GRTgaz announced that the year 2022 was very dynamic in terms of connecting new methanization sites to all gas networks. In fact, 149 additional methanization sites have been connected, including 17 on the GRTgaz system. This growth allows France to have an annual production capacity of biomethane or green gas that has reached 9 TWh, which exceeds the objectives set by the law of multiannual programming of energy.
GRTgaz’s “backhaul stations” to bring green gas to consumers
However, the increasing availability of green gas is forcing GRTgaz to adapt with backhaul stations. These installations, 12 in number, 7 of which were inaugurated in 2022, allow the gas produced by a methanization unit to be brought up and out of the distribution network. The gas is then compressed and pressurized for transport, and undergoes volume metering and quality control to ensure that the injected gas meets the carrier’s standards.
This new way of operating, in contrast to the traditional gas network circuit, makes it possible to respond to the growing availability of green gas in France.
Concern for the number of registered biogas projects in 2022
Despite this positive momentum, GRTgaz is concerned about the decline in registered methanization projects in 2022, which are down to 77, compared to 180 in 2019, following the drop in biomethane purchase rates in November 2020. However, the government has reaffirmed its objective of developing biomethane in France and is working on mechanisms to increase the feed-in tariff.
In conclusion, GRTgaz has succeeded in adapting to the growing availability of green gas in France in 2022 by increasing the number of backhaul stations to enable this gas to be transported to consumers. However, the decline in registered methanization projects is a challenge for the biomethane sector in France. The government is working on solutions to encourage the development of this renewable energy.
