Impact of biomethane utilization based on energy efficiency, economic feasibility, and greenhouse gas reduction in on-site facilities in Korea

It is crucial to research the effects of biogas and biomethane in order to optimize their use. This study comprehensively assessed the energy conversion efficiency, reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and economic feasibility of several biogas and biomethane on-site plants. Biogas plants achieved 50.2 % and biomethane plants achieved 83.0 % energy efficiency. Furthermore, biomethane facilities are quite profitable, whereas biogas plants are less cost-effective. However, since the stable operation of the biomethane plant requires a continuous supply of biogas, we proposed two scenarios (integrating the operating system and utilizing unused biogas) that could complementarily develop the two facilities. Additionally, using biogas and biomethane demonstrated benefits in lowering GHG. This study focuses on biomethane's potential as a renewable energy source and the complementary development of two facilities to boost biogas and biomethane use.