What is Renewable Natural Gas (RNG)?

Jan 28, 2023 | Biogas

What is it? 

Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) is a clean and sustainable alternative to conventional natural gas. It is made from organic waste that would otherwise end up in landfills and emit harmful methane gas into the atmosphere and is considered a renewable source of energy because it is produced from renewable organic matter and is replenished continuously through natural processes. RNG is created through a process called anaerobic digestion where microorganisms break down organic waste into a bio gas. The bio gas is then cleaned and treated to remove impurities, such as carbon dioxide, to produce RNG. The RNG is then processed into a form that is compatible with the natural gas grid and can be used for heating, cooking, and power generation. 

Benefits

RNG has several benefits compared to conventional natural gas. First, it reduces greenhouse gas emissions by capturing and using methane that would otherwise escape into the atmosphere. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential 28 times higher than carbon dioxide. By using RNG, we can help reduce the amount of methane emissions and mitigate their impact on the environment. In addition, RNG can also be used to create a circular economy where organic waste is turned into a valuable resource. It reduces the amount of waste going to landfills and helps conserve resources by reducing the need to extract new fossil fuels.

RNG is a versatile energy source that can be used for various purposes such as heating homes and businesses, generating electricity, and fueling vehicles. It has the same energy content as conventional natural gas and can be used in the same ways, making it an accessible and easy-to-use source of clean energy. In conclusion, RNG is a promising source of clean and sustainable energy that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve resources, and create a circular economy. As technology advances and more organic waste is processed into RNG, it will become increasingly important in our energy mix.

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