Biogas as a Key Element in Mexico's Energy Transition

There has been an extensive debate on the energy transition, including the concept of a just energy transition, which underlines that each country has a specific case linked to its level of development, not only in energy matters but also in meeting the basic needs of society.

In this context, it is important to reflect on the distribution of the national energy matrix and its use, in order to visualize how migration toward greener or cleaner energies can be achieved, facilitating the aforementioned just energy transition.

The dependence on fossil fuels is evident, as well as the need to genuinely reduce their share, accompanied by the search for and introduction of new energy alternatives. Before replacing them, it is crucial to optimize their use. Therefore, energy efficiency plans must become a reality for all actors involved in the country’s energy development. However, this initiative is not yet reflected.

At the same time, the question arises as to why more emphasis has not been placed on the energy transition strategy through natural gas. While some sectors may miss this stage, others could benefit economically, socially and environmentally in the short term, such as the mobility sector. Converting existing vehicles to natural gas significantly reduces CO₂ emissions and virtually eliminates particulate matter that contributes to environmental contingencies in large cities. The limited presence of natural gas refueling stations compared to gasoline and diesel stations reflects the lack of exploration of this opportunity.

It is essential that initiatives are not isolated but complementary. In recent years, energy vectors such as biogas and green hydrogen have been the subject of study and development, repositioning Mexico as a country with significant opportunities in both areas.

Biogas, produced as a result of the anaerobic digestion of organic matter, is a gaseous biofuel composed mainly of methane and carbon dioxide, but can contain other compounds depending on the production or extraction process. Its purification produces biomethane, a biofuel with a high concentration of methane, similar to and fully compatible with natural gas. In addition, during the biogas to biomethane conversion stages, biofertilizers and CO₂ can be obtained, which can be valorized through other treatments.

The existing natural gas infrastructure in Mexico could be used for the use of biomethane, since the natural gas distribution network is an excellent option for possible blending. In addition, biomethane, like natural gas, can be compressed and used for vehicles or transported through virtual pipelines to areas that lack natural gas infrastructure. Because of these similarities, biomethane is also known as renewable natural gas or green natural gas.

This process can be considered an example of a circular economy that impacts several sectors and offers important environmental benefits by contributing to the reduction of methane emissions, a greenhouse gas with a much greater warming potential than carbon dioxide.

It is important to highlight that biogas and biomethane are not the complete solution, but they could cover a significant part of Mexico's current natural gas consumption, with positive effects on the reduction of CO₂ equivalent emissions and the decarbonization of some sectors.

The introduction of biomethane in the energy matrix can be encouraged by the existence of actions necessary for its implementation, which mainly involve the generation of guidelines and agreements, as well as the adaptation of existing regulations. This is reflected in the update of the Transition Strategy to Promote the Use of Cleaner Technologies and Fuels, which begins to emphasize biogas. Although many actions remain to be taken, there is hope that biomethane can become one of the key elements in Mexico's just energy transition.

The energy transition is a complex process that requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. Each country faces unique challenges on its path to a more sustainable and just energy system. It is critical that energy transition policies and strategies consider the socioeconomic and environmental realities of each nation, as well as the needs and concerns of its citizens.

In addition to reducing dependence on fossil fuels, the energy transition also presents significant opportunities to boost economic development, promote technological innovation and improve people's quality of life. The adoption of renewable energy sources and clean technologies not only helps mitigate climate change, but also creates green jobs and strengthens energy security.

In this regard, it is crucial to promote the diversification of the energy matrix and encourage research and development of innovative and sustainable energy solutions. Investment in clean energy infrastructure and technologies is essential to accelerate the transition to a cleaner and

more resilient energy future.The energy transition is a global imperative that requires urgent and coordinated action at the national and international levels. By embracing energy diversification and innovation, we can build a more sustainable and equitable future for generations to come.