Energy Agency). The use of biomethane offers a 60-80% reduction in GHG in comparison with the use of fossil fuels.
Many cities now run bus fleets on gas resulting in less emissions and better air quality in built up areas. The purchase of diesel fuel public transport is no longer viable with EU emissions targets. Ireland has began the integration of electric buses, where the energy cell is charged by hydrogen gas creating zero emissions.
