The CASE E-Methane project is focused on turning green hydrogen and biogenic carbon dioxide (CO₂) into renewable e-methane, which is chemically identical to natural gas and can be injected directly into the existing gas network and used by homes and businesses without any changes to their equipment. This approach can help Northern Ireland make the most of its renewable electricity and biogas resources, while also supporting the transition to a low-carbon energy system.
Led by academics from Queen’s University Belfast, the project also included Renewables United Ltd, Phoenix Energy, Firmus Energy, and specialist input from researchers at US National Renewable Energy Laboratory. Working at a lab scale, the team successfully tested a biological system in which specialised microorganisms combine hydrogen and carbon dioxide to form methane. If that hydrogen is produced from renewable electricity with carbon dioxide captured from biogas plants the produced gas is essentially carbon neutral.
The project also explored how this technology can help balance the energy system, especially when there is extra wind or solar power. A modelling study demonstrated that by converting surplus renewable electricity into e-methane, energy can be stored for use when it’s needed most, such as during periods of low wind. This also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports rural jobs by making use of local resources.
If realised at full scale, this approach could double the amount of renewable gas available in Northern Ireland, create new jobs, and provide a reliable, low-carbon energy source for the future.