29: From Ancient Organism to Renewable Energy Superhero: Electrochaea Synthesis of Synthetic Methane

In today's episode, I am speaking to Doris Hafenbradls, CTO and Managing Director of Electrochaea. Doris has enjoyed a successful career as scientist and corporate executive in the biotech and pharma industry in the US and Europe. She joined Electrochaea from Axxam, a leading provider of integrated discovery services for the life sciences industry, where she was responsible for the company's discovery services activities. Doris dedicated her doctoral research in mircobiology to the study of the microorganism archaea at the University of Regensburg.

What does Electrochae produce? The company converts renewable energy (solar and wind) and the industrial waste product carbon dioxide into grid-quality synthetic Methane with the goal to replace natural gas as energy source and storage. They use Archaea - an ancient, single-celled microorganisms that survive in extreme conditions to synthesize methane. 

In May 2021, the International Energy Agency (IEA) released its roadmap to help the world get to net zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050. Net Zero by 2050 recommends a baseline target of 10 percent for synthetic methane in the natural gas flow by 2050.

The company has been founded in 2014 by Dr. Laurens Mets, Professor at the University of Chicago, and Mich Hein. They have 3 pilot plants up and running and now raising for the next round to expand. 

I learned a lot in this conversation about the power to gas principle and the technology behind. This episode is something for persons who are interested in renewable energy, carbon capture and utilization and the circular economy of carbon dioxide. 

The following description was generated by AI :) 

Discover how the invisible power of microorganisms can revolutionize our energy systems as Doris Hafenbradl of Electrochaea unveils the potential of renewable synthetic methane. In an era crying out for sustainable solutions, we're joined by an expert who is turning the tables on traditional energy storage and utilization. Harnessing the ancient prowess of archaea, Electrochaea's technology is not just a beacon of innovation but a pragmatic bridge to a greener future, syncing the ebb and flow of renewable energy production with our insatiable demand.

This episode is a journey through the environmental and economic impacts of a truly transformative technology, with real-world applications already taking root from Denmark to Maine. As we explore with Doris, the process of repurposing excess renewable energy into a viable, storable commodity is not merely a theoretical marvel but a practical stride towards a circular economy. Synthetic methane stands poised to redefine energy intensity and costs, proving that the green premium is a small price to pay for a sustainable and carbon-conscious future.

We wrap up with a candid discussion about the hurdles and prospects within the renewable gas market. Doris guides us through the maze of regulatory requirements, the importance of subsidies, and the potential of voluntary markets, sharing Electrochaea's achievements and aspirations. Their innovative 12-megawatt project in Denmark and ongoing feasibility studies in Canada underscore the scalability of this venture. It's a conversation that leaves us optimistic about a future where synthetic methane could become the norm, providing a cleaner and renewable alternative to fossil fuels.

Please check out show notes and background information: www.sustainnow.ch
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