Biogas production from pelleted and briquetted straw, roadside grass and reeds

The EU Commission has a target of production of 350 TWh biomethane by 2030, and in Sweden a target of 10 TWh is proposed. Currently, approximately 35 TWh biomethane is produced in EU and 1,5 TWh in Sweden. To enable production of biomethane, an economically viable concept is required that takes advantage of the potential from waste and residual products so that economies of scale can be achieved.

Agriculture has the largest untapped potential in Sweden, with a total of 4-10 TWh per year (excluding energy crops). Straw corresponds to 2-4 TWh per year of the total potential, and roadside grass and reed corresponds to approximately 0,3-1 TWh per year.

Alongside the political objective, there is an increased demand for biomethane from heavy trucks, industry, and shipping, which further justifies demonstration of biogas production from straw and lignin-based substrates.

This project is a feasibility study and it shall clarify and justify demonstration of digestion of straw, roadside grass and reeds from energy and climate perspective.