Successful Delivery of RNG Upgrading Plant for XRNRJ Project

Successful Delivery of RNG Upgrading Plant for XRNRJ Project in Lyon Metro-Area

By AB Group

The AB Group has successfully delivered, commissioned, and started up another RNG upgrading plant, its 45th in France, for project XRNRJ in Rignieux-Le-Franc near Lyon.

The upgrading unit is based on AB Group’s proprietary BIOCH4NGE technology.
The first injection of renewable natural gas (RNG) into the distribution natural gas network of GRDF took place in May 2024.

This facility represents a major step in waste-to-energy conversion, transforming agricultural and organic waste into clean, grid-compatible RNG.

Project Overview

The plant is designed to process biogas from organic waste and agricultural residues, refining it into high-quality RNG for injection into the GRDF grid.

The BIOCH4NGE 3,5 S system ensures high efficiency and low methane loss, optimizing energy recovery while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Key Project Components

– BIOCH4NGE Membrane Upgrading Unit: A three-stage separation system that removes CO₂ to produce high-purity RNG.

– Dehydration & Activated Carbon Skid: Ensuring the removal of moisture, sulfur compounds, and volatile organic contaminants.

– Hybrid Biogas/Fuel Boiler (240 kWth): Providing thermal needs for the anaerobic digestion process.

– Engineering, Supply, Delivery, Installation, and Startup – A turnkey project delivered by AB GROUP.

Operational Performance & RNG Output

Following commissioning in May 2024, the plant has been operating at full capacity, consistently injecting 100 to 155 Nm³/h of RNG into the GRDF network.

Biogas Input Parameters

– CH₄ Content: 50-60%

– H₂S Content: ≤ 200 ppm

– Biogas Flowrate: Up to 215 Nm³/h

RNG Output Quality

– Methane Purity: ≥ 97%

– Injection Pressure: 11 barg

– Dew Point: ≤ -5°C @ 70 barg

– Recovery Efficiency: > 99.3%

The plant guarantees high efficiency and minimal losses, ensuring optimal production with low environmental impact.

Environmental & Economic Benefits

The facility offers several key sustainability advantages:

– 1,500 tons of CO₂ savings annually, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

– Efficient organic waste management, transforming agricultural residues into renewable energy.

– Soil regeneration uses digestate as a natural fertilizer to replace chemical alternatives.

Feedstock & Sustainable Agriculture

The plant processes sorghum, rye, corn stalks and poultry manure. Converting agricultural byproducts into energy, the facility produces renewable gas while enriching the soil, supporting a circular economy.

Conclusion

With the successful commissioning of this plant, AB GROUP has demonstrated its commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

By combining state-of-the-art technology, high efficiency, and environmental responsibility, this project sets a benchmark for future RNG developments.

For more information, read our Canadian Biogas Magazine.