Betting big on renewable natural gas

Landfill Gas

Landfill gas is currently the largest source of renewable natural gas (RNG) production, but it presents challenges in terms of lifecycle emissions. Brandon Moffatt explains that while landfill gas is cost-effective, it still results in significant methane emissions, even with gas capture systems in place 1. This is why policies are emerging to divert organic waste from landfills to reduce methane emissions.

Landfills aren't the most effective from an emissions perspective. You still have a significant methane release coming off the caps of those landfills.

--- Brandon Moffatt

The economic viability of landfill gas is influenced by its lower production costs compared to other sources, but its environmental impact remains a concern 2.

   

Dairy Waste

Dairy waste offers a promising alternative for RNG production due to its lower carbon intensity. Brandon Moffatt highlights that dairy waste projects benefit from a well-understood waste stream, making them easier to manage and finance 3. However, the cost structure is higher due to the lower gas yield per ton of material compared to other sources.

Dairy waste, sort of number two, largest source of production today, much lower carbon intensity, potentially negative carbon intensity.

--- Brandon Moffatt

Despite these challenges, the environmental benefits of using dairy waste for RNG are significant, as it can achieve negative carbon intensity 4.

   

Food Waste

Food waste is another viable feedstock for RNG, especially in urban areas where waste is abundant. Brandon Moffatt notes that food waste digestion is most effective near population centers, where diversion policies can help separate it from landfills 5. The carbon intensity of RNG from food waste can range from zero to negative, depending on how it's utilized.

Food waste, where we spend a considerable amount of our career, we take food waste from restaurants, grocery stores, food processors.

--- Brandon Moffatt

This method yields larger gas volumes than dairy waste, offering a balance between cost and environmental impact 4.

   

Pathway Comparisons

Comparing different RNG production pathways reveals diverse economic and environmental impacts. Brandon Moffatt emphasizes that while fossil natural gas is straightforward, RNG involves multiple pathways with varying lifecycle emissions and costs 4. The natural gas system's vast scale in North America underscores the need for diverse solutions, including RNG and hydrogen, to meet decarbonization goals.

We need to do everything all at once to be able to meet the targets that we've set as a society.

--- Brandon Moffatt

Ultimately, each RNG source contributes uniquely to reducing carbon intensity, highlighting the importance of a multifaceted approach 6.