Thinking Renewable Energy? Think Renewable Gas.
The development of a renewable gas sector could provide additional energy options for manufacturers and other commercial users that rely on gas - particularly those with high-heat or continuous processes that cannot be easily electrified.
‘Fuel for Thought’ explores the potential of biomethane - a low-emission renewable gas that supports circular economy outcomes by capturing value from organic waste.
Renewable Gas can support hard to electrify sectors
Commercial and Industrial
Many commercial and industrial businesses rely on gas for high-temperature processes such as food manufacturing, chemicals production, and materials processing, where electrification may be complex or cost-prohibitive.
Biomethane may enable these users to continue operating existing equipment and processes without significant modification, potentially reducing the need for major plant upgrades and avoiding operational disruption associated with fuel switching.
Local Government
Local governments manage organic waste streams such as food waste, green waste and wastewater. Through biomethane production, waste materials like this can be converted into renewable gas.
As the industry develops, biomethane may support emissions reduction in council-operated assets, alongside other existing and emerging energy solutions, while contributing to improved waste and resource management outcomes.
Agriculture
Agricultural activities generate organic by-products such as manure, crop residues and wastewater. Through processes such as anaerobic digestion, these materials can be used to produce biogas, which may then be refined into biomethane.
This may support emissions reduction, improved waste management, and opportunities to participate in emerging renewable gas supply chains, particularly in regional areas.
What is Renewable Gas and how is it produced?
Renewable gas is a term used to describe gases produced from renewable or replenishable sources. These include biomethane and renewable hydrogen.
Biomethane is produced through a process called anaerobic digestion, where organic materials such as food waste, agricultural waste and wastewater break down in the absence of oxygen to produce biogas. This biogas can then be refined to remove carbon dioxide and other impurities to produce biomethane that meets Australian standards for use in the gas network.
Biomethane can be used in place of natural gas and is compatible with existing infrastructure. This process supports circular economy outcomes by converting waste into a usable energy source and reducing associated emissions.
What's happening in the Renewable Gas policy space?
Certification schemes and government policies play an important role in supporting the development of renewable gas in Australia.
GreenPower Renewable Gas Certification
GreenPower enables businesses to purchase renewable gas certificates to match their gas use with certified biomethane. This helps support renewable gas production and may contribute to emissions reduction where electrification is not feasible.
Blunomy Report
This report outlines the potential for biomethane to support emissions reduction in Australian industry and highlights the conditions required for market development, including policy support and investment.
NSW Renewable Fuel Strategy
The NSW Renewable Fuel Strategy outlines actions to support the development and adoption of renewable fuels such as biomethane and renewable hydrogen. It includes funding initiatives, policy frameworks and market development activities aimed at reducing emissions and supporting regional economies.
Renewable Gas Projects in Action
The development of a biomethane industry in Australia is in its early stages. However, there is growing interest supported by available organic feedstocks, existing gas infrastructure, and emerging policy frameworks. Demonstration projects, such as the Malabar Biomethane Injection Plant, are helping to test feasibility and build industry knowledge.
Malabar Biomethane Plant
This project demonstrates biomethane production and injection into the gas network in Australia, providing operational insights into how renewable gas can be integrated locally.
Australia’s Renewable Gas project pipeline
Projects across Australia are exploring the potential for biomethane production and supply, contributing to the development of the sector.
Established renewable gas markets overseas
Renewable gas industries in Europe, the UK and the United States demonstrate large-scale deployment and established market participation.
Want to learn more about Renewable Gas?
If you have an enquiry about renewable gas, including potential projects or supply pathways, we may be able to provide information about network requirements or connect you with relevant industry participants.
News & Research
Forbes Australia: Rethinking The Energy Transition
Renewable gas: helping to pave a decarbonisation pathway for Australia’s heavy industries
