The Feasibility of Liquefied Methane as an Alternative Fuel in Europe and China

Abstract

Purpose

This chapter outlines the potential market of methane (especially LNG) as vehicle fuel in Europe and China.

Methodology/approach

A comprehensive report on the existing framework in terms of market capacity, regulations, and incentives is presented. Moreover, the feasibility of using biogas as environmental friendly source gas is considered.

Findings

The transport sector represents a major element in the global balance of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Natural gas is considered the alternative fuel that, in the short-medium term, can best substitute conventional fuels in order to reduce their environmental impact, because it is readily available at a competitive price, using technologies that are already in widespread use. It can be used as compressed gas (CNG) or in the liquid phase (LNG). The former is more suitable for light vehicles, while the latter for heavy-duty vehicles. Some barriers need to be overcome for the diffusion of this alternative fuel, especially concerning the supply problem. The incentive policy has been shown to cover a major influence in the feasibility evaluation.

Originality/value

This work shows the state of the art of natural gas as fuel, especially from biogas source, in Europe and China and assesses the incentive scheme necessary to make liquefied biomethane feasible on the basis of the existing scenario in Italy.

Citation

Spitoni, M., Polonara, F. and Arteconi, A. (2016), "The Feasibility of Liquefied Methane as an Alternative Fuel in Europe and China", Spigarelli, F., Curran, L. and Arteconi, A. (Ed.) China and Europe’s Partnership for a More Sustainable World, Emerald Group Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 209-231. https://doi.org/10.1108/978-1-78635-332-020161010