Biomethane and Renewable Gas Development (Certificate, L9, 30 ECTS)

Biomethane Technology and Systems (10 ECTS)

This module provides an in-depth introduction to biomethane production, including feedstock selection, anaerobic digestion (AD) processes, gas upgrading, and grid injection. It explores system integration with existing energy infrastructure, the role of biomethane in decarbonisation strategies, and emerging innovations in renewable gas technologies.
• Introduction to biomethane and anaerobic digestion
• Feedstocks and process optimisation.
• Gas upgrading technologies (membrane separation, water scrubbing, PSA, cryogenic)
• Grid injection and distribution systems
• Biomethane for transport (CNG, LNG applications)
• Emerging technologies (Power-to-Gas, methanation, sector coupling)
• Case studies of operational biomethane projects
• Understanding on construction, operational, technical and safety features (Industry expert lecture)

Legal, Planning, and Environmental Aspects of Biomethane Projects (10 ECTS)

This module explores the legal, regulatory, and environmental considerations in biomethane project development. It covers Irish and EU legislation, planning and permitting processes, environmental impact assessments (EIA), and sustainability certification schemes.
• EU and Irish renewable gas policies and legislation
• Planning and permitting requirements for biomethane projects
• Environmental regulations (EIA, water and air quality standards, biodiversity impact)
• Sustainability and carbon footprint assessment
• Certification schemes and guarantees of origin (GO) systems
• Community engagement and social acceptance strategies
• Risk assessment and regulatory compliance in project execution
• Policy perspectives (Policy expert lecture)

Investment and Financial Strategies for Renewable Gas Development (10 ECTS)

This module focuses on the financial and investment aspects of biomethane and renewable gas projects. It covers business models, funding mechanisms, financial risk management, and the economic viability of biomethane production.
• Economic analysis of biomethane production (CAPEX, OPEX, revenue streams)
• Business models for biomethane deployment (direct sale, grid injection, CNG/LNG markets)
• Investment strategies and risk management
• Funding mechanisms (EU funding, green bonds, venture capital, PPPs)
• Policy incentives and financial supports (grants, tariffs, carbon trading)
• Case studies on successful biomethane projects

(a) An honours degree (level 8) in a cognate (e.g. Science, Engineering etc.,) discipline or approved equivalent qualification.

Or

(b) An honours degree (level 8) in a non-cognate discipline with 4 years experience and/or ability, evidenced by an RPL portfolio of prior experience and learning.

Or

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) 
If you do not meet the academic entry requirements listed above but would like your application assessed under RPL please select YES on the online application. Please include details of any relevant work experience/further information relevant to your application.

English Language: Applicants who do not have English as their first language must ensure they satisfy English Language requirements. For entry to undergraduate courses, a score of 5.5 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. For postgraduate courses, a score of 6.0 in an IELTS or equivalent exam is required. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure their English proficiency meets these requirements. Please note that we do not request proof of English language qualification or proficiency.

Start Date

Student ‘Welcome Induction Session’ will take place online on the evening of Wednesday 2nd September 2026.

Programme delivery will commence the following week on Tuesday 8th September 2026.

This programme will be delivered over one academic year, two semesters. It will be run fully online and classes will take place as follows:

Semester 1:  Tuesday evenings from 7pm to 9pm and Thursday evenings from 7pm to 8pm

Semester 2:  Tuesday evenings from 7pm to 9pm and Thursday evenings from 7pm to 8pm

Live online classes will be recorded and available to watch back.

Proposed delivery schedule is subject to change.

Each 5 credits will normally equate to approximately 100 Total Learning Hours. Total Learning Hours includes the time you spend in class (lectures, tutorials, practical elements) and the time you spend completing work outside of college. The balance between these two varies by discipline, and by level of study. You should bear in mind that the workload will increase at particular times e.g. when assignments are due.

100% Continuous Assessment

A variety of assessment techniques will be employed, including:
Individual projects
Case studies
Essays
Presentations
Open-book exams
Online and in-class assessments
Client-based live company projects

Certificate in Biomethane and Renewable Gas Development (L9, 30 ECTS)

€4,250*

Successful applicants in employment will qualify for 90% Springboard+ funding & will be liable for the balance of the 10% fee of €425.

Successful applicants on a qualifying DSP payment will qualify for 100% funding.

*Limited Places*

Places are allocated on a first come first served basis, prioritizing unemployed and returning applicants.

The programme will close once the maximum number of applicants is reached.

Final closing date for any unfilled places will be the 19th July 2026.

Programmes run subject to viable numbers.