Estimated methane emissions are, in most cases, inaccurate. Bluemethane provides solutions to precisely measure and monitor dissolved methane, facilitating accurate reporting of emissions.
Our service identifies where best to capture the methane. In many cases methane is emitted from the hydropower reservoir through degassing. Bluemethane’s solution is designed to capture this methane before it is released into the atmosphere, generating a new source of revenue.
The technology consists of two stages: a gravity-driven inline degassing unit which removes methane from water, and a light vacuum system into which the water flows. If necessary, the degassed water is then sent for further treatment. Methane is collected from a biogas stream that is sent for further processing, and turned into energy right where it’s needed.
Although other water-based methane capture technologies are available, the necessary financial mechanisms to support their scaled deployment have not previously existed. As we transition to cleaner energies and tackle the climate crisis, a financial solution that supports methane abatement alongside an increase in hydropower generation is vital.
The Reservoir Methane Capture Mechanism is the first of its kind ‘methane-as-a-service’ financial model with blended funding. This will unlock investments into emerging methane capture technology in hydropower reservoirs, to produce cleaner energy.
This mechanism enables hydropower operators to adopt these methane capture systems, whilst avoiding the risks associated with deploying new technology outside their business scope. This financial instrument provides short-term, stable and tangible revenues using methane captured from hydropower reservoirs. The recovered methane is used to fuel biogas generators and produce carbon credits. This mechanism reduces emissions from a previously unaddressed carbon source, whilst increasing clean energy production.
OUR hydro research scientist
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Carbon dioxide has been well mapped. However, sources of methane are only starting to be fully understood. Below are some explanations to understand this area further.
Whether it is to know your emissions and report them, even if they are low, or to understand how you can utilise the methane from your reservoirs.
Our measurement system is based on UNESCO and IHA guidelines (2010). Our protocols are customisable. We formulate a sampling plan for each case based on the needs and site conditions. Our current approach includes high-resolution sampling and gas chromatography analysis in the laboratory. Finally, we obtain a mapping of methane and other gases if required, as well as seasonal variability. Our report contains the potential use of methane according to the results and recommendations.
Using an example across 11 reservoirs, the total water flow capacity is estimated at 54,000 m³/s. Considering a 5% penetration on this capacity would lead to a total of 273 methane capture projects of 10 m³/s each. These projects could vary in size and shape but would, on average, replicate the structure laid out on the pilot.
This would lead to a capital mobilization of USD 3 billion, funded mainly by commercial investors. Moreover, it would capture 217,000 tons of methane or 6.8 million tons of CO2e each year.
There is increasing evidence supporting the need to reduce methane emissions. President Biden has proposed the price per tonne of methane emissions to be $1,500 because “these emissions cause more warming, health impacts, and economic damage in the short term.”
We estimate the potential market for carbon offsets from reservoirs to be in excess of £20bn.
We would be happy to talk you through both the measurement approach and capture technology. Please email us.
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