Biogas: Risk Perception Assessment of Biological Methanation as an Energy and a Carbon Source

This study investigated benefits, challenges and risks associated with the implementation of Power-to-Gas (PtG) in the biogas value chain, as perceived by stakeholders of the German biogas sector (BGS). The analysis included the use of biomethane as an energy carrier and as a carbon source for platform chemicals. From a random and purposive sampling, 27 participants representing the following sectors were interviewed: science (9), industry (7), politics (5), and associations (6). Benefits were described mostly from an economic and a technology-promoter perspective and particularly emphasized by actors from science and industry.

Stakeholders considered socio-political aspects (e.g., missing political support and societal stigmatization of biogas) as the most critical challenges. Interviewees lessened the relevance and likelihood of potential detrimental environmental impacts from the BGS linked with PtG or from increased demand of biomass in a biomethane-based market. They strongly relied on existing regulations and safety guidelines to handle risks. Stakeholders considered politicians as main responsible to deal with potential risks and challenges. We conclude that in shifting responsibility to other actors, stakeholders simplify the complexity of dealing with potentially adverse effects from the BGS, ignoring their roles in risk management. Interviewees exhibited a typical hierarchist attitude, as described in the Cultural Theory of Risk. This stand is associated with a problematic bias acknowledging and managing risks. Awareness on environmental and safety risks and the influence of stakeholder perception on risk management should be promoted among stakeholders of the BGS. It is crucial to enable a dialogue among diverse interest groups to comprehend differing conceptions of technological risks, benefits and envisioned management approaches. This approach facilitates informed decision-making and ultimately promotes legitimacy for this technology.