TOBIAS

The Methanol Generation from Biogas

Background

The TOBIAS Project aims to demonstrate a biogas-to-methanol (BtM) process at TRL 7 using a modular unit at a Danish biogas plant. The project focuses on developing and optimizing advanced reforming catalysts that minimize carbon buildup and ensure high energy efficiency when biogas is reformed to syngas. The methanol produced can also be upgraded to sustainable aviation fuel, supporting Denmark’s transition toward energy-efficient, renewable fuel production.

Objectives

Develop 10 kg of an innovative biogas reforming catalyst and test it in the demonstration pilot plant.
Produce 1000 L of raw methanol to validate the catalyst’s efficiency, stability, and operational lifetime.
Prepare a technical report defining evaluation criteria for the optimal large-scale implementation of biogas-to-methanol conversion.

Expected results/impact

The TOBIAS project develops and optimizes an advanced catalyst that reduces carbon buildup, enabling biogas reforming at lower temperatures while maintaining high conversion efficiency and syngas quality. By integrating the process in an electrified furnace powered by renewable energy, the project significantly lowers energy demand and CO₂ emissions.

Expected results:

Improved operational efficiency and reduced environmental impact through lower carbon buildup and energy use.
Demonstration of cost-effective, greener syngas production as a pathway to methanol.
A major step toward establishing Denmark’s first energy-efficient biogas-to-methanol plants, supporting national Power-to-X goals and reducing fossil fuel dependency.
Opportunity for decentralized biogas use by enabling plant owners to convert biogas into high-value methanol through a compact, easily deployable small-scale BtM system.