Emvolon, an MIT spin-off focused on transforming greenhouse gas emissions into carbon-negative fuels and chemicals, has announced a partnership with Montauk Renewables, Inc., a renewable energy company that specializes in managing, recovering, and converting biogas from waste into renewable natural gas. Utilizing Emvolon’s patented technology, the initial pilot project will serve as a commercial-scale demonstration for recovering and converting biogas into green methanol. This project is set to occur at Montauk’s renewable gas production facility located at a landfill in Humble, Texas.

Emvolon has developed a technology platform that repurposes car engines into cost-effective, modular chemical plants capable of converting methane in biogas into readily usable, easily transportable liquid green chemicals and fuels, such as green methanol and ammonia. These carbon-negative products can be transported in standard truck containers for use in hard-to-abate sectors, including maritime and aviation. This system allows Montauk to monetize flared tail gas resources at a low cost, without the need for expensive pipeline infrastructure, while also eliminating the greenhouse gas emissions that would result from incinerating these resources.

“After successfully demonstrating our technology at our 5,000 square-foot testing and development facility in Massachusetts, we are now focused on commercially scaling the production of green methanol,” stated Dr. Emmanuel Kasseris, CEO of Emvolon. “We are excited to launch this pilot with Montauk, a leader in renewable energy development that is setting an example for other major corporations to convert landfill biogas into valuable carbon-negative fuels and chemicals. Our technology does not depend on oil pipelines, which reduces scale-up risks, significantly lowers deployment costs, and shortens implementation timelines to just a few months. As a result, we are transforming emissions-producing waste resources into valuable, revenue-generating opportunities.”

The pilot project is designed to produce up to 15,300 gallons of green methanol annually, with the potential to evolve into a full-scale commercial system capable of generating as much as 2,400,000 gallons of methanol each year at the same or similar locations. This transition could significantly expand the production capacity and impact of the technology.

Sean McClain, CEO of Montauk, stated, “For more than three decades, we have specialized in the recovery and processing of biogas from landfills and other non-fossil fuel sources. Partnering with Emvolon presents an exciting opportunity for us to leverage our extensive expertise as one of the largest producers of renewable natural gas in the U.S. Together, we aim to enhance the array of beneficial use products derived from biogas, thereby increasing the economic viability of these environmental stewardship projects. This collaboration not only aligns with our commitment to sustainability but also positions us at the forefront of innovative solutions in the renewable energy sector.”