Emvolon, an MIT spin-off that converts greenhouse gases into carbon-negative fuels, has announced a new partnership with Montauk Renewables. The collaboration aims to develop several biogas-to-green methanol projects across the United States to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The joint venture plans to produce up to 50,000 metric tons of green methanol annually by 2030. The first project will be at the Atascocita Humble Renewable Energy (HRE) facility in Humble, Texas. This project will use Emvolon’s proprietary technology to convert flared gas into low-carbon, transportable methanol, generating approximately 6,000 metric tons per year.
Additional projects are being discussed within Montauk’s development pipeline to expand capacity further. The partnership intends to broaden biogas applications beyond traditional uses, supporting industries like shipping and aviation that are seeking sustainable fuel options.
Sean McClain, President and CEO of Montauk, said that this collaboration significantly enhances biogas utilization. He explained that the project leverages waste streams from existing facilities and supports efforts to decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors.
The partnership is timely, as recent regulations from the International Maritime Organization require ships over 5,000 gross tons to achieve net-zero emissions. This regulation is expected to increase demand for green methanol, projected to reach 14 million metric tons globally by 2030.
Emvolon’s CEO, Dr. Emmanuel Kasseris, stated that their platform allows onsite conversion of methane into transportable green chemicals. He emphasized that this process helps eliminate flare emissions and turns waste gases into valuable, sustainable fuels.
This joint effort aims to accelerate the energy transition by transforming waste gases into clean, market-ready fuels. It supports environmental goals while creating new revenue opportunities for industrial operators.
