Is Your AD Site Biomethane-Ready? A Practical Planning Checklist

With energy markets changing and revenue models evolving, many AD operators are reassessing how they use their biogas.

For some sites, that means asking whether biomethane could unlock greater long-term value than traditional CHP alone.

This blog will take you through a practical checklist to help you decide whether your AD site is ready to make that move, and what you need to consider before doing so.

Why consider biomethane?

Most AD sites were designed to use biogas in a combined heat and power (CHP) system, generating electricity and useful heat.

That model still works well for many operators. But with growing demand for grid-injected biomethane and renewable gas certificates, upgrading biogas instead of using it solely in CHP could offer:

• New revenue streams
• Greater flexibility
• Long-term market resilience
• Improved return on your biogas production

The key question is whether your site is ready.

1. How strong is your biogas production?

Before considering upgrading, start with the basics.

• Is your gas output consistent?
• Is methane concentration stable?
• Does your feedstock mix fluctuate?
• Are you currently flaring or curtailing excess gas?

Upgrading systems perform best with steady, predictable gas volumes. If your production varies significantly, that will affect system sizing and financial returns.

A clear understanding of your current performance is essential.

2. What are your long-term objectives?

Every AD site is different.

Are you looking to:

• Maximise on-site energy efficiency?
• Increase export revenue?
• Improve energy security?
• Create a hybrid model combining CHP and upgrading?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Your decision should align with your commercial goals and appetite for investment.

3. Can your site support grid injection?

Biomethane production introduces new infrastructure requirements.

You’ll need to consider:

• Proximity to the gas grid
• Connection capacity and timelines
• Upgrading plant footprint
• Compression and metering equipment
• Gas quality compliance

Connection costs and approval times can significantly impact project viability, so early investigation is critical.

4. What role will your existing CHP play?

Moving toward biomethane doesn’t automatically mean replacing your CHP.

In many cases, CHP still provides:

• Reliable on-site heat
• Backup generation
• Flexibility during maintenance
• An outlet for surplus gas

Review the condition, efficiency and age of your current engines. A hybrid approach may offer the strongest commercial case.

5. Will the numbers stack up?

As with any investment, the financial model must be robust.

You’ll need to assess:

• Capital expenditure for upgrading equipment and grid connection
• Operating costs, including maintenance and energy use
• Revenue projections and contract structures
• Sensitivity to market changes

Scenario modelling, CHP-only vs hybrid vs full upgrading, will give you clarity on long-term returns.

6. Is your team operationally ready?

Upgrading systems introduce new responsibilities.

Consider:

• Operator training
• Maintenance requirements
• Monitoring and reporting
• Compliance and certification processes

Technical readiness is just as important as financial readiness.

From Evaluation to implementation

Transitioning toward biomethane doesn’t have to mean a complete shift in how your site operates. For many AD operators, it’s about building flexibility and protecting long-term revenue.

By reviewing your production profile, infrastructure, commercial objectives and operational readiness, you can make a confident and informed decision about your next step.

Combining CHP with biomethane upgrading may offer the best of both worlds, maintaining on-site efficiency while unlocking new revenue opportunities.

To discuss your next steps and explore the right solution for your AD site, contact our team at sales@2-g.com or call 01928 718533.