Renewable Dimethyl Ether (r-DME) is an off grid, carbon reducing fuel that is a future possibility to support rural decarbonisation. It offers operational and ecological benefits as an alternative fuel source for off-grid businesses that require practical, economical and technically feasibility heating and hot water solutions. r-DME is a molecule-based fuel that can be produced through a wide range of renewable feedstocks that allow for quick and long-term sustainable production. It contains a similar chemical composition to Butane and propane and can be mixed with LPG in existing appliances to continue operations.
A recent trial at the Delft University of Technology, in the Netherlands, was initiated to study the introduction of r-DME into market circulation and to study the feasibility of a 12% blended r-DME and LPG mix. A blended mix of r-DME and LPG was placed into appliances and infrastructure, both of which continued operations without interruption, while also reducing the carbon intensity of the fuel. r-DME combusts cleanly and releases no ‘soot’ emissions. Its properties make it suitable for use in modified compression ignition engines and dedicated diesel-replacement applications. r-DME reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 85% better improving local air quality. Particulate and sulphur emissions are heavily reduced, with NOx emissions potentially lower depending on combustion control. Operational plants for r-DME have been mooted, including a £150 million commercial site in Teesside.
Prior to the development of r-DME, LPG was the lowest carbon emitting source of fuel for the 15% of UK businesses that function off grid. Current energy market conditions could potentially introduce further alternative fuel sources such as renewable biofuel Dimethyl ether (DME) and BioLPG into active circulation. r-DME can offer an efficient operational performance and fulfill a role in the fragile international energy market. As fossil fuels are now heavily affected by geopolitical manoeuvrings, governments will have to consider alternative energies that can improve domestic energy resilience when produced from local waste or renewable sources, such as r-DME. www.rinnai-uk.co.uk