In a significant stride towards decarbonizing industrial sectors, a recent study published in ‘Results in Engineering’ highlights the potential of biohydrogen production through biomethane steam reforming combined with carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS). This innovative approach, referred to as HyBECCS, aims to reduce emissions in Spain’s tile industry, a sector often labeled as hard-to-abate due to its reliance on natural gas.
Luis Yagüe, the lead author from the Rafael Mariño Chair in New Energy Technologies at Comillas Pontifical University, emphasizes the dual benefits of this method. “By utilizing biogas derived from organic waste, we can not only produce renewable hydrogen but also capture biogenic CO2, resulting in negative emissions,” he explains. This is particularly relevant as industries globally seek pathways to meet stringent carbon reduction targets.
The research reveals that a 50% HyBECCS and natural gas blend could significantly lower emissions while maintaining cost competitiveness. Specifically, the blend could achieve a 53.4% reduction in emissions and is economically viable when natural gas prices exceed 16.5 €/MWh. This is especially true when the biomethane is sourced from the organic fraction of municipal solid waste, making it a sustainable and economically sensible alternative.
The potential impact of this research extends beyond environmental benefits. By requiring only 4.7 TWh of biomethane to satisfy the tile sector’s needs, which accounts for less than 3% of Spain’s total biomethane production capabilities, it showcases a practical application that could drive investment and innovation in the renewable gas sector. “Our findings indicate that the tile industry can transition to greener practices without compromising on cost or efficiency,” Yagüe adds.
This study not only paves the way for a more sustainable tile industry but also positions Spain as a leader in the adoption of advanced renewable gas technologies. As industries worldwide grapple with the need for decarbonization, strategies such as HyBECCS could serve as a blueprint for similar sectors aiming to reduce their carbon footprints.
For more insights on this groundbreaking research and its implications for the energy sector, you can visit Rafael Mariño Chair in New Energy Technologies.
