bioLNG

bioLNG refers to liquefied biomethane, a form of renewable natural gas produced from biogas that has been upgraded to pipeline-quality methane and then cooled to cryogenic temperatures (-162°C) for liquefaction. It functions as a drop-in replacement for fossil LNG and can be used in the same engines, fueling infrastructure, and supply chains without significant modification.

Production and supply chains begin with biogas generated by anaerobic digestion of organic matter such as manure, agricultural residues, food waste, and sewage. The biogas is upgraded to biomethane by removing CO2 and impurities, yielding a renewable methane stream. This biomethane is then liquefied to produce bioLNG. Market deployment often uses a mass-balance approach, allowing producers to certify a share of LNG as bioLNG even when supply chains are mixed.

Applications and market uptake are strongest in heavy-duty road transport, maritime shipping, and certain rail contexts, where LNG provides a high-energy-density fuel compatible with existing LNG assets. BioLNG can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions compared with fossil LNG when feedstock management minimizes methane leaks and the renewable feedstocks are responsibly sourced.

Environmental and regulatory context emphasize sustainability and traceability. The climate benefits of bioLNG depend on feedstock type, management practices, and leakage control. Many regions support bioLNG through sustainability criteria, guarantees of origin, and renewable gas policies within frameworks such as renewable energy directives and transportation fuel regulations, aiming to promote low-emission alternatives in heavy transport and logistics.