The Future of Renewable Gas in Ireland

Introduction to Renewable Gas in Ireland

As Ireland moves towards its ambitious climate targets of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 51% by 2030 and achieving net-zero by 2050, renewable gas is emerging as a key player in the country's energy transition. Unlike conventional natural gas, renewable gas is produced from sustainable sources, making it a carbon-neutral or low-carbon alternative that can utilize existing gas infrastructure.

In this article, we'll explore the current state and future potential of renewable gas in Ireland, including the different types, production methods, and the role it could play in decarbonizing Ireland's energy system.

Types of Renewable Gas

Biomethane

Biomethane is the most developed form of renewable gas in Ireland. It's produced by upgrading biogas, which is generated from the anaerobic digestion of organic materials such as agricultural waste, food waste, sewage, and energy crops. After upgrading, biomethane has properties similar to natural gas and can be injected directly into the existing gas grid.

Gas Networks Ireland has already established injection facilities at Cush, County Kildare, where biomethane is being added to the national gas network. The first commercial biomethane plant came online in 2019, and several more are in various stages of development across the country.

Hydrogen

Hydrogen is another promising renewable gas option, particularly "green hydrogen" produced using renewable electricity through electrolysis. Ireland's abundant wind resources make it well-positioned to produce green hydrogen at scale in the future.

While hydrogen technology is less mature than biomethane in Ireland, significant research and pilot projects are underway. Gas Networks Ireland is exploring how the existing gas network could be adapted to transport hydrogen, either as a blend with natural gas or potentially as 100% hydrogen in certain sections of the network in the future.

Benefits of Renewable Gas for Ireland

• Carbon Reduction: Renewable gas can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels.
• Circular Economy: Using waste materials to produce biomethane supports circular economy principles.
• Energy Security: Domestically produced renewable gas reduces reliance on imported energy.
• Rural Development: Biomethane production creates new income streams for farmers and supports rural jobs.
• Existing Infrastructure: Renewable gas can utilize Ireland's existing gas network, requiring minimal new infrastructure.
• Flexible Energy Source: Unlike some renewables, gas can be stored and used when needed, helping to balance the electricity grid.

Current Projects and Initiatives

Several initiatives are currently driving the development of renewable gas in Ireland:

The Green Gas Certification Scheme

This scheme allows renewable gas producers to certify their gas, enabling consumers to verify they are purchasing renewable gas. This certification is crucial for businesses looking to reduce their carbon footprint and meet sustainability targets.

Government Support

The Irish government's Climate Action Plan recognizes the role of renewable gas in meeting climate targets. The Support Scheme for Renewable Heat (SSRH) provides financial support for biomass and anaerobic digestion heating systems, which can be part of biomethane production facilities.

Industry Collaboration

Gas Networks Ireland, along with industrial gas users and agricultural organizations, is working to develop renewable gas production. Their ambition is to have renewable gas constitute 20% of Ireland's gas supply by 2030.

Challenges and Opportunities

Challenges

Despite its potential, renewable gas development in Ireland faces several challenges:

• Cost: Renewable gas production is currently more expensive than natural gas, requiring support mechanisms to be competitive.
• Scale: Achieving significant production volumes requires many new production facilities.
• Regulatory Framework: A more comprehensive regulatory framework is needed to support renewable gas growth.
• Public Awareness: There is limited public understanding of renewable gas and its benefits.

Opportunities

However, significant opportunities exist:

• Agricultural Integration: Ireland's strong agricultural sector provides abundant feedstock for biomethane production.
• Wind Energy: Ireland's world-class wind resources could power green hydrogen production.
• Carbon Credits: Renewable gas producers may benefit from carbon credit schemes as carbon pricing increases.
• Export Potential: Ireland could potentially become an exporter of renewable gas expertise and possibly the gas itself.

The Future Outlook

Looking ahead, renewable gas is expected to play an increasingly important role in Ireland's energy mix. Gas Networks Ireland's Vision 2050 report outlines how renewable gas could account for over 50% of the gas network by 2050, with the remaining gas being decarbonized through carbon capture and storage.

For homes and businesses currently using natural gas, the transition to renewable gas offers a pathway to reduce carbon emissions without requiring major changes to existing heating systems or industrial processes. This makes it a practical complement to electrification strategies in Ireland's overall decarbonization efforts.

How FermeSovve Gas is Contributing

At FermeSovve Gas, we're actively preparing for the renewable gas transition:

• Offering hybrid heating solutions that can easily integrate with renewable gas supplies
• Providing consulting services for businesses looking to transition to renewable gas
• Staying at the forefront of hydrogen-ready boiler technology
• Participating in industry working groups on renewable gas standards and safety

Conclusion

Renewable gas represents a significant opportunity for Ireland to reduce carbon emissions while leveraging existing infrastructure and creating new economic opportunities. While challenges remain, the momentum behind renewable gas development is growing, supported by government policy, industry investment, and increasing consumer demand for sustainable energy solutions.

As Ireland continues its energy transition, renewable gas will likely form an important part of the solution, working alongside other renewable technologies to create a more sustainable and secure energy future for the country.