Biomethane rises as alternate source of energy in Brazil

Itaipu Binacional, the world's biggest generator of hydroelectric energy, founded the first biomethane plant that uses a mixture of sewage, grass clippings, and restaurant leftover food as raw material.

The technology is entirely developed in Foz do Iguaçu, in the southern state of Paraná, where the power plant controlled by both Brazil and Paraguay is located. Before its construction, Brazil's biomethane was solely produced from animal waste.

“We remove the waste that could potentially become a pollutant and we turn it into sustainable, renewable energy. We give nutrients back to the planet, so we're imitating nature with a process that's completely natural,” says Paulo Schmidt, adviser for renewable energy at Itaipu Binacional.

To meet part of the plant's demand for electric energy, a photovoltaic micro-plant was built nearby. According to electric engineer Thiago Lippo, from the Itaipu Technological Park, the project is also part of the company's research and development efforts, and will be monitored along with the biomethane plant.

The demonstration unit is capable of producing 4 thousand cubic meters of biomethane per month and currently fuels 70 vehicles—a number that can rise up to a monthly 300. According to scientists at the International Center on Renewable Energy – Biogás (CIBiogás), a kilometer's worth of biomethane costs $0.08, compared to $0.12 for ethanol.

Business model

The surveillance of results achieved by the new plant aims to consolidate a business model suitable to be replicated throughout the region, and subsequently across the country. The firm plans to develop its technology and make it available for field workers and municipalities. “When Itaipu first came here, it flooded fertile land, making the production of clean energy possible. So it's only fair we should give the region something in return,” said Iraipu Director-General for Brazil Luiz Fernando Vianna.

*The reporter was a guest invited by Itaipu Binacional.

Translated by Fabrício Ferreira