O papel central do biometano para a descarbonização da economia brasileira e os desafios para seu escoamento

Abstract

The article discusses the strategic role of biomethane in the decarbonization of the Brazilian economy. Produced from the purification of biogas from urban and agro-industrial waste, biomethane is considered a drop-in fuel and can be directly integrated into the natural gas network. The text presents data on installed capacity and production potential in Brazil, which could supply up to 20% of the national natural gas demand. Furthermore, the use of biomethane can prevent the emission of up to 112 million tons of CO2e/year, significantly contributing to meeting the country’s climate goals. The article also highlights the logistical challenges of transporting biomethane, especially in regions far from existing gas pipelines, concentrated along the coast. The proposed solution includes the use of virtual gas pipelines and the creation of sustainable corridors. The text highlights several public policies, such as the “Fuel of the Future” Law, the Basic Sanitation Legal Framework, and the New Gas Law, which aim to promote the production, distribution, and consumption of biomethane. Renewing the truck fleet is also highlighted as a potential solution, if properly addressed, to expand biomethane use in the country.