Overview
Our team collaborated with a large utility company to explore the potential opportunities and challenges linked to entering the biomethane production sector.
The Requirement
Our client required a detailed investigation into the existing biomethane market in Ireland. This investigation was required to support executive decision-making. At the time of this project, the biomethane market and national policy landscape were rapidly evolving and several technology trends were emerging. Our objective was to understand and capture these developments and their potential impact on the client in a comprehensive, actionable report.
Engagement
Our team conducted a detailed analysis of published materials and gathered valuable unpublished insights through in-depth interviews with 16 biomethane sector leaders including subject matter experts from industry and academia, technology developers, representatives from government and lobby groups, biomethane champions and peers from other utility companies over a 6-month period.
Throughout the project, we maintained constant communication with the client, integrating their feedback and involving them in interviews when feasible.
Outcomes
The project delivered a comprehensive, actionable report covering the following:
- National and European policy: Provided an overview of existing policies and insights into future developments,
- Technology Considerations: Presented key technological considerations, including an analysis of the biomethane value chain, a review of key technological trends, and analysis of feedstock availability and production.
- Market Overview: Mapped existing and proposed projects in Ireland, identified market players, and showcased relevant case studies,
- Market Considerations: Conducted a detailed analysis of the biomethane market and the valorisation of its by-products,
- Social Perception: Derived insights and lessons learned from similar projects on social context and public perception,
- Risks and Opportunities: Evaluated potential impacts and benefits with a cost-benefit analysis,
- Support Strategies: Developed strategies to help the emerging industry while aligning with organisational goals.
- Recommendations: Concluded with actionable recommendations and next steps for implementation.
