Electrolytic synthetic natural gas (e-SNG) and renewable natural gas (RNG) offer a low-carbon alternative to fossil natural gas, seamlessly integrating into existing gas infrastructure.

At Johnson Matthey (JM), we apply over a century of expertise in synthetic gas technology to provide efficient, scalable, and commercially proven solutions for synthetic natural gas production.

What are synthetic and renewable natural gases?

e-SNG, also known as e-methane or e-NG, is produced by reacting electrolytic (green) hydrogen with captured CO2 from industrial and biogenic sources. Renewable natural gas, on the other hand, can also be derived from upgrading biogas, commonly produced via anaerobic digestion.

Both gases are chemically equivalent to natural gas, enabling a smooth transition to renewable energy without the need for new infrastructure.

By replacing fossil-derived natural gas with synthetic and renewable natural gases, industries and energy providers can significantly reduce carbon emissions while maintaining energy security and operational efficiency.

Supporting the energy transition with synthetic and renewable natural gases

As the world transitions to sustainable energy, synthetic and renewable natural gases plays a crucial role in transforming the global gas supply. Governments, industries, and energy providers are increasingly seeking viable alternatives to fossil natural gas that maintain grid reliability and energy security while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Key drivers for adoption include:

Infrastructure compatibility

Both gases can be integrated seamlessly into existing natural gas networks, avoiding costly infrastructure overhauls.

Renewable energy integration

e-SNG enables surplus renewable electricity to be converted into storable, transportable gas, supporting grid stability and energy storage needs.

Energy security

Diversifies energy supply by enabling domestic and renewable gas production, reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels.

Johnson Matthey’s expertise in methanation

With over 100 licensed SNG plants and more than a century of research in the field, JM is a trusted leader in power-to-gas solutions. Our advanced methanation technology supports:

  • Flexible feedstock conversion: Accommodating CO2, CO, and gasified biomass.

  • Scalability: From small to large-scale commercial plants

  • Global deployment: Successfully implemented across multiple geographies

Our DAVY ePowerGasTM licensed methanation flowsheet, combined with our proven methanation catalysts, ensures reliable, efficient, and cost-effective production of RNG and eSNG.

Discover our methanation technologies

Johnson Matthey eSNG RNG

Innovating with our methanation technology

JM’s proven methanation technology is being applied to the circular production of critical raw materials as part of the MECALO project. By leveraging our expertise in synthetic gas production and power-to-x technologies, we are enabling the decarbonisation of essential industries.

As a trusted partner in the MECALO consortium, JM continues to demonstrate its commitment to sustainability, delivering innovative solutions that support a cleaner, more secure future.

 

Read more about MECALO

Partner with JM

Johnson Matthey is your trusted partner in e-SNG and RNG production. Speak to our team to discover how our innovative methanation technology can help you achieve your sustainability goals.

Get in touch

Explore our products and services