Air Liquide Boosts Biomethane Capacity in U.S. with Two New Units

Air Liquide persists in broadening its capabilities in biomethane, alternatively recognized as Renewable Natural Gas (RNG), within the United States by erecting two additional production facilities. Positioned in Center Township, Pennsylvania, and Holland Township, Michigan, these facilities are designated to process waste obtained from dairy farms. Embracing a circular economy model, these units are poised to play a role in fostering the emergence of a low-carbon society.

Utilizing manure feedstock in anaerobic digesters, these production units will generate biogas with a total production capacity of 74 GWh. Subsequently, the digested waste will be returned to meet the agricultural needs of the farms, thereby endorsing a circular economy approach to waste management. Employing Air Liquide’s exclusive gas separation membrane technology, the biogas will undergo purification to yield RNG, which will then be seamlessly integrated into the natural gas grid.

Air Liquide has cultivated expertise across the entire biomethane value chain, commencing from biogas production from waste to its refinement into biomethane for injection into gas grids or compression/liquefaction for storage and transportation to customers. Presently, Air Liquide operates 26 operational biomethane production units worldwide, boasting a yearly production capacity of approximately 1.8 TWh.

Armelle Levieux, a member of Air Liquide’s Executive Committee and Vice President of Innovation, emphasized the significance of the new biomethane production units, stating that they bolster Air Liquide's footprint in the U.S. RNG production market. Levieux highlighted that these investments align with the priorities outlined in Air Liquide's strategic plan, ADVANCE 2025, which integrates growth with a sustainable future. She emphasized that biomethane is among the solutions developed by Air Liquide to facilitate the decarbonization efforts of its customers in the industry and transport sectors.

Renewable natural gas (RNG) is a type of gas suitable for pipelines and entirely compatible with traditional natural gas, making it usable in natural gas vehicles. RNG essentially consists of biogas, which is the gas produced from the decomposition of organic matter, processed to meet specific purity criteria.

As a global leader in gases, technologies, and services, Air Liquide operates in 72 countries, employing over 67,800 individuals, and serves more than 4 million customers and patients. Oxygen, nitrogen, and hydrogen are essential components of Air Liquide's offerings, supporting critical needs in healthcare, industry, and beyond.

By embracing innovation and technological expertise, Air Liquide is positioned to address global challenges such as climate change and the energy transition. With revenue exceeding 27.5 billion euros in 2023, Air Liquide continues to demonstrate its commitment to advancing sustainable solutions while driving economic growth and creating value for stakeholders worldwide.