UK biogas technology firm WASE announced a successful fundraising campaign, securing over £8.5 million, including £2.4 million in non-dilutive funding.
WASE’s Electro-Methanogenic Reactor (EMR) technology, unique to the company, optimizes biogas production from biomass in anaerobic digestion (AD) plants and organic matter in wastewater. These units increase biogas production by 30% and accelerate the process by up to tenfold. Notably, the technology enhances the methane content of biogas to over 80%, surpassing conventional AD methods which typically yield methane contents of 50-60%. Additionally, WASE’s plug-and-play system is 50-70% smaller than current alternatives, facilitating easy integration into existing infrastructure with customization options for streamlined deployment and enhanced energy output.
Driven by stringent regulations and rising costs, food and beverage companies are increasingly turning to cost-effective, on-site wastewater treatment solutions. WASE has already established partnerships with manufacturers like Hepworth and St Peter’s Brewery to convert their wastewater into renewable energy.
The funding round, led by Extantia Capital and supported by Hitachi Ventures, WEPA Ventures, and Engie New Ventures, among others, underscores the confidence in WASE’s technology. Thomas Fudge, WASE’s CEO, emphasized the company’s goal to set new standards in waste treatment and energy sectors by optimizing waste breakdown and methane production, positioning themselves as leaders in the biogas market.
Carlota Ochoa Neven Du Mont, Principal at Extantia, highlighted the transformative potential of WASE’s approach in maximizing biogas and biomethane yields, making the AD process more profitable and productive for industrial businesses.
Camille Bonenfant-Jeanneney, Managing Director of ENGIE Renewable Gases Europe, emphasized ENGIE’s commitment to advancing biomethane production, aiming to develop 10 TWh per year of capacity in Europe by 2030. Participation in WASE’s venture reflects ENGIE’s dedication to deploying innovative technologies for greater efficiency and competitiveness.
WASE intends to utilize the funds to expand operations, execute signed contracts and projects, and enhance their product offerings, furthering their impact in the renewable energy sector.
