Biomethane injection in 2022
Biomethane injection feedback report.
GRTgaz, GRDF, REGAZ-Bordeaux, R-GDS, Soregies and Teréga have jointly released the fifth edition of the biomethane injection feedback report. This independent report aims to provide valuable insights into the injection performance of biomethane plants utilizing "agricultural" and "industrial" residues. The French biomethane sector is witnessing robust growth, with an impressive 41% increase in annual production capacity, reaching 9.03 TWh by the end of 2022. Agricultural and industrial methanisation plants continue to dominate the sector, constituting 89% of the total sites.
Key results
- In 2022, the number of sites continued to grow with the addition of 135 new agricultural and industrial sites that became operational.
- The high prices of natural gas in the market during 2022 motivated many producers to exceed their maximum contractual capacity (Cmax) by injecting additional gas, taking advantage of the favorable market conditions. This trend resembles what occurred at the end of 2021. It is important to note that some producers are still awaiting administrative approvals to amend and expand their injection contracts.
- Overall, the average utilization rate of Cmax reached 94.6% showing a significant increase compared to 2021. This can be attributed to the favorable market conditions and the ability of some producers to inject gas beyond their Cmax. Agricultural sites that have been operating for over two years maintained good performance, with an average utilization rate of 87.3% and a median of 94%.
- The availability rate of injection sites remained stable in 2022, with an average of 99.5%, slightly higher than the 99.4% rate recorded in 2021.