Renewable fuel of non-biological origin

Abstract

A method of producing renewable fuel of non-biological origin, wherein carbonaceous feedstock is subjected to reforming, thereby converting the carbonaceous feedstock to syngas containing hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides. The reforming uses energy (e.g., heat and / or light) generated from electricity, at least some of which is renewable electricity of non-biological origin. The reforming produces syngas, a portion of which has an energy content that is associated with the renewable electricity of non-biological origin. The syngas is fed to one or more processes to produce fuel comprising the renewable fuel of non- biological origin (e.g., a purification process to produce hydrogen and / or a synthesis wherein at least the hydrogen is reacted with one or more carbon oxides). Advantageously, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock can be renewable.

Description

RENEWABLE FUEL OF NON-BIOLOGICAL ORIGINTECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to renewable fuel of non-biological origin and methods and / or systems for producing such fuel that include reforming.BACKGROUND

[0002] Renewable fuel of non-biological origin (RFNBO) refers to fuel having an energy content that is derived from renewable resources other than biomass. For example, RFNBO is often produced from electricity produced from renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, hydro, wave, tidal, and / or geothermal power.

[0003] RFNBO has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in transport sectors where direct electrification is not feasible (e.g., shipping and aviation). In some cases, incentives (e.g., fuel credits) are offered for the production of RFNBO that meet certain GHG emission targets. For example, in order to be counted towards EU’s renewable energy target, the use of a RFNBO may need to achieve a GHG emissions savings of at least 70% relative to a fossil fuel comparator of 94 gCO2eq / MJ (e.g., have a life cycle GHG emissions of no more than 28.2 gCO2eq / MJ or 3.38 tCO2eq / tH2).

[0004] 0ne example of a RFNBO is green hydrogen that is produced by the electrolysis of water, where at least some of the electricity used for the electrolysis is generated from solar, wind, hydro, wave, tidal, and / or geothermal power. Other examples of RFNBO include fuel produced from green hydrogen (e.g., ammonia or electrofuel).

[0005] Electrofuel, which is also referred to as e-fuel herein, is a term that encompasses fuel produced using power-to-gas (PtG) and / or power-to-liquid (PtL) technologies. E-fuel is typically produced by converting renewable power (e.g., renewable electricity) to another energy carrier (e.g., methane, methanol, Fischer Tropsch fuels, etc.). In practice, this is often achieved by converting renewable electricity to green hydrogen via electrolysis, so that the hydrogen can be combined with a carbon source (e.g., carbon monoxide and / or carbon dioxide) or nitrogen source, to produce the RFNBO. For example, some examples of e-fuelsthat can be produced from green hydrogen include methane, methanol, synthetic crude (e.g., e-kerosene and / or e-diesel), and synthetic ammonia.

[0006] Unfortunately, the production of green hydrogen via electrolysis is relatively energy intensive and costly relative to conventional hydrogen production from fossil sources (e.g., green hydrogen may cost, on average, between two and three times more to make than hydrogen produced from the steam methane reforming of natural gas). At least some of these costs may be related to the use of renewable electricity and / or high capital associated with electrolysers.

[0007] In addition, the GHG emissions reductions achieved by the use of green hydrogen can be limited. In theory, if all of the electricity used in green hydrogen production is renewable, the resulting green hydrogen can have a life cycle GHG emissions as low as 0 gCCheq / MJ. Unfortunately, electrolysers used in green hydrogen production can require a lot of electricity in order to increase the operating time and / or load factor (e.g., more electricity than is continuously available from renewable sources), and operators may also need to use nonrenewable electricity from the grid. Unfortunately, when renewable electricity is complemented with non-renewable electricity from the grid (e.g., having relatively high life cycle GHG emissions), or is obtained from a grid with a large share of non-renewable electricity, the resulting green hydrogen may not achieve the GHG savings required for some harder to achieve government incentives.SUMMARY

[0008] The present disclosure relates generally to renewable fuel of non-biological origin (RFNBO) and methods of making the same, wherein the renewable power is used for reforming (e.g., as opposed to electrolysis). For example, in one embodiment, the present disclosure relates to an integrated process of producing renewable fuel of biological origin and renewable fuel of non-biological origin.

[0009] According to one aspect of the instant invention there is provided an integrated process of producing renewable fuel of biological origin and renewable fuel of non- biological origin, the integrated process comprising: a) feeding carbonaceous feedstock toreforming, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity, at least some of the electricity being renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energy comprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; c) carrying out the reforming, thereby converting the carbonaceous feedstock to syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, wherein part of the syngas has a first energy content that is attributed to the renewable electricity of non-biological origin as determined with mass balance and another part of the syngas has a second energy content that is attributed to the renewable carbonaceous feedstock as determined with mass balance; d) subjecting the syngas produced in c) to one or more processes to produce fuel, the one or more processes comprising: (i) purifying at least some of the syngas to produce fluid enriched in hydrogen, (ii) reacting at least some of the hydrogen with at least one carbon oxide, or (iii) a combination of (i) and (ii); e) providing a first quantity of the fuel as the renewable fuel of non-biological origin, the first quantity dependent on the first energy content; and f) providing a second quantity of the fuel as renewable fuel of biological origin, the second quantity dependent on the second energy content.

[0010] According to one aspect of the instant invention there is provided a method of producing renewable fuel of non-biological origin, the method comprising: a) feeding carbonaceous feedstock to reforming, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity, a fraction of the electricity being renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energy comprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; c) carrying out the reforming, thereby converting the carbonaceous feedstock to syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, the reforming carried out such that the reforming provides an energetic lift wherein the amount of the syngas produced from the carbonaceous feedstock in megajoules is larger than the amount of the carbonaceous feedstock of carbonaceous feedstock reacted as a result of the reforming; d) determining, by mass balance, a quantity of at least part of the syngas produced in c) that has an energy content that is associated with the renewable electricity of non-biological origin, wherein the energy content is equal to orless than the energic lift; d) feeding at least some of the syngas produced in c) to one or more processes to produce fuel comprising the renewable fuel of non-biological origin.

[0011] According to one aspect of the instant invention there is provided a method of producing renewable fuel of non-biological origin, the method comprising: a) subjecting carbonaceous feedstock to reforming, thereby converting the carbonaceous feedstock to syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity, at least some of the electricity being renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energy comprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; c) determining, by mass balance, a quantity of at least part of the syngas generated in a) having an energy content that is associated with the renewable electricity of non-biological origin; and d) feeding at least part of the syngas produced in a) to one or more processes to produce fuel comprising the renewable fuel of non-biological origin, wherein the renewable fuel of non-biological origin is provided in an amount dependent on the quantity determined in c), and wherein the reforming is carried out such that an amount of syngas produced in a) in megajoules is larger than an amount of the carbonaceous feedstock subjected to the reforming in a) in megajoules.

[0012] According to one aspect of the instant invention there is provided a method of producing renewable fuel of non-biological origin, the method comprising: a) feeding carbonaceous feedstock to reforming, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity, at least some of the electricity being renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energy comprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; c) carrying out the reforming, thereby reacting the carbonaceous feedstock to produce syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, the reforming carried out such that an amount of the syngas produced in megajoules is larger than an amount of the carbonaceous feedstock in megajoules, at least part of the syngas having an energy content that is associated with the renewable electricity of non-biological origin as determined with mass balance, wherein the energy content attributed to the renewable electricity of non-biological origin is equal to orless than Esyngasx- - - wherein Esyngas is the megajoules of syngas produced( all elect + feedstock) from the reforming, ERENBO is the megajoules of renewable electricity of non-biological origin (RENBO) provided for generating energy for the reforming, Eaii elect is to the megajoules of all electricity provided for generating energy for the reforming, and Efeedstock refers to the total megajoules of carbonaceous feedstock reacted as a result of the reforming; d) feeding at least some of the syngas produced from the reforming to one or more processes to produce fuel comprising the renewable fuel of non-biological origin, wherein the renewable fuel of non-biological origin is provided in a quantity that is dependent on the energy content attributed to the renewable electricity of non-biological origin.

[0013] According to one aspect of the instant invention there is provided a method of producing renewable fuel of non-biological origin, the method comprising: a) feeding carbonaceous feedstock to reforming, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity, a fraction of the electricity being renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energy comprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; c) carrying out the reforming, thereby converting the carbonaceous feedstock to syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, the reforming carried out such that the amount of the syngas produced in megajoules is larger than the amount of the carbonaceous feedstock fed to the reforming in megajoules; and c) determining, by mass balance, a quantity of at least part of the syngas generated in c) having an energy content that is associated with the renewable electricity of non-biological origin; and d) feeding at least some of the syngas produced in c), including at least some of the hydrogen and at least some of the one or more carbon oxides, to one or more processes to produce fuel comprising the renewable fuel of non- biological origin, wherein the one or more processes comprises reacting hydrogen in the syngas with one or more carbon oxides in the syngas.

