Brazil's hydrocarbons regulator ANP authorized biomethane company GNR Fortaleza to conduct tests that will assess the quality of biomethane blends distributed through natural gas distribution networks.
The six-month pilot program will test the technical specification of biomethane blends distributed by Ceara state distributor Cegas. As part of the program, both ANP and end-consumers will receive monthly reports of the calorific value of the gas, with the goal of improving regulations for biomethane distribution.
The test aims to develop Brazil's biomethane market, with the goal of expanding distribution through pipeline networks.
GNR Fortaleza, which is a joint venture between MDC and Marquise Ambiental, is the only company in the country that distributes biomethane directly through the grid. It supplies 16pc of the gas consumed in Ceara and has been distributing biomethane produced at the Caucaia landfill through Cegas' network since 2017.
The study aims to make biomethane more competitive and pave the way for smaller landfills to distribute the fuel by pipeline, a spokesperson for MDC and Marquise Ambiental told Argus. It also aims to encourage overall production of biomethane by landfills.
The pilot project will take place as additional landfills prepare to distribute biomethane through the networks. Landfill operator Orizon will begin distributing biomethane from its Jaboatao dos Guararapes landfill in Pernambuco state to gas distributor Copergas in 2024. The 10-year contract is for 60,000 m³/d.
Several state gas distributors, including Parana's Compagas, Mato Grosso do Sul's MSGas, Bahia's Bahigas and Santa Catarina's SCGas, have held tender offers for biomethane supply.
