Toward an Integrated Approach – A Conceptual Framework for Complex Biomethane Development

This research presents a conceptual framework for an interdisciplinary approach to national biomethane development, addressing the sector’s complexity, gaps and the need for systemic analysis. Biomethane plays a key role in decarbonizing existing gas infrastructure, supporting a circular economy, and strengthening energy security by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. However, national-level uncertainties require both comprehensive and targeted strategies. The study highlights the value of establishing a centralized data bank gathering information from biogas and biomethane plants, natural gas infrastructure, connection cost estimates, and technical configurations. System dynamics modelling is proposed as a method to simulate the various elements of the biomethane system. Additionally, tools such as life cycle assessment (LCA) and multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) are identified to assess environmental, economic and technological impacts, therefore facilitating informed decision making. This creates theoretical integrated approach. TOPSIS is used in practical test scenario to evaluate balanced gaseous energy source. Test scenario results calculations showed biomethane as the most favourable scenario (score 0.68) across multiple sustainability and economic criteria, followed by hydrogen (0.45), which shows strong decarbonization potential but faces maturity and risk challenges, while natural gas (0.35) ranks lowest, reflecting its limited role in long-term sustainable energy transitions and being impacted by low climate performance. By applying interdisciplinary approach, it could help develop an efficient, flexible and sustainable biomethane sector.