Verbrec Ltd (ASX: VBC) is proud to have played a key role in the successful delivery of New Zealand’s first large-scale biogas upgrade project, enabling biomethane, a type of renewable gas to flow for the first time through a Firstgas pipeline in Reporoa.
In partnership with Clarus business, First Renewables, Verbrec delivered the biogas upgrade balance of plant design. This project integrated equipment to upgrade biogas, from Ecogas’ Organics Processing Facility in Reporoa, into Firstgas’ existing natural gas pipeline system, ensuring the safe injection of high-quality biomethane. Verbrec provided Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) and Detailed Design for the biogas upgrading facility, as well as for the critical delivery points at Broadlands, Taupo, and Reporoa, along with the pipeline connecting the facility to the gas network.
This historic achievement marks a significant milestone for both First Renewables and New Zealand’s journey towards a sustainable, low-carbon energy future. It showcases the potential of biogas to support a circular economy by transforming organic waste into a renewable energy source.
Verbrec Chief Executive Mark Read highlighted the company’s contributions to achieving this milestone:
“We are delighted to have worked with First Renewables on the successful completion of this transformative project,” Mr Read said.
“Our team in New Zealand provided design services that enabled the integration of upgraded biogas into New Zealand’s gas pipeline system, ensuring the safe injection of high-quality biomethane,” he said.
Mr. Read further acknowledged the commitment of First Renewables and Ecogas:
“They are driving real change by enhancing New Zealand’s energy supply while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Their vision and proactive steps are setting a standard for the energy sector.”
According to First Renewables, initial estimates demonstrate that the Ecogas facility alone can supply enough renewable gas to power up to 7,200 homes, while also reducing CO₂ emissions by 11,000 tonnes per year*.
Renewable gas or biomethane, is chemically identical to conventional natural gas but is sourced from organic waste, making it a critical player in reducing carbon emissions across various sectors. It can be used for heating, electricity generation, and even transportation.
Verbrec is a leading engineering, asset management, operations & maintenance, training, and mining technology service provider that supports customers across Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea.
First Renewables and Firstgas are part of Clarus. Clarus is one of New Zealand’s largest energy Groups and First Renewables is leading the renewable gas programme. Firstgas connects over 300,000 homes and businesses with natural gas through its gas distribution and high-pressure transmission network.
