World first: Engie produces renewable gas from non-recyclable solid waste

The project

Co-financed by ADEME, Engie’s Gaya platform is part of the R&D work carried out in line with the targets set by the Energy Transition Act for Green Growth. This aims to reduce by 50% the quantities of landfill waste by 2025 compared to 2010 and by 30% the consumption of fossil fuels by 2030 compared to 2012 to preserve the environment and strengthen France’s energy independence.

A world first

One year after producing biomethane from forest biomass, Gaya has achieved a world first with its first cubic metres of synthetic methane produced from solid recovered fuels (SRF): waste composed mainly of wood, paper, cardboard and plastic from waste from economic activities and previously destined for landfill, due to a lack of recycling channels.

A future project at Le Havre

This major scientific breakthrough paves the way for the construction of an industrial plant at Le Havre. Thus, from 2026, the Salamandre project could produce gas from nearly 70,000 tonnes of non-recyclable waste per year, producing up to 150 GWh of renewable gas, i.e. the consumption of 670 urban buses.

Apave’s missions

To carry out this project and ensure its safety, the Apave Lyon teams were chosen to monitor the environmental impact of the Lyon facility. Our test and measurement experts take samples and make analyses on site to check the quality of drinking water and ensure that waste water discharges do not contribute to environmental pollution. They take measurements of atmospheric emissions and noise levels to protect the health and safety of people and the environment.