[0014] According to one aspect of the instant invention there is provided a method of producing renewable fuel of non-biological origin, the method comprising: a) feeding carbonaceous feedstock to reforming, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity,at least some of the electricity being renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energy comprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; c) carrying out the reforming, thereby reacting the carbonaceous feedstock to produce syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, the reforming carried out such that the amount of the syngas produced in megajoules is larger than the amount of the carbonaceous feedstock produced from the reforming in megajoules, at least part of the syngas having an energy content that is associated with the renewable electricity of non-biological origin as determined with mass balance, wherein the energy content attributed to the renewable electricity of non-biological origin is equal to or less than E syngas. . all elect + feedstock) wherein Esyngas is the megajoules of syngas produced from the reforming, ERENBO is the megajoules of renewable electricity of non-biological origin (RENBO) provided for generating energy for the reforming, Eaii elect is to the megajoules of all electricity provided for generating energy for the reforming, and Efeedstock refers to the total megajoules of carbonaceous feedstock reacted as a result of the reforming; and d) feeding at least some of the syngas produced from the reforming to one or more processes to produce fuel comprising the renewable fuel of non-biological origin, wherein the renewable fuel of non- biological origin has a negative carbon intensity that is achieved, at least in part, from carbon capture and storage of carbon dioxide generated as part of the production of the renewable carbonaceous feedstock.

[0015] In some embodiments according to the foregoing aspects, the part of the syngas that has an energy content that is associated with the renewable electricity of non-biological origin is the hydrogen within the syngas.

[0016] According to one aspect of the instant invention there is provided a method of increasing an amount of renewable hydrogen of non-biological origin produced from a given amount of renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the increase relative to conventional alkaline electrolysis, the method comprising: a) feeding carbonaceous feedstock to reforming, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity, at least some of the electricity being the renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energycomprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; and c) carrying out the reforming, thereby reacting the carbonaceous feedstock to produce syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, the reforming comprising a water gas shift; d) feeding syngas produced provided from the reforming to one or more purification processes to produce fluid enriched in hydrogen, wherein steps c) and d) are carried out such that an amount of hydrogen in the fluid enriched in hydrogen produced in megajoules is larger than the amount of the carbonaceous feedstock provided for the reforming in megajoules, the fluid enriched in hydrogen having an energy content that is attributed to the renewable electricity of non-biological origin as determined with mass balance, the energy content being equal to or less than Ehydrogenx- -ERENBO - wherein Ehydrogen is the megajoules of hydrogenproduced from the reforming, ERENBO is the megajoules of renewable electricity of non- biological origin (RENBO) provided for generating energy for the reforming, Eaii elect is to the megajoules of all electricity provided for generating energy for the reforming, and Efeedstock refers to the total megajoules of carbonaceous feedstock reacted as a result of the reforming.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Further features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in combination with the appended drawings, in which:

[0018] FIG. 1A is a schematic diagram of a prior art steam methane reforming (SMR), wherein heat for reforming is provided from the combustion of natural gas; and

[0019] FIG. IB is a schematic diagram of a prior art SMR, wherein heat for reforming is provided from electricity;

[0020] FIG. l is a schematic diagram of a process that produces RFNBO hydrogen in accordance with one embodiment of the instant disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a process that produces RFNBO (other than hydrogen) in accordance with one embodiment of the instant disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of a process that produces RFNBO (other than hydrogen) in accordance with another embodiment of the instant disclosure; and

[0023] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of a process that produces RFNBO hydrogen in accordance with one embodiment of the instant disclosure, wherein substantially all of the heat for the SMR is from renewable electricity of non-biological origin.

[0024] It will be noted that throughout the appended drawings, like features are identified by like reference numerals.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0025] The present disclosure relates generally to producing renewable fuel of non-biological origin (RFNBO) from the reforming of carbonaceous feedstock using renewable electricity of non-biological origin. The present disclosure also describes an integrated process of producing renewable fuel of biological origin and renewable fuel of non-biological origin.Carbonaceous Material

[0026] The term “carbonaceous material,” as used herein, refers to carbon containing material (e.g., typically gaseous or liquid) that is provided for the reforming. In general, at least some of the carbonaceous material, which can be any suitable carbon-containing material or combination of materials, is feedstock for the reforming (i.e., is carbonaceous feedstock). The term “feedstock,” as used herein, refers to material inputs to a process that are transformed by reaction, oxidation, or other chemical or physical methods into product (e.g., products and / or by-products). Supplemental fuel burned to provide heat or thermal energy is not feedstock. Optionally, some of the carbonaceous material provided for the reforming is combusted to provide heat for the reforming (e.g., to provide heat for the endothermic reactions) and / or to produce steam for the reforming.

[0027] In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is predominately hydrocarbons (e.g., at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, or at least about 90%). In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is predominately light hydrocarbons such as methane, ethane, and / or propane (e.g., at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about80%, or at least about 90%). In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is predominately propane and / or butane (e.g., at least about 60%, at least about 70%, or at least about 80%). In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is predominately naphtha (e.g., at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, or at least about 90%). In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is a methane-based gas (i.e., a gas that is at least 50% methane).

[0028] In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is predominately oxygenated compounds (e.g., at least about 60%, at least about 70%, or at least about 80% alcohols). For example, in one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains methanol, ethanol, and / or glycerol.

[0029] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the composition of the carbonaceous material (e.g., or parts thereof) can be measured using any suitable technology or combination of technologies. For example, the composition of gaseous carbonaceous material (and / or other gas mixtures such as syngas) is often measured using gas chromatography (e.g., with a flame ionization detector and / or mass spectrometer). The percentages used to quantify composition and / or a specific content, as used herein, are expressed as mol%, unless otherwise specified. More specifically, for gas mixtures, they are expressed by mole fraction at standard temperature and pressure (STP), which is equivalent to volume fraction, unless otherwise specified.

[0030] As will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the composition of the carbonaceous material can additionally, or alternatively, be characterized based on the relative energy contributions (e.g., MJ) of its components (i.e., on an energy basis). For purposes herein, the energy contribution of each component is determined by measuring the amount of the component (e.g., volume, which can be obtained from flow rates and / or compositional analysis) and using its higher heating value (HHV). In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is predominately gas withdrawn from a natural gas distribution system (e.g., is at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, or at least about 90% natural gas, on an energy basis).

[0031] In a preferred embodiment, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock is renewable (e.g., contains renewable carbonaceous feedstock). The term “renewable”, as used herein, refers to being derived from renewable resources and / or being treated as being derived from renewable resources (e.g., under applicable regulations). In contrast to fossil energy resources, renewable resources are resources that continue to exist despite being consumed or that can replenish at a rate comparable to its rate of consumption (e.g., within a 100-year time frame). For example, some non-limiting examples of renewable resources include the sun, wind, water, geothermal, and biomass.

[0032] The term “biomass,” as used herein, refers to organic material that originates from plants, animals, and / or micro-organisms, and that does not originate from fossil resources (e.g., is not a fossil fuel). For example, some non-limiting examples of biomass include agricultural crops or residues, forestry wastes, municipal wastes, animal wastes (e.g., manure), liquid biofuels (e.g., ethanol), biogas (e.g., raw, partially purified, or fully purified), and / or algae.

[0033] The term “derived from”, as used herein, encompasses the terms "originated from," "obtained from," "obtainable from," "isolated from," “produced from,” and "created from." For example, electricity produced from the combustion of forestry residues is derived from a renewable resource.

[0034] The term “treated as being derived from renewable resources”, as used herein with respect to product (e.g., biogas or electricity), refers to the product being associated with a substantially equivalent product derived from renewable resources. The term “associated with”, as used herein with reference to two things, is intended to refer to the two things being connected with each other, linked to each other, related in some way, dependent upon each other in some way, and / or in some relationship with each other.

[0035] Products treated as being derived from renewable resources are typically provided via a fungible distribution system (i.e., a distribution system that provides similar product from multiple sources). For example, when a quantity of renewable product (e.g., biogas or electricity) is introduced into a fungible distribution system that also provides non-renewable product (e.g., a natural gas pipeline or electricity grid), an equivalent quantity of product(e.g., whether or not it is physically derived from renewable resources) typically can be withdrawn from the fungible distribution system (e.g., at a location distinct from the introduction location) and can be treated as being derived from renewable resources (e.g., under applicable regulations).

