The Chiesone Plant: AB at the heart of the energy transition in Gazzo Veronese, Italy

Written by AB Energy

In Gazzo Veronese, in the province of Verona (Italy), the Chiesone plant today stands as a virtuous example of ecological transition. Originally inaugurated in 2012 for biogas production, the plant has recently been repurposed to produce biomethane thanks to a strategic collaboration between AB, a global leader in energy sustainability solutions, and BTS DevCo, a company within the BTS Group established in 2022 to develop greenfield and brownfield biomethane projects. The new configuration became operational in December 2024, also supported by Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) under the biomethane decree of September 15, 2022.

Today, the plant can process up to 35,750 tonnes of organic by-products, producing 250 Sm³/h of biomethane—more than 2.1 million Sm³ per year—enough to meet the energy needs of around 1,500 households or to fuel 1,000 cars travelling 82 km per day. This contribution is fully aligned with the targets of Italy’s Integrated National Energy and Climate Plan (PNIEC), which aims to achieve an annual production of 6 billion Sm³ of biomethane by 2030.

The plant also generates 30,400 tonnes per year of digestate, a natural fertilizer that enhances soil structure and fertility, contributing to more sustainable agriculture. Its positive environmental impact is also measurable in terms of avoided CO₂ emissions: around 4,500 tonnes annually, equivalent to planting 150,000 trees.

The technological core of the plant is developed by AB, featuring the BIOCH4NGE® platform for biogas upgrading using high-selectivity membranes, and the ECOMAX® system for energy management. The offer also includes a monitoring system and accessory components such as activated carbon filters, compressors, and gas treatment modules. AB managed the entire process – from engineering and commissioning to full-service maintenance – ensuring optimal performance and operational continuity.

The upgrading process yields pure biomethane that meets grid standards, using a three-stage membrane system, booster compressors, a safety flare, and a REMI cabin for filtration and quality control. Cogeneration ensures the plant’s energy self-sufficiency, with heat recovery systems and emission reduction technologies like catalysts and the LEANOx system.

The Chiesone plant is a tangible demonstration of how technology, industrial vision, and collaboration can breathe new life into existing facilities, contributing to decarbonization and the development of biomethane in Italy. It marks an important milestone, with AB reaffirming its leadership role in the energy transition.