Australia explores large-scale biomethane production from waste

Australia is assessing the potential for large-scale production of biomethane from organic waste as part of efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions and reduce strain on the energy system, Xinhua reported, citing research from the University of Melbourne.

A team of scientists from the university has demonstrated that organic waste streams — including food scraps, wastewater and animal waste — can be safely converted into clean gas suitable for use in households and industrial applications.

The researchers identified key parameters required to produce high-quality biomethane, a development expected to improve the economic viability of production and support updates to national energy standards.

Under revised regulations, Australia now formally recognizes biomethane as equivalent to natural gas, introduces limits on pollutant content and establishes a regulatory framework enabling its integration into existing gas networks.

Biomethane, also known as renewable natural gas, is produced through the anaerobic decomposition of organic waste and is regarded as a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels.

Researchers noted that, amid ongoing energy pressures in Australia, the expansion of biomethane technologies could serve as an important complement to electrification—particularly in sectors such as heavy industry and transport, where replacing conventional fuels remains technically challenging.

By Tamilla Hasanova