Emvolon and Montauk Renewables, Inc. have announced a joint venture to build multiple biogas-to-green methanol projects. Following a successful field demonstration, the companies plan to develop a portfolio of sites capable of producing up to 50,000 metric tons of green methanol annually by 2030, starting with the Atascocita Humble Renewable Energy facility in Humble, Texas, reports Renewable Energy Magazine.
At the HRE site, Emvolon’s patented technology will be used to turn flared gas into low-carbon methanol, producing up to 6,000 metric tons of green methanol each year. Additional projects are also being considered within Montauk’s development pipeline.
The venture represents a major step in expanding the use of biogas beyond renewable natural gas (RNG) and power generation, offering new solutions to cut industrial emissions.
“Montauk is committed to finding more ways to use biogas effectively,” said Sean McClain, President and CEO of Montauk. “This partnership opens exciting opportunities, not just for new projects but also for putting waste streams from existing facilities to better use.”
Demand for green methanol is rising sharply after the International Maritime Organization introduced new net-zero rules in April, which apply to ships over 5,000 gross tonnage. These vessels account for 85% of emissions from international shipping. The Methanol Institute projects global demand for green methanol could reach 14 million metric tons by 2030.
By converting methane emissions into methanol, the Emvolon-Montauk venture aims to cut greenhouse gas emissions while avoiding costly infrastructure or subsidies.
“Emvolon’s technology adapts car engines into small, modular chemical plants that can convert methane from biogas directly into liquid green fuels on-site,” said Dr. Emmanuel Kasseris, CEO of Emvolon. “With Montauk, we can stop flaring and instead turn emissions into sustainable products that industries urgently need.”
