A new partnership between Emvolon, a company spun out of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and Montauk Renewables has been launched to convert biogas into green methanol. The announcement follows the successful completion of a field demonstration project, reports Bioenergy Insight.
The joint venture plans to develop multiple production sites, aiming to generate up to 50,000 metric tonnes of green methanol each year by 2030.
The first project will be located at the Atascocita Humble renewable energy facility in Humble, Texas. There, Emvolon’s patented technology will be used to convert flared gas into as much as 6,000 metric tonnes of low-emission methanol annually.
The initiative signals a new direction for how biogas is used—moving beyond its traditional applications in renewable natural gas and power generation. The focus is now shifting toward producing green liquid fuels, which can help lower emissions in industries that are difficult to decarbonise, such as shipping, aviation, and chemicals.
“This is a major step for us,” said Sean McClain, President and CEO of Montauk Renewables. “We’re finding new ways to use biogas more effectively. This project not only opens the door for new facilities but also helps us get more value from our existing operations.”
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) recently adopted rules aimed at achieving net-zero emissions for large ships, leading to increased global demand for green methanol. According to the Methanol Institute, demand could rise to 14 million metric tonnes per year by 2030.
Dr Emmanuel Kasseris, CEO of Emvolon, explained that the company’s system turns internal combustion engines into small chemical plants. These can convert methane gas on-site into low-emission fuel that can be easily transported.
“Instead of letting gas go to waste, we’re turning it into something useful,” said Kasseris. “This work with Montauk allows us to take something harmful and turn it into a sustainable energy source.”
The joint venture is designed to make use of methane that would otherwise be flared and lost. It does not depend on building new pipelines or receiving government support to operate profitably.
