The transformation of biogas into biomethane It has positioned itself as one of the most relevant solutions in the fight against climate change, the utilization of waste, and the promotion of the circular economy in both Europe and Spain. Although biogas was already used in many plants, the jump to biomethane –a renewable gas with characteristics similar to conventional natural gas– is awakening the interest of governments, companies and social groups due to its direct injection capacity into existing networks and its potential to reduce polluting emissions.
The move towards biomethane involves a decisive commitment through mature technologies capable of decarbonizing key sectors such as industry and transportation, as well as reactivating rural areas through local energy and job creation. All this without requiring major infrastructure reforms., which represents a competitive advantage over other renewable sources that require structural changes.
Boosting major projects: from Italy to Catalonia
Europe is seeing biomethane climb the ranks in the energy mix. thanks to large-scale projects. A recent example is the CH4T platform, in which Suma Capital participates, which has secured €100 million in non-recourse financing, led by BBVA, to convert seven biogas plants into biomethane in the Italian regions of Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. The modernization of these facilities will allow for an annual production capacity of over 295 GWh of biomethane, avoiding more than 85.000 tons of CO₂ and recovering more than 400.000 tons of agricultural and livestock by-products.
The operation, supported by a solid technical and financial team, confirms the trend of converting conventional energy infrastructure to sustainable alternatives, with regulated contracts that guarantee revenue for years and promote the decarbonization of the industry. Furthermore, these types of projects help consolidate Spain and Italy's leadership in the European energy transition, demonstrating how public-private collaboration is becoming a driver of new investment.
Local transformation and rural development
The impact of biomethane goes beyond the industrial sphere and directly affects the rural fabric. The International Energy Agency indicates that biogas and biomethane could supply up to a quarter of the world's natural gas using organic, animal and urban waste, which represents a unique opportunity for traditionally forgotten territoriesBiomethane plants are creating focal points for agricultural and livestock enterprise, enabling sustainable waste management and the production of products such as fertilizers from digestate.
Examples in Spain, such as the planned plant in Lliria (Valencia) or the one in Alcarràs (Lleida), promoted by the local livestock sector, demonstrate the potential of biomethane. Beyond energy generation, these projects contribute to job creation and population maintenance in depopulated areas, as well as helping to reduce waste dumped in landfills.
At European level, more than 1.500 plants already inject biomethane into the gas network.
Innovation and biomethane in urban transport
Biomethane also reaches public transportThrough the LIFE NIMBUS project, Barcelona has demonstrated the viability of using biomethane as fuel for urban buses, utilizing wastewater treatment plants and power-to-gas technologies to transform surplus renewable energy into hydrogen and then biomethane. The TMB pilot bus, which has traveled more than 14.000 km per year using this renewable gas, has achieved a reduction in emissions by more than 80% compared to diesel, reinforcing Spain's roadmap to increase biomethane production by 2030.
This model, in addition to its environmental benefits, is replicable in other cities and sectors, as highlighted by innovation leaders and university experts. Biomethane production in wastewater treatment plants is a realistic way to leverage existing infrastructure, advance urban decarbonization, and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Benefits for households and pending challenges
Biomethane is increasingly perceived as a sustainable and profitable option. to supply energy to Spanish homes. Since it can take advantage of the existing natural gas grid, it doesn't require complicated renovations or significant investments from consumers. Various platforms and social campaigns are promoting its use to gradually and affordably decarbonize homes, highlighting its advantages over other renewable alternatives that can entail higher adaptation costs.
Among the challenges facing the sector are the need to increase demand, improve social acceptance in rural areas, and ensure the environmental integration of projects. Organic waste management, emissions reduction, and collaboration with the primary sector and public administrations will be essential for biomethane to reach its potential in the coming years.
The development of biogas into biomethane is generating a revolutionary change in waste management and the European energy mix. Its growth not only promotes decarbonization and energy independence, but also revitalizes rural areas, creates local employment, and offers a competitive alternative for industry, transport, and households, consolidating its position as a key pillar in the transition toward a circular and low-carbon economy.