Finnish capital city will run regional public transport with locally produced biomethane

In a year’s time up to 50 buses will have access to the local biomethane from wastewater originating from the municipalities of Espoo, Kauniainen, Kirkkonummi and Vantaa, all located in the Helsinki Metropolitan Area. While Gasum will provide the equipment needed at the plant to upgrade biogas into a consistent quality transport fuel, HSL will offer an environmental bonus to encourage bus operators to switch to biomethane.

“Biogas is perfectly suited for use as a public transport fuel. It helps reduce carbon dioxide, particulate and nitrogen oxide emissions from transport, which is particularly important in urban areas. This is also the most economically advantageous option as it enables 100% utilization of the Suomenoja plant’s energy production while at the same time resulting in energy savings for us,” explained HSY Executive Director Raimo Inkinen.

“At HSL we wish to promote the use of a variety of environmentally friendly fuels in public transport. Experiences gained over the years in the use of gas-fuelled buses have been positive and improved urban air quality in the area. Transport biogas produced from wastewater at the Suomenoja plant will cover the annual fuel consumption of almost 50 buses or the equivalent of more than 6 million commuter journeys every year. Carbon dioxide emissions will be reduced by 4,700 tonnes per year,” said Reijo Mäkinen, Director of Transport Services Department, HSL.

Source: Gasum