[0036] Products treated as being derived from renewable resources, and / or the use of such products, are typically associated through documentation (e.g., electronic or paper). As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein, the type of documentation can vary according to the applicable regulatory agency. Some non-limiting examples of such documentation include: a) one or more documents indicating that a quantity of renewable product (e.g., biogas or electricity) was purchased and / or used (e.g., power purchase agreements); b) proof of origin documents; c) evidence that the environmental attributes of the renewable product were transferred to the equivalent product; d) one or more attestations; e) proof of sustainability or a sustainability declaration; f) verification statements; g) certificates (e.g., renewable energy certificates or REC); h) guarantees of origin; i) chain of custody evidence; and / or j) approved fuel pathways.

[0037] Products treated as being derived from renewable resources typically are recognized as renewable by one or more competent authorities (e.g., a legally designated organization or body). Such competent authorities, may for example, be responsible for the administration and enforcement of certain laws and / or regulations, and thus may be tasked with responsibilities such as regulation, monitoring, enforcement, and / or conducting compliance checks (e.g., related to environmental protection, financial services, etc.).

[0038] In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains biogas. The term “biogas”, as used herein, refers to fluid that contains methane produced from biomass. While biogas is predominately produced via the anaerobic digestion (AD) of biomass, it is also possible to produce biogas from the gasification of biomass. For example, the gasification of biomass may produce syngas, which may be cleaned up, and methanated.

[0039] The term “biogas,” as used herein, can refer to raw biogas, partially purified biogas (e.g., cleaned biogas or upgraded biogas), or renewable natural gas (RNG). Raw biogas refers to biogas as collected from its source (e.g., as collected from an anaerobic digestion). Forexample, when produced from the anaerobic digestion of biomass, raw biogas typically includes methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and can contain water (H2O), nitrogen (N2), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), and / or ammonia (NH3), depending on the type of biomass. Cleaned biogas refers to biogas that has been subjected to one or more purification processes that remove one or more components of the biogas (e.g., H2S and / or H2O) but does not significantly affect the calorific value of the biogas. Upgraded biogas refers to biogas that has been subjected to one or more purification processes that remove one or more components (e.g., CO2 and / or N2) such that the calorific value of the biogas increases. Biogas that is upgraded to the extent that it is substantially interchangeable with natural gas is often referred to as renewable natural gas or RNG. Being substantially interchangeable with natural gas, RNG typically can be transported via a natural gas distribution system (e.g., a fungible pipeline). The terms “renewable natural gas” or “RNG”, as used herein, can refer to biogas that is upgraded so that it is substantially interchangeable with natural gas and / or can refer to gas provided via a natural gas distribution system that is treated as being derived from renewable resources (e.g., is treated as biogas).

[0040] In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains RNG. For example, in one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, or at least about 80% RNG, on an energy basis. In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains RNG derived from renewable resources (e.g., upgraded biogas produced from the anaerobic digestion of manure) and provided as a segregated batch. For example, in one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, or at least about 80% RNG derived from biomass, on an energy basis. In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains RNG that is treated as being derived from biomass and is provided as a fungible batch. For example, in one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, or at least about 80% RNG provided via a fungible distribution system, on an energy basis.

[0001] In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains renewable methane (e.g., biogas, RNG). For example, in one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, or at least about 80% biogas or RNG, onan energy basis. In one embodiment, some or all of the renewable methane is provided via a fungible distribution system. Providing carbonaceous feedstock that is or contains a renewable methane-based fluid is advantageous in terms of exploiting established technologies (e.g., reforming of natural gas, transport via a natural gas distribution system, etc.).

[0042] In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains renewable methane (e.g., biogas and / or RNG) produced from and / or associated with anaerobic digestion. In one embodiment, feedstock for the anaerobic digestion is or includes: (i) energy crop (e.g., switchgrass, sorghum, etc.); (ii) residue, byproduct, or waste from the processing of plant material in a facility, or feedstock derived therefrom (e.g., sugarcane bagasse, sugarcane tops / leaves, com stover, etc.); (iii) agricultural residue (e.g., wheat straw, corn cobs, barley straw, com stover, etc.); (iv) forestry material; (v) livestock manure, including sheep, swine, and cow manure; (vi) food scrap and / or agrifood processing residue (e.g., from slaughterhouse), and / or (vii) municipal waste or components removed or derived from municipal waste. Feedstock such as forestry or agricultural feedstocks (e.g., energy crops, residues, byproducts, or waste from the processing of plant material in a facility, or feedstock derived therefrom, or agricultural residues) may be advantageous for reducing GHG emissions. For example, subjecting swine and / or cow manure to anaerobic digestion can produce RNG having a negative carbon intensity.

[0043] In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains biogas produced from anaerobic digestion, where the biogas has a significant carbon dioxide content (e.g., a carbon dioxide content of at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, or at least about 40%).

[0044] In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains biogas and / or RNG that has a negative carbon intensity. In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock includes multiple biogases (e.g., multiple RNGs, each associated with a different source and / or feedstock). In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock includes multiple biogases, and has a weighted average carbon intensity that is negative. The weighted average carbon intensity of carbonaceous feedstock made up of multiple biogases is calculated as follows:where CIBI refers to the carbon intensity of a first biogas, MJBI refers to an amount of the first biogas provided (in MJ), CIB2 refers to the carbon intensity of a second biogas, MJB2 refers to an amount of the second biogas provided (in MJ), ClBn refers to the carbon intensity of the nth biogas (if more than 2 biogases are provided), and MJBII refers to an amount of the nth biogas provided (in MJ) (if more than 2 biogases are provided). For purposes herein, the higher heating value (HHV) is used for determining amounts of material (e.g., of hydrogen, biogas, syngas, carbonaceous feedstock components, etc.), while the lower heating value (LHV) is used for determining carbon intensities and / or greenhouse gas emissions.

[0045] In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains renewable hydrocarbons (e.g., methane, ethane, propane, and / or butane). For example, in one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains renewable liquified petroleum gas (LPG). Renewable LPG, which contains propane and / or butane, can for example, be a side product of biofuel production (e.g., a side product of processing renewable fats and / or oils), or a side product of a renewable gas to biofuel process.

[0046] In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains renewable oxygenated compounds (e.g., one or more alcohols). For example, in one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains renewable ethanol (e.g., produced from crops, such as corn, and / or agricultural residue, such as com stover). In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains renewable glycerol (e.g., a side product of biodiesel production). In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is predominately renewable glycerol and renewable ethanol. In one embodiment, the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains ethanol produced from an ethanol production process that also produces carbon dioxide (e.g., from the fermentation), and some or all of the carbon dioxide is provided for producing the RFNBO (e.g., as feedstock).Renewable Electricity of Non-Biological Origin

[0047] The term “renewable electricity of non-biological origin”, as used herein, refers to electricity that is produced from renewable resources other than biomass, or is treated asbeing produced from renewable resources other than biomass. For example, renewable electricity of non-biological origin can be produced from hydropower, solar power, wind power, geothermal power, wave power, and / or tidal power.

[0048] In general, at least some of the renewable electricity of non-biological origin, which can be produced from and / or associated with any suitable renewable resource or combination of renewable resources other than biomass, is used to generate energy (e.g., heat) for the reforming (e.g., required for endothermic reforming reactions). In one embodiment, some of the renewable electricity of non-biological origin is used to generate steam.

[0049] In one embodiment, the renewable electricity of non-biological origin is generated solely for the purposes of fuel production (e.g., for the reforming). For example, in one embodiment, the renewable electricity of non-biological origin is generated on-site or is generated at a facility with direct connection to the fuel production facility (i.e., without grid connection). In some cases, the renewable electricity of non-biological origin is generated from new and unsupported renewable electricity generation capacity (e.g., can comply with an additionality requirement).

