The initiative, which involves funding from Bord Gáis Networks (BGN), will enable the Institute to develop its research beyond the academic sphere. The ERI and Bord Gáis have been working together and recently issued a report entitled “The Future of Renewable Gas in Ireland”.
Jerry Murphy, principle investigator in Bioenergy and Biofuels at the ERI said: “We have investigated the sustainability of producing biomethane from a range of feed stocks such as organic waste materials and non-food crops. We have shown that biomethane is far superior to first generation liquid biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel. Of huge benefit is the fact that the gas can be used as a transport fuel in natural gas vehicles. The gas grid is the distribution system for the fuel, negating the need for on road tankers”.
In turn, John Barry Managing Director of Bord Gáis Networks added: “Renewable gas is already in use in other countries such as Denmark, Germany and Sweden. That must be a viable option for Ireland in the near future. To stimulate this market BGN is currently engaging with the transport and energy sectors to establish an NGV industry forum.”
Source: Bord Gáis
