Creating Renewable Revenue Streams with RNG: Lessons Learned from WRRF RNG Installations

Upgrading biogas to renewable natural gas (RNG) standards for pipeline injection and renewable identification number (RIN) sales is an excellent complement to water reclamation portfolios of renewable products while providing an additional source of revenue. While many utilities utilize digester biogas on-site for cogeneration and thermal demands, many continue to flare excess biogas as a method of disposal. Upgrading biogas to RNG produces valuable natural resource providing additional revenues while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions. The number of municipal RNG installations is unfortunately limited and the steps required for successful implementation can be complex. Wastewater reclamation facilities (WRFs) interested in exploring biogas upgrading options have multiple technologies to choose from and understanding the operational challenges can be overwhelming. Monetization of RINs and revenue generation can be equally complex. However, operating RNG systems can also be challenging from a personnel level. Plant operators routinely accustomed with plant digestion and biogas processes may be reluctant to embrace the potential risks and increased complexity of equipment associated with compressing and purification of flammable gas. This is not uncommon, and in fact, most refinery fires and explosions can be directly attributed to failures in properly training and instructing employees and failure to properly maintain equipment. As a result, optimizing RNG plant installations for successful operation requires communication, increased staff training, adherence to best practices for improving plant safety, and proper preventative maintenance of equipment. This Session provides an overview of the process equipment involved in upgrading biogas to renewable natural gas standards along with lessons learned for the safe installation and operation of RNG systems for maximizing uptime and the sale of RIN credits for supplementing utility revenues