[Natalia]

It turns out that (very) large AD plants are more competitive (CapEx decrease per Nm3 of biomethane) and needs less tie-in points for grid injection which is a good point for biomethane development. Recently, CIP and its partners disclosed the biomethane platform Greengate Biogas for the construction of 7 plants of 250 GWh/y of biomethane capacity in Ireland. Do you think this will be the standard from now on?

Discussion

[Natalia]

Reply by Dr. Nick Primmer @future-biogas : Yes, economies of scale can help unlock the potential of AD – we at Future Biogas are targeting 100-150 GWh plants. Nevertheless, small plants may find a niche in remote/off-grid communities.

[Natalia]

Comment by Sara Bartle @rea : Again, I agree it’s a matter for economies of scale and this may be a reason why smaller plants have been less incentivised to participate with the more recent support schemes. Although most will state that the additional costs for connecting to a grid and significantly upgrading from biogas to biomethane are barriers. There is a good argument for encouraging smaller plants where they can manage a more local feedstock and digestate management. They can also produce biogas or transport fuels rather than having to commit to grid connections and/or biomethane upgrading costs. However, these plants may struggle with the initial investment costs unless otherwise supported.