Title:
Integrating Biomethane into Natural Gas Systems: A Bibliometric Review from Regulatory Lessons from International Gas Markets
Author(s):
Vieira Maia de Sousa, L., Silva Lora, E.E., Silveira, E.A.
Document(s):
Paper
Poster
Abstract:
The global energy transition requires a strategic reconfiguration of natural gas infrastructure to ensure energy security, economic competitiveness, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction. In this context, natural gas acts as a transitional fuel, while biomethane emerges as a renewable and scalable alternative capable of reducing net emissions and expanding regional energy access. Regulatory and institutional frameworks play a central role in enabling this integration, although they vary significantly among countries. In Brazil, the Gas Law, Law No. 14.134/2021, introduced unbundling, open access to essential infrastructure, and regulatory equivalence between biomethane and natural gas, provided that technical specifications defined by the National Agency of Petroleum, Natural Gas and Biofuels (ANP) are met. Despite these advances, limited pipeline coverage and regulatory heterogeneity still constrain market expansion. This study aims to identify scientific trends, institutional lessons, and strategic regulatory guidelines for integrating biomethane into natural gas systems in Brazil. A bibliometric and systemic literature review was conducted using the ProKnow-C methodology, while VOSviewer was used for bibliometric network visualization. The results indicate that successful integration depends on three institutional dimensions: harmonized gas quality standards, transparent access to infrastructure, and regulatory incentives for biomethane production and network connection. International experiences suggest that recognizing renewable gases as integral components of gas markets is essential for accelerating biomethane deployment.
Keywords:
biomethane, natural gas, regulatory frameworks, energy transition
Topic:
Biomass, Bio-based Products and Bioenergy Integration
Subtopic:
Biomass integration into energy systems
Event:
34th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
3AV.6.6
Pages:
419 - 424
ISBN:
978-88-89407-27-1
Paper DOI:
10.5071/34thEUBCE2026-3AV.6.6
Price:
FREE
