Axpo Biomasse AG now operates a biogas processing plant in Aarberg instead of the previous combined heat and power plant. The fermentation plant in Aarberg processes around 20,000 tonnes of regional biomass into electricity and natural fertiliser every year. The biogas produced in this process is now processed into biomethane and fed directly into the existing gas network.
Previously, the biogas was used to generate electricity and heat. The changeover is intended to make more efficient use of the energy content of the biomass used. “In this way, we are making another important contribution to the decarbonisation of the energy supply and to regional value creation,” says Daniel Gobbo, Head of Axpo’s Biomass Business Unit.
The biomethane produced is purchased by Energie Wasser Bern (ewb), the energy supplier for the city of Bern. According to the announcement, ewb has signed a contract for the complete purchase of the production. Transport will be via the Seelandgas AG network. For possible surplus quantities, Gasverbund Mittelland (GVM) is also building a pressure boosting station so that the gas can be fed into the Gasverbund Mittelland high-pressure network.
By purchasing the gas, Energie Wasser Bern is contributing to the promotion of biogas production in Switzerland. “By purchasing gas from the Aarberg plant, ewb is consistently pursuing its strategy for a CO2-neutral energy future and strengthening sustainable security of supply,” says Marcel Ottenkamp, Head of Energy Management at ewb.
