Renewable Natural Gas Through Electrocatalytic CO2 Conversion

Lead Proponent

University of Toronto

Project Objectives

The objective of this project is to develop an electrocatalytic based carbon dioxide (CO₂) conversion technology, which can convert captured CO₂ into low carbon intensity synthetic methane (CH₄) using clean electricity and water. This novel technology approach has the potential to reduce GHG emissions from the production and end use of natural gas.

Expected Results

This technology could potentially reduce GHG emissions from Canada’s upstream natural gas sector converting otherwise vented CO₂ streams into synthetic methane. This would have the combined effect of lowering CO₂ emissions from natural gas processing facilities while increasing methane yield, resulting in lower carbon intensity natural gas.

The project could also create a pathway for captured CO₂ in urban areas where sequestration is not viable. In this case, CO₂ emitted by industrial sources could be captured and converted to low carbon intensity synthetic methane, which would be injected into the local natural gas distribution system.

Anticipated Environmental Benefits: GHG reductions through the conversion of CO₂ into low carbon intensity synthetic methane.