What the Project Is
A virtuous valuation of all biogas for farm methanization is the name of a pioneering project by SUBLIME Energie – the first mission-driven company to truly democratize biomethanisation in small territories. The mission is crystal clear: send fossil fuels to the museum by enabling small producers, even those managing small slurry pits, to rentabilize their investments. The project centers on the liquefaction of biogas which allows its transport between production and valorization sites. It taps into the agricultural biomass potential located far from conventional networks, creating new local supply chains for bioGNL and bioCO2. This approach not only addresses environmental and climate challenges but also increases local energy sovereignty and resilience in the farming sector… all through an innovative circular economy model.
Main Benefit of the Project
The project’s unique solution has several compelling benefits, making it a game changer for farm methanization. In a quick glance, consider the following key figures and facts:
- More than 90% of biomass is held by farmers, highlighting an enormous potential waiting to be unlocked.
- Traditionally, cogeneration has shown limited profitability because of low engine efficiency.
- Biomethane injection into gas networks involves costly purification, marginalizing small farmers or those in remote areas.
- SUBLIME Energie’s model mutually shares purification costs, making smaller installations profitable and accessible.
- BioGNL reduces emissions by 85% compared to fossil fuels, even when considering the entire life cycle.
- The heavy mobility sector now has access to a fully matured technology with annual fleet growth of +36% since 2016.
Addressing the Mismatch in Production and Consumption
The development of the methanization sector has long been hindered by the mismatch between potential biogas production sites and consumption locations. While more than 90% of biomass rests with farmers, many small-scale producers are left out of the advantages that come with accessing gas networks. Historically, cogeneration was used, yet it presented limited profitability due to the low efficiency of engines. Additionally, the injection of biomethane into existing gas networks demanded a costly purification step – an obstacle hardly surmountable by small producers. The project introduces a new service for the collection, transport, purification, and conditioning of biogas, strategically bridging this gap. It effectively creates a framework that turns geographic and economic constraints into opportunities for innovation.
Revolutionizing the Methanization Model
By unlocking the potential of biomethanisation, the project offers a farm methanization model that combines lower investment requirements with fair remuneration for farmers. The technology allows for the liquefaction of biogas, converting it into bioGNL and bioCO2 that can be easily transported and distributed. This mutualized production concept not only valorizes co-products but also improves operational economics, allowing smaller farms to reap benefits that were traditionally reserved for larger entities. There is a crisp sense of empowerment in this model – it equips small territories with the tools needed for renewable energy production and paves the way for long-term sustainability.
Decarbonizing the Transport Sector
Decarbonization of the transport sector stands as a crucial goal in today’s global climate strategy. BioGNL, the product born from the liquefaction of biogas, presents an ideal solution for tackling heavy and agricultural mobility challenges. With range capabilities exceeding 1,000 kilometers, rapid refueling, and improved driving comfort, bioGNL is adapted to the pressing constraints of the road transport sector. As a low-carbon fuel, it shows promise by significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and has already gained traction, growing at a robust annual rate of +36% since 2016. This is not just about cleaner energy – it’s about heralding a mature, scalable technology that’s ready to revolutionize how power is delivered to high-demand sectors.
Empowering Rural and Agricultural Landscapes
In the context of large-scale energy consumption and environmental concerns, transitioning to renewable resources is more imperative than ever. The project not only addresses the environmental impact of traditional fuels but also works towards empowering local communities by ensuring that the biomass potential from agricultural operations is optimally exploited. The concept of mutualized purification costs brings a sense of accessible innovation even to the smallest producers, turning every biogas installation into a stepping stone towards a sustainable future. Through this approach, the traditional energy landscape is being redefined, and rural and agricultural sectors are given their deserved spotlight on the energy stage.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy – By turning biogas into renewable fuels like bioGNL and bioCO2, the project promotes energy that is both affordable and sustainable.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – With a marked reduction of 85% in emissions compared to fossil fuels, the initiative is a clear contributor to global climate action.
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure – The introduction of efficient liquefaction technology fosters innovation and builds resilient infrastructure for energy production and distribution.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – By empowering agricultural operations and reducing reliance on fossil fuels, the project supports the sustainability of rural landscapes and ecosystems.
Enhancing Energy Sovereignty through Innovation
The aim of the project is not only about the physical transformation of energy but also about instilling a dynamic sense of energy sovereignty at the territorial level. Through the use of advanced technology that liquefies biogas, there is now a proven method to transport renewable energy across varying distances. This mapping of production to consumption addresses a longstanding disparity in the energy market, ensuring that even remote and rural communities can benefit from local renewable energy sources. The strategy, embedded in a circular economy approach, highlights the role of mutual collaboration among small producers and regional stakeholders. This renewed perspective on energy production is inspiring, inviting a future that is as sustainable in practice as it is in ambition.
