Last December 16, GRDF southeast highlighted the dynamism of department of Ain in matters of green gas. This special day was an opportunity to discover the joint efforts of farmers, a roaster and a local elected official, all engaged in energy transition.
In Ain, the local biogas sector is being structured
First stop in Viriat, at Bastien Mercier, farmer and partner of the SAS Jugnon Biogazlaunched four years ago and which brings together six agricultural operations. THE biomethane product is injected into the gas distribution network of the agglomeration of Bourg-en-Bresse operated by GRDF.
Sébastien Bertillot, site manager, explains: “Our methanization unit produces renewable energy from agricultural waste, which helps to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and limit greenhouse gas emissions.”
So, 14 million kilowatt hours of renewable gas are produced per year, or the equivalent of the annual consumption of 2,300 new gas-heated homes. Although the initial investment was significant, the project is profitable in the long term.
“The sale of biomethane makes it possible to generate stable income and support local agricultural activity, develops Sébastien Bertillot. For us, it’s 40% of turnover.” Furthermore, the creation of a local biogas sector generates jobs. Thus, two positions were created within Jugnon Biogaz.
Green gas, a driver for the local economy in Ain
Second stop at Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne. Under the leadership of its mayor, Patrick Mathias, the town has chosen to use green gas to heat your public buildings : town hall, schools and gymnasium.
“By consuming locally produced green gas, we kill two birds with one stone: we reduce our energy bill, we preserve the environment and we support local agriculture. It is an investment in the future of our municipality”,testifies Patrick Mathias.
The elected official emphasizes that his municipality is not the only one to have made such a choice. “We are one of the 80 communes in Aindin out of the 392 to have made this choice.” There are 550 public tertiary buildings heated with biogas.
In Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne, a more sustainable café thanks to biogas
Finally, it was David Gobert, roaster at his establishment Les Cafés Dagobert, who testified. Also installed at Châtillon-sur-Chalaronneit uses green gas to power its ovens. A logical decision for the entrepreneur who has already chosen 100% organic and 100% fair trade coffee under the Fair For Life label. This company thus highlights a sustainable and local production approach.
“Switching to green gas was not an easy decision. But we are convinced that this investment is essential for the future.” estimates David Gobert.The roaster notes a enthusiasm for this choice. “The feedback is very positive: our customers appreciate our approach and we are proud to contribute to a more sustainable future”.
These testimonies illustrate the environmental and economic impact of a local biogas sector. “There are eight methanization sites in Ain which produce 10% green gas at the moment, we plan to multiply this number by five by 2030” concludes, confident, Guilhem Armanetdirector of GRDF southeast.
