BIONORROIS: PRODEVAL Equips One of the Largest Methanization Sites in France

Written by PRODEVAL

With an impressive annual capacity of 153 GWh and a cutting-edge biogas upgrading system, the Fontaine-le-Dun site in Normandy represents a significant milestone in the French biogas sector. PRODEVAL has deployed its largest biogas upgrading unit to date as part of a strategic partnership with TotalEnergies and Cristal Union. This major project marks an important turning point in the development of biogas infrastructure in France, particularly for large-scale methanization plants.

High-Capacity Infrastructure

Located in Normandy, the BIONORROIS site processes a substantial 185,000 tons of organic materials annually. It stands as one of the most important methanization projects in France, ranking 3rd in the country for treatment volume and 2nd for biogas upgrading capacity. The site injects biomethane into the grid, with a maximum flow rate of 1,650 Nm³/h, corresponding to an annual production of 153 GWh. This is enough to meet the energy consumption of 38,000 homes, or approximately 83,000 people. The scale of this operation demonstrates the growing role of biogas in France’s energy mix.

Local Valourization and Circular Economy

A significant portion of the inputs used at BIONORROIS comes from beet pulp provided by the nearby Cristal Union sugar factory. The rest is made up of locally sourced agri-food waste, supporting the principle of a circular economy. The site also generates 150,000 m³ of digestate annually, which is fully valorized by local agricultural cooperatives. This process helps avoid the use of 5,500 tons of chemical fertilizers every year, fostering sustainable agricultural practices. Furthermore, BIONORROIS contributes to a reduction of 30,600 tons of CO₂ emissions annually, highlighting the site’s role in mitigating climate change. 

A Record Biogas Upgrading Unit for PRODEVAL

At BIONORROIS, PRODEVAL has installed its largest membrane-based biogas upgrading unit, dedicated to the injection of biomethane into the gas network. This advanced technology ensures an efficient separation of gases, producing sustainable biomethane that meets the highest quality standards. The project, co-developed with TotalEnergies, underscores PRODEVAL’s key role in building large-scale methanization infrastructures in France.

BIONORROIS is a prime example of how industrial synergies can drive the energy transition forward. By combining technological innovation, local resource valourization, and strong environmental performance, the site stands as a model of sustainable development in the biogas sector.