(41a) Renewable Natural Gas (RNG)- Process Safety and Risk Management

Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) is a true game-changer in the energy industry. RNG, which is produced from biogas or bio-methane, can be upgraded to meet the specifications for gas usage in pipelines and can be used for a variety of applications such as electricity generation, thermal applications, compressed natural gas for fuel, and bio-products.

With the world's focus on renewable and alternative energy, RNG projects have been developed at a rapid pace in recent years. The Renewable Fuel Standard and other low carbon fuel standards provide carbon credits in the form of Carbon Intensity (CI), Renewable Identification Numbers (RINs), and tax credits, which have led to many companies, startups, established companies, and partnerships to invest in RNG plants to meet the growing demand for clean energy.

However, with this rapid growth comes unique challenges concerning process safety. The major hazard events associated with RNG include loss of containment of methane with hydrogen sulfide at levels of concern, which can lead to fire, explosion with personnel, and public impacts. Unfortunately, there is a lack of resources concerning OSHA Process Safety Management (PSM) or EPA Risk Management Plan (RMP) applicability, including best practices, standards, and guidelines for these facilities for storage and processing of methane.

This paper aims to address the challenges concerning hazard identification, evaluation, risk management, and process safety engineering best practices for all phases of the RNG projects and operations lifecycle. Let's work together to ensure that RNG projects are developed and operated in a safe and responsible manner.