On December 18, 2024, in Clermont-Ferrand, Waga Energy and VALTOM commissioned the first WAGABOX® unit in Europe to simultaneously valorize two sources of biogas to produce high-quality injectable Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) for the grid. This innovative project combines biogas from the Puy-Long landfill site and the Vernéa waste-to-energy plant, optimizing local resources and reinforcing the integration of RNG into the energy mix. It demonstrates the potential of synergies between waste management and methanization to maximize the production of renewable energy at controlled costs.
Until now, there has been no specific tariff in Europe for this type of production, making its development uncertain.
The commissioning of this innovative system, the only one of its kind in Europe, is the culmination of four years of consultation between VALTOM and the French government, to bring about a change in regulations which, until now, did not allow RNG to be produced by mixing biogas from an anaerobic digestion plant with that from a landfill site.
A major step forward, demonstrating that innovation can go hand in hand with competitiveness.
The WAGABOX® unit can produce up to 51,000 MMBtu of RNG per year, covering the energy needs of around 2,000 households or powering 60 buses running on BioGNV. By replacing fossil natural gas with RNG, this installation contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, avoiding the equivalent of 2,500 tonnes of CO2 every year.
This innovative project for the production of local, renewable energy not only contributes to the region’s energy sovereignty, but is also a perfect example of a circular economy.
“The commissioning of this innovative facility – the first of its kind in Europe – culminates four years of consulting with governmental departments to change a regulation, which until now, did not enable RNG production by combining biogas from an anaerobic digestion plant and a landfill. Our determination and support from the Puy-de-Dôme Prefecture have paid off and will help VALTOM accelerate the rollout of renewable energies throughout the region, for the benefit of each and every resident.”
Laurent Battut, President, VALTOM
“We are proud and thrilled of this partnership with VALTOM, serving both the region and our planet. The unit’s commissioning on the date announced at the time of signing the contract illustrates our industrial know-how and our ability to undertake complex projects with a fast turnaround. This pioneering, unique European initiative is a testament to the potential synergies between an anaerobic digestion plant and a landfill site, when the latter is fitted with a WAGABOX® unit and connected to the gas grid.”
Mathieu Lefebvre, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Waga Energy