Efficient syngas fermentation of gasified woody biomass

The project contributes to the development of efficient biological methanation of gasified woody biomass in a unique “solid state” reactor, developed and patented by Q Power.

Through thermal gasification of forest residues, demolition timber, park and garden waste, etc. the carbon and hydrogen content of the lignocellulosic material is made available to the microbes and thus biological conversion to methane. In this way, the raw material base is broadened.

The potential for these materials has been estimated to 59 TWh/year. Syngas fermentation enables cost-effective production on a smaller scale, <20 MW, which entails several advantages:

• It is easier to secure the feedstock supply and easier logistics.
• It is easier to match excess heat from the gasification process with local heat and steam demand.
• The financial risk is lower.

The project is expected to enable commercialization by 2030, double the Swedish biogas production within 15 years and contribute to an increased degree of self-sufficiency.