Energy experts from across Europe gathered at KEY – The Energy Transition Expo 2025 in Rimini to discuss technologies, services, and integrated solutions for energy efficiency and renewable energy. One of the event’s spotlights was the sustainability of Renewable Fuels of Non-Biological Origin (RFNBOs) and the policies shaping their large-scale deployment. In a dedicated session on environmental, economic, and social sustainability, ENEA brought together researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore innovative solutions for decarbonising the energy system through RFNBOs.
Stefano Proietti (ISINNOVA) brought a European research perspective to the discussion by presenting insights from the BIOMETHAVERSE project, which is pioneering synthetic methane production pathways in biogas plants. While biomethane itself is not classified as an RFNBO (as it traditionally comes from biological sources), among the innovative biomethane production pathways piloted by BIOMETHAVERSE are advanced In-Situ and Ex-Situ Electromethanogenesis (EMG) and Thermochemical Methanation (ETM) technologies that qualify as RFNBOs when biomethane is produced using renewable hydrogen and captured CO₂.
Proietti stressed the need for a comprehensive strategy in advancing biomethane production, emphasising three key aspects:
✅ Diversification – BIOMETHAVERSE is trialling five different biomethane production pathways (including synthetic ones) across France, Greece, Italy, Sweden, and Ukraine.
✅ Sustainability – Technologies are assessed for environmental, economic, and social impact, ensuring real-world feasibility.
✅ Scaling Up – By analysing replicability and strategic planning, BIOMETHAVERSE aims to facilitate the widespread adoption of biomethane and synthetic methane technologies in Europe.
The session concluded with a roundtable discussion on policy measures to accelerate the deployment of RFNBOs and biomethane, highlighting the crucial role of innovation in achieving Europe’s climate goals.