[0050] In one embodiment, the renewable electricity of non-biological origin is sourced for the purposes of fuel production (e.g., for the reforming). In one embodiment, the sourced renewable electricity of non-biological origin is generated in close proximity to the fuel production (e.g., within 100 km and / or with a direct connection). In one embodiment, the sourced renewable electricity of non-biological origin is distributed via a fungible distribution grid (e.g., a fully renewable grid, or a grid that provides both renewable and nonrenewable electricity). As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein, under some regulations, there can be certain requirements for electricity withdrawn from a fungible distribution grid to qualify the fuel and / or its production for certain incentives. For example, in some cases a temporal and / or geographical correlation between the production of the renewable electricity of non-biological origin and the use of the renewable electricity of non-biological origin is required (e.g., may need to be within a certain distance from each other). In some cases, the quantity of renewable electricity of non- biological origin provided is determined from the average renewable share in the grid. Insome cases, a renewable share that is higher than the average renewable share of grid can be claimed if the operator demonstrates that the renewable electricity of non-biological origin has certain renewable properties. In some cases, the renewable electricity of non-biological origin must be delivered from a fungible distribution system that is substantially fully renewable (e.g., more than 90% of electricity from the grid is renewable electricity).Reforming

[0051] The term “reforming,” as used herein, refers to one or more reactions and / or unit operations wherein carbonaceous feedstock is converted to syngas. The term “syngas”, as used herein, refers to a gas mixture that contains hydrogen (H2) and one or more carbon oxides (e.g., carbon monoxide (CO) and / or carbon dioxide (CO2)). While syngas is predominately hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides (e.g., H2 in addition to CO and / or CO2 collectively make up more than 50% of the gas), it can also contain unreacted carbonaceous feedstock (e.g., methane) and / or smaller amounts of other gases (e.g., nitrogen).

[0052] In general, reforming can be achieved using any suitable technology or combination of technologies known in the art that can convert the carbonaceous feedstock to syngas (and thus to hydrogen), including, but not limited to, steam reforming, dry reforming, and / or autothermal reforming (ATR).

[0053] Steam reforming is a relatively widespread and inexpensive process used to produce hydrogen from carbonaceous feedstock. In steam reforming, which is a type of catalytic reforming, a mixture of a carbonaceous feedstock and steam is put in contact with catalyst within a reactor at high temperature and pressure in order to produce syngas. When the steam reforming is configured for a methane-based carbonaceous feedstock (e.g., containing natural gas, biogas, RNG and / or or refinery gas), it is often referred to as steam methane reforming (SMR). SMR is often associated with the following reactions.CH4+ H2O(g) CO + 3H2(2)CO + H2O(g) CO2 + H2 (3)CH4+ 2H2O(g) C02+ 4H2(4)

[0054] Depending on the type of carbonaceous feedstock, other reactions that may be associated with steam reforming can include the following.CmHn + mH2O(g) mCO + (rn+0.5n)H2(5)CmHn + 2mH2O(g) mCO2+ (2m+0.5n)H2(6)CH3OH + H2O(g) CO2+ 3H2(7)CH3CH2OH + H2O(g) 2CO + 4H2(8)CH3CH2OH + 3H2O(g) 2CO2+ 6H2(9)C3H8O3+ 3H2O(g) 3CO2+ 7H2(10)

[0055] Steam reforming is well-known, and those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein will understand that various operating conditions (e.g., temperature and pressure), catalysts, and / or reactors can be used for various carbonaceous feedstocks. For example, without being limiting, the catalyst for SMR can be nickel-based (e.g., supported on alumina or another suitable material), the operating pressure may be between about 200 psig (about 1.38 MPa) and about 600 psig (about 4.14 MPa), and the operating temperature may be between about 450°C to about 1000°C (e.g., often between about 800°C and about 925°C). SMR is often conducted in reactors that contain vertical tubes packed with the catalyst (e.g., catalyst pellets).

[0056] In dry reforming, which is also a catalytic process used to produce syngas from carbonaceous feedstock, the carbonaceous feedstock reacts with carbon dioxide, rather than steam. For example, dry methane reforming (DMR) is generally associated with the following reaction:CO2+ CH42CO + 2H2(11)

[0057] Without being limiting, the DMR catalyst may be nickel, iron, ruthenium, palladium, or platinum based. While the DMR process does not require steam, and may be conducted atlower temperatures (e.g., between about 600°C to about 800°C), it may be limited by the potential for coke formation. Dry reforming can be advantageous when the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains biogas having a significant carbon dioxide content (e.g., raw or partially purified biogas).

[0058] In ATR, steam reforming or dry reforming reactions are conducted along with partial oxidation reactions. Such reactions are typically conducted in a single reactor such that heat generated from the partial oxidation (e.g., in the combustion zone of the reactor) can be used in the catalytic reforming (e.g., in the reforming zone of the reactor). For example, for a methane-based feedstock, ATR reactions are generally associated with one of the following reactions.4CH4+ O2+ 2H2O 10H2+ 4CO (12)2CH4 + O2 + CO2 3H2+ 3CO + H2O (13)

[0059] Without being limiting, conventional ATR may operate at temperatures between about 750 to 1400°C. In some cases, ATR can use nearly pure oxygen (e.g., 99.5%) for the combustion.

[0060] As will appreciated by those skill in the art, depending on the carbonaceous feedstock, it can be advantageous to provide sulfur removal and / or pre-reforming upstream of the reactor(s) in which the steam, dry, or autothermal reforming is conducted. Sulfur removal (e.g., removing hydrogen sulfide) can be advantageous if the carbonaceous feedstock has a significant sulfur content (e.g., in terms of protecting the reforming catalysts and any downstream catalysts), and thus can be advantageous when the carbonaceous feedstock contains natural gas. In addition, when the carbonaceous feedstock contains natural gas, preforming can help break down higher hydrocarbons (e.g., propane, butane, naphtha) into methane and carbon oxides, which can make downstream methane reforming more efficient. For example, when natural gas is subjected to steam methane reforming, pre-reforming is often conducted after sulfur removal in an adiabatic reactor in the presence of a catalyst (e.g., a nickel-based catalyst) at a temperature between about 400°C and about 550°C.

[0061] As will also be appreciated by those skill in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein, depending on how the syngas is to be used, it can be advantageous to provide one or more water gas shift (WGS) reactors downstream of the reactor(s) in which the steam, dry, or autothermal reforming is conducted. The WGS reaction, which corresponds to the reaction in Eq. (3), consumes carbon monoxide and produces additional hydrogen. While the reforming catalysts used in the steam, dry, and / or autothermal reforming can be active with respect to the WGS reaction (e.g., gas leaving a steam reformer can be in equilibrium with respect to the WGS reaction), the conversion can be limited by the relatively high temperatures required for the steam, dry, and / or autothermal reforming reactions. Providing one or more separate downstream WGS reactors (i.e., shift reactors) operated at a relatively low temperature can maximize the amount of hydrogen produced. In general, shift reactors may use any suitable type of shift technology (e.g., high temperature shift conversion, medium temperature shift conversion, low temperature shift conversion, sour gas shift conversion, or isothermal shift). For example, WGS reactions may be conducted at temperatures between 320-450°C (high temperature) and / or between 200-250°C (low temperature). Without being limiting, high temperature thermal shift may be conducted with an iron oxide catalyst (e.g., supported by chromium oxide), whereas low temperature thermal shift may be conducted with a Cu / ZnO mixed catalyst. For purposes herein, when one or more WGS reactors are provided, the corresponding WGS are part of the reforming used to produce the syngas.

[0062] As many of the steam and dry reforming reactions are endothermic (e.g., excluding WGS), a large amount of heat is typically required in order to keep the temperature within the reactor(s) substantially constant. In conventional steam or dry reforming, this heat typically is provided via a furnace that surrounds tubular reactors that contain the catalysts. Such furnaces, which contain burners that often combust part of the carbonaceous feedstock provided for the reforming, can be categorized according to the burner configuration (e.g., top-fired, bottom-fired, or side-fired). In ATR, the partial combustion of some of the carbonaceous feedstock provides at least some of the heat (e.g., an ATR reactor typically has a spatially separated combustion zone and catalyst bed, where the partial combustion provides heat for the reforming).

[0063] In the instant disclosure, at least some of the energy (e.g., heat) for the reforming is provided from renewable electricity of non-biological origin. More specifically, renewable electricity of non-biological origin is provided to at least one electrically-driven reformer that produces syngas (e.g., steam reformer, dry reformer, autothermal reformer).Electrically-driven reforming

[0064] Reforming of the carbonaceous feedstock is conducted with one or more reformers (e.g., arranged in series and / or parallel), at least one of which is an electrically-driven reformer (e.g., an electrically-heated reformer) adapted to produce syngas from carbonaceous feedstock. The term “electrically-driven reformer”, as used herein, refers to a reformer (e.g., reactor and associated equipment) that is adapted to provide at least some of the energy (e.g., heat and / or light) for at least one endothermic reforming reaction using electricity. The term “electrically-heated reformer”, as used herein, refers to a reformer (e.g., reactor and associated equipment) that is adapted to provide at least some of the heat for the reforming conducted therein using electricity.

[0065] In one embodiment, at least one of the reformers is adapted to provide substantially all of the energy (e.g., heat) required for the reforming conducted therein electrically (e.g., at least about 90%). In one embodiment, at least one of the reformers is adapted to provide only some of the energy (e.g., heat) for the reforming electrically (i.e., in that reformer), while some of the energy for reforming, in the form of heat, is generated from at least partial combustion of some of the carbonaceous material. In one embodiment, the reforming is conducted via two types of reforming, one of which uses an electrically-driven reformer, and one of which is not electrically-driven (e.g., includes an autothermal reformer or a fired steam reformer).

