(573x) Directing Climate Mitigation throughout Energy Transformation: Feasibility of Synthetic Methane Integrated with Direct Air Capture

With an increase in environmental awareness, energy transformation toward a sustainable energy economy has received much interest. The hydrogen (H₂) economy with green H₂ is under consideration for the transformation, but there are several challenges to be overcome. In this context, further conversion of green hydrogen into carbon-based transportation fuel based on the carbon hydrogenation process has been explored. The representative fuel is methane which is a prime element of natural gas. Natural gas is a primary energy resource widely consumed in households and industries around the world, and it has extensive networks for distribution to end-users. In line with this trend, this research aims to investigate the feasibility of methane synthesis integrated with water electrolysis and direct air capture for negative carbon emission. The synthesized methane may become an alternative to conventional fossil-based natural gas; then, it also utilizes the existing infrastructures for supply. The case study objecting several countries is performed to identify whether it can have the economic and environmental potential for climate mitigation. Further, this study aims to provide comprehensive guidelines in the aspects of economic and environmental competitiveness, global challenges, and future directions.