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In March 2025, a German start-up launched a groundbreaking facility in Mannheim, pioneering the conversion of wastewater into clean methanol. This first-of-its-kind plant utilizes biogas from the local water treatment facility, combining it with green hydrogen to produce methanol. The German government has supported the initiative with a USD 2.2 million grant, recognizing its potential to drive demand for e-methanol in the future. The project exemplifies sustainable innovation, offering a promising alternative fuel source while reducing environmental impact. This advancement could set a precedent for similar facilities worldwide, fostering a cleaner and more efficient energy landscape
- In November 2024, Ohmium International, along with Spirare Energy, Breathe Applied Sciences, and the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), launched India’s first CO₂-to-green methanol facility. The plant utilizes Ohmium’s PEM electrolyzers to generate green hydrogen, which is then combined with captured CO₂ from the Singareni Thermal Power Plant to produce sustainable methanol. This initiative marks a significant step toward decarbonization and energy sustainability in India, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and advancing green hydrogen technology
- In November 2024, NTPC, India’s largest power producer, inaugurated the world’s first CO₂-to-methanol conversion plant at its Vindhyachal facility. This milestone, launched on NTPC’s 50th Raising Day, marks a significant advancement in carbon management and green fuel technologies. The plant captures CO₂ emissions from industrial processes and converts them into methanol using a specialized catalyst developed by NTPC. Additionally, NTPC deployed hydrogen-powered buses in Leh and introduced innovative green technologies, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable energy
- In July 2024, China continued expanding its methanol production capacity, with several companies increasing output to meet growing domestic and global demand. The country remains a dominant player in the methanol market, leveraging its adaptability as both a chemical feedstock and clean fuel. Despite challenges such as energy consumption policies and environmental regulations, China’s methanol capacity grew by 3.80 million metric tons per year, reaching 111.81 million metric tons. The expansion aligns with China’s broader strategy to support low-carbon energy solutions and industrial applications
- In January 2024, Celanese Corporation, in partnership with Mitsui & Co., launched carbon capture and utilization operations at its Fairway Methanol plant in Clear Lake, Texas. The facility captures 180,000 metric tons of CO₂ annually and converts it into 130,000 metric tons of methanol, marking a significant step toward sustainable methanol production. This initiative aligns with global efforts to reduce industrial emissions and promote low-carbon alternatives in the chemical industry