[0066] In one embodiment, the electrically-driven steam reformers is an electrically heated steam reformer. Electrically-heated steam reformers may provide a more uniform heat distribution and / or have a more compact footprint relative to gas-fired steam reformers (e.g., because the furnace, which can be large, is not required). In addition, electrically-heated steam reformers can be more efficient than fired steam reformers. In one embodiment, at least one of the reformers is an electrically-heated steam methane reformer. Suchembodiments are particularly advantageous when the carbonaceous feedstock includes natural gas and / or RNG.

[0067] In general, electrically-heated reformers can be heated directly or indirectly. For example, electrically-heated reformers can be heated directly using resistive or inductive heaters.

[0068] In one embodiment, the electrically-heated reformer is heated directly using resistive heating. For example, such reformers can include one or more stainless steel tubes, where the insides of the tubes are coated with a thin layer of catalyst (e.g., nickel), and where the tubes provide the electrical resistance. Alternatively, the material providing the resistance can be contained within the tubes (e.g., a macroscopic structure that provides channels for fluid flow, and which is coated with a thin layer of the catalyst).

[0069] In one embodiment, the electrically-heated reformer is heated directly using inductive heating. Inductive heating mechanisms may include eddy currents, magnetic hysteresis, and magnetic resonance. Induction heating, which provides a non-contact heat source, can be used to heat magnetic particles or electrically conductive particles, embedded in a catalyst in the reactor, or electrical current conduction coils within or around the reactor. Alternatively, materials that act as both an inductor for hysteresis heating and a catalyst for methane reforming can be used.

[0070] In one embodiment, the electrically-heated reformer is heated indirectly (e.g., using a heat storage medium and / or heat transfer fluid). For example, in one embodiment, the electrically-heated reformer is heated via a heat transfer fluid (e.g., gas or liquid) that can transfer at least a portion of its heat to the reformer tubes (e.g., the heat transfer fluid can surrounds at least part of the reformer tubes and / or circulates around the outside of at least part of the reformer tubes). The heat transfer fluid can be heated directly (e.g., using a resistive or inductive heater), or can be heated via a heat storage medium. The use of a heat storage medium (e.g., a molten salt or a particulate solid material, such as hot sand) can be advantageous in that excess thermal energy can be stored so that it can be used hours, days, or weeks later. Molten salts may be suitable for use as both a heat transfer fluid and / or a heat storage medium. In one embodiment, the electrically-heated reformer is heated using acirculating system that conveys sand particles to a heater, where they are heated using electricity and fed to high temperature particle silos, where they are stored until fed (e.g., by gravity) to a heat exchanger (e.g., pressurized fluidized bed heat exchanger), and recirculated back to the heater. The heat exchanger transfers the heat from the particles to the heat transfer fluid, which may be a gas, which in turn provides the heat to the reforming tubes. Advantageously, such configurations may be used to retrofit conventional fired steam reformers. For example, the conventional furnace can be used to hold the heat transfer fluid around at least a portion of the reforming tubes. Using a heat storage medium is advantageous in that it provides a solution for the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources (e.g., can be used to provide heat for reforming when solar radiation is below optimum). In addition, it can provide a consistent and / or uniform heat.

[0071] In one embodiment, the electrically-heated reformer is an electrically-heated steam methane reformer that is heated using resistive heating. Advantageously, since the energy is supplied within the reforming reactor via resistive heating (e.g., instead of through the reactor walls via conduction, convection or radiation), the greatest amount of heat will be in the pressure shell of the reactor, and thus can be beneficial for the steam reforming (e.g., can provide temperatures greater than about 900°C, greater than about 1000°C, or greater than about 1100°C).

[0072] In one embodiment, at least one of the electrically-driven reformers is a photoreactor containing one or more photocatalysts that help convert the carbonaceous feedstock into syngas. In this embodiment, the electricity generates light that provides at least some of the energy for one or more endothermic reactions (e.g., the reforming is light-driven).

[0073] The use of electrically-heated reforming has been previously proposed. Advantageously, the use of electrically-heated reforming can improve sustainability, reduce greenhouse emissions, and / or improve carbon capture and storage (CCS) processes, particularly when combined with the use of low-carbon or renewable electricity. For example, compare the conventional SMR depicted in Fig. la to the electrically-heated SMR depicted in Fig. lb.

[0074] Referring to Fig. la, a stream of natural gas is split between a first portion 1 and a second portion 3. The first portion 1 is preheated (not shown) and fed with steam 2 into the reactor tubes used in SMR 10. The second portion 3 is fed along with combustion air 4 to the reformer burners (not shown), which provide heat for the endothermic SMR reaction. The SMR 10 produces syngas 15 (i.e., from the reactor tubes) and flue gas 12 (i.e., from the furnace surrounding the reactor tubes). Such processes are generally associated with high greenhouse emissions (e.g., carbon dioxide produced from the combustion of fossil fuels is released in the flue gas). Capturing carbon dioxide from the flue gas for CCS can increase costs and / or the complexity of the process.

[0075] Referring to Fig. lb, a stream of natural gas natural gas lb is preheated (not shown) and fed with steam 2 into the reactor tubes of an electrically-heated steam methane reformer 10b, which is powered by low carbon and / or renewable electricity 5. The steam methane reforming 10b produces syngas 15b (i.e., from the reactor tubes). Since the heat required for the endothermic reforming reactions is provided from low carbon and / or renewable electricity instead of combusting a fossil fuel, this configuration is more sustainable and / or can have relatively low greenhouse gas emissions relative to the configuration illustrated in Fig. la. In addition, since there is no flue gas, the increased costs and / or complexity of capturing carbon dioxide from the flue gas is avoided (e.g., while still providing a process associated with relatively low greenhouse gas emissions). While the use of electrically- heated reformers may be considered advantageous, the low-carbon or renewable electricity provided for the electrically-heated reforming has been generally viewed as means to reduce GHG emissions and / or provide heat for the reforming (e.g., is a utility for the process).RFNBO and Renewable Fuel Contributions

[0076] The instant disclosure recognizes that the electricity used in electrically-driven reforming is not always simply a utility, but rather can contribute to the energy content of the syngas produced from the reforming. For example, consider the following.

[0077] In the configurations illustrated in Figs, la, lb, the amount of syngas 15 / 15b produced on an energy basis can be higher larger than the amount of the natural gas feedstock 1 / lb consumed on an energy basis. For example, assuming that the SMR 10 is conducted such thatall of the natural gas feedstock is converted to syngas, and is followed by WGS (not shown) such that any carbon monoxide in the syngas is converted to carbon dioxide, the energy content of the resulting syngas (e.g., and thus hydrogen) can be at least about 110%, at least about 115%, or at least about 120%, of the energy content of the natural gas feedstock 1, for a given time period (e.g., maximum may be about 129% for natural gas). For example, in some cases, for every 100 units (e.g., 100 MJ / hr) of natural gas feedstock 1 fed to the SMR to be reformed, at least about 110 units (e.g., 110 MJ / hr) of hydrogen can be produced. In view of the law of conservation of energy, where energy can be neither created nor destroyed, this energetic lift illustrates that at least some of the heat used in the reforming (e.g., provided by electrical energy in Fig. lb) contributes to the energy content of the hydrogen produced.

[0078] In addition to recognizing that that the electricity used in electrically-driven reforming contributes to the energy content of the syngas and / or hydrogen produced from the reforming, the instant disclosure recognizes that when the electricity is or contains renewable electricity of non-biological origin, at least a portion of the hydrogen produced is renewable fuel of non-biological origin (RFNBO) and / or can be used to produce RFNBO.

[0079] The term “renewable fuel of non-biological origin” or “RFNBO”, as used herein, refers to fuel (e.g., typically gaseous or liquid fuel) having an energy content that is associated with renewable resources other than biomass (e.g., having an energy content that is derived from renewable electricity of non-biological origin). For example, RFNBO is typically produced when renewable resources other than biomass (e.g., wind, solar, and / or geothermal power) contribute energy to the fuel.

[0080] The term “energy content”, as used herein with respect to a material (e.g., energy content of carbonaceous feedstock, syngas, hydrogen, RFNBO, or other product), refers to the energy contained in the material (e.g., in MJ). The term “energy contained in”, as used herein with respect to a material (e.g., carbonaceous feedstock, syngas, hydrogen, etc.), represents the quantity of the material on an energy basis as expressed in megajoules (MJ), and can be determined from the quantity of the material (e.g., volume, which can be obtained from flow rates) and its higher heating value (e.g., determined with a bomb calorimeter and / or known literature values). For example, if hydrogen is produced at a rate of 1 kg perhour, and the HHV of hydrogen is 142 MJ / kg, then the energy contained in the hydrogen that was produced in that hour is 142 MJ.

