LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT OF BIOMETHANE PRODUCTION VIA A NATIONWIDE SYSTEMS OF GASIFICATION AND METHANATION FOR IRELAND.

摘要

Ireland’s 2015 Energy White Paper proposes the guidelines for a radical transformation in the energyrnsector in Ireland and a large reduction of CO_2 emissions from 2015 to 2050. Biomass-derived synthetic natural gasrn(bio-SNG) via gasification and methanation (GaM) represents a potential route to decarbonise the use of natural gas.rnThis work presents the initial assessments of suitable resource availability and performs GIS-based (GeographicrnInformation System) mapping of them. The ultimate goal of the work is to design a GaM-based bio-SNG productionrnand distribution network that is environmentally and economically sustainable. Results show that GaM has thernpotential to meet Ireland’s energy targets utilising wastes, residues and energy crops grown exclusively on low-valuernmarginal land. The potential key role of energy crops on marginal land is highlighted for further study. Future stepsrnof the work will involve uncertainty quantification, full life cycle assessment and techno-economic analysis of thernproposed system.