[0081] The term “energetic lift,” as used herein, refers to a positive difference between the energy contained in the syngas produced from the reforming and the energy contained in the carbonaceous feedstock reacted as a result of the reforming. For example, if the reforming converts 100 MJ of carbonaceous feedstock to 110 MJ of hydrogen, then the energetic lift is 10 MJ.

[0082] Furthermore, the instant disclosure recognizes that when at least a portion of the carbonaceous feedstock is renewable, at least a portion of the syngas produced (e.g., a portion of the hydrogen) is renewable fuel of biological origin (i.e., a biofuel). Accordingly, the instant disclosure also relates to an integrated process of producing both RFNBO and biofuel. For example, if the reforming converts 100 MJ of renewable carbonaceous feedstock to 110 MJ of hydrogen using renewable electricity of non-biological origin, then the process can produce a batch of RFNBO hydrogen (e.g., having an energy content of “X” MJ, which is attributed to the renewable electricity of non-biological origin) and a batch of biohydrogen or renewable hydrogen (e.g., having an energy content of “110-X” MJ, which is attributed to the renewable carbonaceous feedstock). The term “integrated process,” as used herein, refers to a process for producing multiple products (i.e., at least two), wherein at least one process step, unit operation, and / or system, is common for the production of at least two of the products.

[0083] In general, the amount of syngas and / or hydrogen produced that is RFNBO and / or can be used to produce RFNBO, is determined with mass balance. For purposes herein, the terms “mass balance” or “mass balancing” refers to a method of measuring various input(s) and output(s) of a process, and / or stages of a process, and using the measured values to determine the renewable fractions (e.g., RFNBO and / or biogenic fractions) of the output(s).

[0084] In certain embodiments, the amount of hydrogen produced that is RFNBO and / or can be used to produce RFNBO, is determined with mass balance using: Efeedstock, which is the total megajoules of carbonaceous feedstock reacted as a result of the reforming (e.g., converted to syngas); Ehydrogen, which is the total megajoules of hydrogen produced from thereforming, Esyngas, which is the total megajoules of syngas produced from the reforming (e.g., the energy of the hydrogen and the energy of the carbon monoxide if present); ERENBO, which is the total megajoules of renewable electricity of non-biological origin (RENBO) provided for generating energy (e.g., heat) for endothermic reforming reactions; and / or Eaii elect, which is the total megajoules of all electricity provided for generating energy (e.g., heat) for the endothermic reforming reaction (e.g., including the RENBO, and any other electricity, such as fossil-based electricity and / or renewable electricity of biological origin).

[0085] In general, Efeedstock, Ehydrogen, and / or Esyngas, can be measured using any suitable method (e.g., using a bomb calorimeter, chromatography, known heating values, and / or flow meters). However, it is preferred that the same method be used for determining these values when they are used for the same calculation and / or for comparison purposes (e.g., it is preferred to use known heating values obtained from a single reference document, or to use a bomb calorimeter for determining each of the values). In general, Efeedstock, Ehydrogen, Esyngas, Eaii elect, and ERENBO, if used, are measured for a same time period (e.g., hours, days, months). In practice, there can be some variability in Efeedstock (e.g., due to seasonal variations in natural gas and / or the recycling of various streams, including the use of refinery gas), which can affect Esyngas and / or Ehydrogen. Accordingly, it is preferred that the time period be selected to minimize and / or average out this variability and / or for default values to be used (e.g., default heating values associated with a natural gas pipeline). In some cases, if the composition and / or higher heating value of the feedstock and / or syngas varies over the time period, an average composition and / or higher heating value can be used for determining Efeedstock and / Of Esyngas-

[0086] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein, the exact amount of hydrogen produced that is RFNBO and / or can be used to produce RFNBO can be dependent on the amount of renewable electricity of non-biological origin used, the type and / or amount of renewable carbonaceous feedstock used, and / or the quantification method used. As will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein, the quantification method adopted can be dependent on the applicable regulations. Accordingly, the instant disclosure is not limited to a specificquantification method and / or mass balance approach. Rather, various embodiments are proposed, each of which may be suitable for different regulations and / or applications.

[0087] In one embodiment, the energy contained in the syngas and / or hydrogen produced from the reforming that is RFNBO and / or can be used to produce RFNBO (e.g., as determined by mass balance) is equal to or less than:T _ERENBO _ syngas ^Eati eiect+ E feedstock)

[0088] In configurations where the reforming uses one or more separate WGS reactors, and where the syngas produced is subjected to a purification to produce relatively pure hydrogen, Esyngas can be approximately equal to Ehydrogen and may be measured using the quantity of relatively pure hydrogen obtained and its HHV (e.g., 142 MJ / kg). In configurations where the syngas is not purified and / or contains a significant amount of carbon oxide(s), Esyngas can be determined by measuring the quantity of syngas produced (e.g., flow rates), measuring the composition of the syngas (e.g., gas chromatography), and using known heating values (e.g., a HHV of 142 MJ / kg). Alternatively, Esyngas can be measured using a bomb calorimeter.

[0089] In one embodiment, the energy contained in the hydrogen that is RFNBO and / or can be used to produce RFNBO is determined using, and / or is dependent on, the energetic lift (Esyngas - Efeedstock). For example, in one embodiment, the energy contained in the hydrogen that is RFNBO, and / or can be used to produce RFNBO, is less than the energetic lift. In one embodiment, the energy contained in the hydrogen that is RFNBO, and / or can be used to produce RFNBO, is equal to or less than

[0090] Advantageously, using a quantification method based on the energetic lift recognizes that the energy associated with the energetic lift can be attributed to energy inputs other than the carbonaceous feedstock (e.g., can be used to determine the amount of hydrogen on an energy basis that is not derived from the carbonaceous feedstock, and thus can be RFNBO and / or can be used to produce RFNBO).

[0091] In one embodiment, the energy contained in the syngas that is RFNBO, and / or can be used to produce RFNBO, is less than about 25% of Esyngas, less than about 20% of Esyngas, or less about 15% of Esyngas. In one embodiment, the energy contained in the syngas that is RFNBO, and / or can be used to produce RFNBO, is at least about 10% of Esyngas, at least about 12.5% of Esyngas, at least about 15% of Esyngas, or at least about 20% of Esyngas.Syngas Processing

[0092] The reforming produces syngas, at least some of which is provided for processing (e.g., one or more processes). In general, the processing can be as simple as a purification that produces fluid enriched in hydrogen (e.g., purified hydrogen product), or can include one or more syntheses wherein at least the hydrogen is converted to another product (e.g., fuel). For example, in one embodiment, the syngas and / or fluid enriched in hydrogen is used in another process (e.g., is feedstock and / or an intermediate for one or more syntheses or industrial processes).

[0093] In one embodiment, the processing includes a purification (e.g., one or more gas separation processes) that produces fluid enriched in hydrogen. The term “fluid enriched in hydrogen”, as used herein, refers to the fluid provided from a process step having a hydrogen content (i.e., H2 content) that is higher than the hydrogen content of the feed to that process step. In general, this optional purification can be achieved using any suitable separation technology or combination of technologies. Without being limiting, some examples of separation technologies that may be suitable include, but are not limited to, gas separations based on: a) absorption, b) adsorption, c) membrane separation, d) cryogenic separation, and / or e) methanation. Some examples of absorption systems that may be suitable include, but are not limited to, a monoethanolamine (MEA) unit or a methyldiethanolamine (MDEA) unit. Some examples of adsorption systems that may be suitable include, but are not limited to, systems that use adsorbent bed (e.g., molecular sieves, activated carbon, active alumina, or silica gel) to remove impurities such as methane, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen, and / or water from the syngas. Methanation is a catalytic process that can be conducted to convert the residual carbon monoxide and / or carbon dioxide in the syngas to methane.

[0094] In one embodiment, the processing includes one or more syntheses wherein at least some of the hydrogen (e.g., provided as syngas and / or fluid enriched in hydrogen) is converted to another product. For example, such syntheses can involve reacting the hydrogen with nitrogen (e.g., to produce ammonia) or one or more carbon oxides (e.g., to produce various alcohols and / or synthetic hydrocarbons).

[0095] In one embodiment, the processing includes reacting at least some of the hydrogen from the syngas with nitrogen. For example, in one embodiment, the processing includes a Haber-Bosch synthesis. In the Haber-Bosch process, which is known to those skilled in the art, hydrogen is combined with nitrogen to produce ammonia according to the following reaction.N2+ 3H22NH3(16)

[0096] Without being limiting, the reaction is often conducted under high temperatures (e.g., between about 300°C and about 550°C) and high pressures (e.g., about 15 MPa to about 30 MPa) with a catalyst (e.g., an iron or ruthenium-based catalyst). The source of nitrogen is typically air. For example, an air separator can be used to provide relatively pure nitrogen gas that is fed to the ammonia synthesis with the fluid enriched in hydrogen. Alternatively, air can be used in the reforming (e.g., in a secondary reformer) such that the syngas produced from the reforming contains nitrogen in addition to carbon monoxide and hydrogen, and such that following WGS and carbon dioxide removal, a gas mixture that is predominately nitrogen and hydrogen can be fed to the ammonia synthesis. Ammonia has an important role in the agricultural industry for the production of fertilizers. Ammonia may also be used as an energy carrier for energy storage and transportation.

[0097] In one embodiment, the processing includes reacting at least some of the hydrogen from the syngas with one or more carbon oxides. For example, in one embodiment, the processing includes one or more syntheses wherein at least some of the hydrogen from the syngas is used in the hydrogenation of carbon monoxide and / or carbon dioxide (e.g., part of the process to produce methane, methanol, dimethyl ether, gasoline, light olefins, formic acid, methyl formate, etc.). In such processes, which are known to those skilled in the art, thehydrogen can react with carbon monoxide and / or carbon dioxide according to the following reactions.CO2+ 3H2CH3OH + H2O (17)CO2+ H2CO + H2O (18)CO + 2H2CH3OH (19)

[0098] In one embodiment, the processing includes a conventional methanol synthesis. Convention methanol syntheses use syngas as a feedstock, where the syngas is predominately hydrogen and carbon monoxide (e.g., syngas produced from the SMR of natural gas without a WGS). In such syngas-based methanol production, the syngas is passed over a catalyst in a reactor at elevated temperature and pressure to produce methanol according to Eq. 19. For example, without being limiting, such processes can use a zinc / chromium oxide catalyst (ZnO / CnCh) at temperatures between about 300°C and about 400°C and pressures between about 25 MPa and about 35 MPa, or can use a copper / zinc oxide / alumina catalyst (Cu / ZnO / AECh) at temperatures between about 240°C and about 270°C and pressures between about 5 MPa and about 8 MPa.

[0099] Alternatively, methanol syntheses can use carbon dioxide as feedstock. Two different approaches have been proposed for producing methanol based on the hydrogenation of carbon dioxide, namely the direct hydrogenation approach and the indirect hydrogenation approach.

[0100] In one embodiment, the processing includes a methanol synthesis based on the direct hydrogenation of carbon dioxide. In the direct hydrogenation approach, carbon dioxide is converted to methanol in a one-step process (e.g., according to Eq. 17). Without being limiting, such processes can be conducted with a catalyst (e.g., Cu / ZnO / AECE), at elevated temperatures (e.g., between about 210°C and about 370°C) and pressures (e.g., between about 5 MPa and about 10 MPa).

[0101] In one embodiment, the processing includes a methanol synthesis based on the indirect hydrogenation of carbon dioxide. In the indirect hydrogenation approach, which is atwo-step process, carbon dioxide is converted to syngas (e.g., according to the reverse water gas shift or RWGS reaction shown in Eq. 18), and the resulting syngas is then converted to methanol according to Eq. 19. When carbon dioxide is converted to syngas via the RWGS reaction, this indirect approach is often referred to as carbon dioxide hydrogenation to methanol via reverse water gas shift process. Without being limiting, the RWGS process, which is known to those skilled in the art, is typically conducted over a catalyst at elevated temperatures (e.g., between about 700°C and about 1200°C) and pressures (e.g., between about 0.1 MPa and about 3 MPa). Alternatively, carbon dioxide can be converted to syngas using another technology (i.e., other than the RWGS reaction). For example, in one embodiment, the carbon dioxide is reduced to carbon monoxide via an electrochemical reduction (not shown).

[0102] Methanol can be used as a fuel (e.g., as a motor fuel or gasoline blending component), or for producing another fuel (e.g., dimethyl ether, methyl tert-butyl ether, biodiesel, gasoline, etc.). For example, raw methanol produced from the methanol synthesis can be distilled and fed to a methanol-to-gasoline synthesis. Methanol can also be used for various other applications such as the synthesis of formaldehyde (and thus the manufacture of plastics, paints, textiles, etc.) or the synthesis of acetic acid. Methanol can also be used in fuels cells or for hydrogen storage.

[0103] In one embodiment, the processing includes producing dimethyl ether (DME). DME can be produced directly or indirectly from syngas. The indirect DME synthesis is a two-step process that includes the production of methanol, followed by the dehydration of methanol (e.g., in the presence of acid catalyst). For example, the methanol produced from syngas can be purified (e.g., to remove unreacted gas and water) and dehydrated according to the following reaction.2CH3OH CH3OCH3 + H2O (20)

[0104] Dimethyl ether can be used as a fuel (e.g., can be a replacement for diesel or liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)) or for industrial applications.

[0105] In one embodiment, the processing includes a Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. Fischer- Tropsch processes, which are known in the art, typically include a series of reactions that convert syngas to hydrocarbons of various molecular weights. For example, the overall reaction is often described as follows, where n is an integer (e.g., between 10-20).(2n+ 1 )H2+ nCO CnH2n+2 + nH2O (21 )

[0106] Fischer-Tropsch processes often use a metal catalyst (e.g., iron or cobalt) supported on a high surface area material (e.g., alumina, silica, or zeolite) along with any promotors (e.g., potassium or copper). Without being limiting, Fischer-Tropsch syntheses are often conducted at temperatures between about 150°C and about 400°C (e.g., often between about 175°C and about 250°C) and pressures between about 0.1 MPa and about 10.1 MPa (e.g., often between about 1.5 MPa and about 4.0 MPa).

[0107] Fischer-Tropsch processes can produce hydrocarbons suitable for use as gasoline, diesel, and / or jet fuel. Alternatively, or additionally, Fischer-Tropsch processes can produce olefins, wax, and oxygenated compounds, such as alcohols. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the exact nature of the material produced is controlled by the operating conditions (e.g., including choice of catalyst). For example, a Fischer-Tropsch process conducted with an iron catalyst, at a temperature between about 300°C and about 350°C, a pressure between about 10 bar and 40 bar, and with a H2 / CO ratio of about 1.7: 1 may produce olefins and gasoline, while a Fischer-Tropsch process conducted with a cobalt catalyst, at a temperature between about 200°C and about 240°C, a pressure between about 7 bar and 12 bar, and with a H2 / CO ratio of about 2.15: 1 may produce waxes and diesel.

[0108] In one embodiment, the processing includes a synthetic methane synthesis. Synthetic methane syntheses can include combining hydrogen and carbon dioxide through a process called methanation to produce methane (e.g., via the Sabatier reaction). Without being limiting, synthetic methane syntheses can use a nickel catalyst at high temperatures and pressures.

[0109] In one embodiment, the processing includes gas fermentation. In gas fermentation, which is known to those skilled in the art, syngas is fed into a fermentation reactor containingmicroorganisms or other biocatalysts that can convert the syngas to one or more fermentation products (e.g., methanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol, acetic acid, acetate, butyric acid, etc.). Without being bound by any particular theory, some reactions that can be associated with the biochemical conversion of syngas to ethanol include:6CO + 3H2O CH3CH2OH + 4CO2(22)6H2+ 2CO2CH3CH2OH + 3H2O (23)2CO + 4H2CH3CH2OH + CO2(24)3CO + 3H2CH3CH2OH + H2O (25)

[0110] In general, any suitable microorganisms or other biocatalysts can be used for gas fermentation (e.g., acetogens). For example, some examples of strains that can produce ethanol from syngas are those from the genus Clostridium. In addition to ethanol, Clostridium bacteria may produce significant amounts of acetic acid (or acetate, depending on the pH) in addition to ethanol, depending upon process conditions. Such conditions can be readily selected by those of skill in the art and it should be appreciated that the invention is not to be constrained by any particular set of parameters selected for fermentation.

[0111] Various fermentation products produced from gas fermentation (e.g., methanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol, etc.) can be used as a fuel, or can be used to produce another product (e.g., another fuel). For example, ethanol may be used as a fuel directly or may be blended with gasoline. In addition, some technologies are able to convert various alcohols, including ethanol, into gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel blendstocks, as well as produce benzene and / or toluene.

[0112] In embodiments where at least some of the hydrogen from the syngas is reacted with one or more carbon oxides (e.g., the methanol synthesis, gas fermentation, Fischer-Tropsch synthesis described above), the hydrogen can be fed to the synthesis as syngas (e.g., syngas produced from the reforming that has not been subjected to a purification, or syngas that has been subjected to incomplete purification) and / or as fluid enriched in hydrogen (i.e., obtained by subjecting the syngas produced from reforming to one or more purification processes).

[0113] In embodiments where at least some of the syngas is subjected to a purification to produce fluid enriched in hydrogen (e.g., which is provided as a hydrogen product, or which is fed to one or more syntheses to produce another product), it can be advantageous if the fluid has a hydrogen content (i.e., H2 content) of at least about 80%. In one embodiment, the fluid enriched in hydrogen has a hydrogen content of at least about 85%, at least about 90%, at least about 92%, at least about 94%, at least about 96%, at least about 98%, at least about 99%, or at least about 99.5%. In one embodiment, at least some of the fluid enriched in hydrogen is provided as a RFNBO (e.g., is sold as RFNBO hydrogen and / or is associated with one or more RFNBO hydrogen incentives). In one embodiment, at least some of the fluid enriched in hydrogen is feedstock and / or an intermediate for producing another RFNBO (i.e., RFNBO other than hydrogen).

[0114] In embodiments where at least some of the hydrogen from the syngas is reacted with one or more carbon oxides (e.g., the methanol synthesis, gas fermentation, Fischer-Tropsch synthesis described above), the one or more carbon oxides can be provided as a syngas stream (e.g., the same syngas stream that contains at least some of the hydrogen) and / or as a relatively pure carbon oxide stream (e.g., having a carbon monoxide and / or carbon dioxide content of at least 80%).

[0115] In embodiments where at least some of the hydrogen from the syngas is reacted with one or more carbon oxides (e.g., the methanol synthesis, gas fermentation, Fischer-Tropsch synthesis described above), the one or more carbon oxides can be obtained from any suitable source or combination of sources (e.g., biogenic and / or fossil sources). For example, the one or more carbon oxides can be obtained from the same source as the hydrogen (e.g., can also be produced from the reforming) and / or can be obtained from a different source (e.g., are not produced from the reforming). For example, in one embodiment, the one or more carbon oxides include and / or are derived from carbon dioxide that is captured from the air (e.g., direct air capture). In one embodiment, the one or more carbon oxides include and / or are derived from carbon dioxide produced from biomass (e.g., carbon dioxide collected from the fermentation stage of ethanol production, carbon dioxide collected from biogas upgrading, carbon dioxide captured from the flue gas of biomass combustion, carbon oxides produced from the gasification and / or pyrolysis of biomass, etc.). In one embodiment, the one or morecarbon oxides include and / or are derived from carbon dioxide associated with the production and / or combustion of biofuel. In one embodiment, the one or more carbon oxides include and / or are derived from carbon dioxide captured from off gas of an industrial process. Advantageously, when the carbon dioxide is captured from the air, is derived from biomass, and / or is captured from an off gas from an industrial process, the source of the one or more carbon oxides may be associated with negative and / or avoided GHG emissions (e.g., depending on the regulations).

[0116] In certain embodiments described herein, at least some of the hydrogen from the syngas is reacted with carbon monoxide that is derived from carbon dioxide (e.g., produced by the reduction of carbon dioxide). For example, in one embodiment, at least some of the hydrogen from the syngas is reacted with carbon monoxide produced by subjecting carbon dioxide to a RWGS reaction (e.g., shown below in Eq. 18). In one embodiment, at least some of the hydrogen from the syngas is reacted with carbon monoxide produced via the electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide.

[0117] In one embodiment, the processing includes a RWGS reaction. For example, in one embodiment, the processing includes a syngas synthesis based on the RWGS reaction.CO2+ H2CO + H2O (18)

[0118] The production of syngas via the RWGS reaction is known to those skilled in the art and is advantageous in terms of utilizing carbon dioxide (e.g., captured as part of carbon capture and recycle (CCR)). While the RWGS reaction can proceed at high temperatures without the use of a catalyst (e.g., between about 1000°C to about 1500°C), it can also be conducted at relatively low temperatures with a hydrogenation catalyst (e.g., between about 300°C to about 900°C). Without being limiting, the operating pressure may be between about 0.1 MP and about 6 MPa. In this embodiment, the feedstock for the RWGS typically includes at least some of the hydrogen from the reforming (e.g., provided as fluid enriched in hydrogen having a hydrogen content of at least about 80%) and a carbon dioxide-based fluid (e.g., having a carbon dioxide content of at least 50%). The hydrogen and carbon dioxide for the RWGS is typically provided in a molar ratio (i.e., H2 / CO2) between about 1 and about 9. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the H2 / CO2 molar ratio can be selected independence on the process conditions, catalyst used, and the desired composition of the syngas. For example, when the feed to the RWGS has a H2 / CO2 molar ratio of about 3, then the syngas produced may have H2 / CO molar ratio of about 2.

[0119] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein, the various syntheses (e.g., the methanol synthesis, gas fermentation, Fischer-Tropsch synthesis described above), can be more efficient for certain hydrogen to carbon oxide molar ratios (e.g., for certain H2 / CO, H2 / CO2, and / or H2 / CO2 / CO molar ratios). For example, without being limiting in any way, convention methanol and / or DME syntheses may be more efficient when the H2 / CO molar ratio is about 2, while Fischer-Tropsch syntheses may be more efficient when the H2 / CO molar ratio is between about 0.3 and 4 (e.g., often between about 1.2 and 2.5, depending on the catalyst and / or the desired product).

[0120] In general, a specific H2 / CO, H2 / CO2, and / or H2 / CO2 / CO molar ratio can be achieved by producing a syngas having the desired ratio (e.g., by selecting appropriate conditions for the reforming and / or RWGS), processing the syngas (e.g., via a purification) to remove some of the hydrogen or some of the carbon oxide(s), and / or mixing the syngas produced (e.g., by reforming or RWGS) with another gas (e.g., another syngas, relatively pure hydrogen, and / or relatively pure carbon dioxide).

[0121] As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the exact composition of the syngas produced from the reforming can depend on the carbonaceous feedstock, reforming catalyst(s), the type of reformer(s), the process conditions of the reforming (e.g., temperature, pressure, amount of steam), and / or the presence and / or type of WGS. For example, the syngas produced by conventional SMR of natural gas without a separate WGS can have a H2 / CO of about 3, or higher, while syngas produced by ATR can have a H2 / CO ratio closer to about 2. Advantageously, the H2 / CO ratio provided by ATR may be tailored for the use (e.g., the H2 / CO decreases with the addition of carbon dioxide in the feed).

[0122] In embodiments where the processing includes a synthesis wherein at least some of the hydrogen is reacted with carbon monoxide, the feed mixture (e.g., the feed or combination of feeds to the synthesis) will typically have a carbon monoxide content between about 5% and about 95% and will be gaseous at standard temperatures andpressures. In one embodiment, the feed mixture has a hydrogen content between about 40% and about 95% and a carbon oxide content between about 10% and about 60%. In one embodiment, the feed mixture has a hydrogen content between about 50% and about 95%, a carbon monoxide content between about 10% and about 50%, and a carbon dioxide content between about 0% and about 20%. In one embodiment, the feed mixture has a hydrogen content between about 50% and about 95%, a carbon monoxide content between about 10% and about 50%, and a carbon dioxide content that is lower than the carbon monoxide content (e.g., can be zero). For example, the feed mixture can have a hydrogen content of about 68%, a carbon monoxide content of about 29%, and a carbon dioxide content of about 3%, or can have a hydrogen content of about 75%, a carbon monoxide content of about 12%, and a carbon dioxide content of about 12%. In one embodiment, if the feed mixture contains methane, the methane content is less than about 10%.

[0123] As described herein, since at least some of the electricity used to produce the syngas and / or hydrogen is renewable electricity of non-biological origin (RENBO), then some of the hydrogen will be RFNBO and / or can be used to produce RFNBO. In addition, in embodiments, where the carbonaceous feedstock includes renewable carbonaceous feedstock, then at least some of the hydrogen will be renewable hydrogen (i.e., a biofuel) and / or can be used to produce biofuel or fuel that is at least partially renewable.

[0124] In one embodiment, the method produces hydrogen, some of which is renewable hydrogen (i.e., a biofuel), and some of which is RFNBO hydrogen. Advantageously, hydrogen that is a biofuel or RFNBO can may be considered to have environmental benefits (e.g., have a carbon intensity lower than about 10 gCO2e / MJ, lower than about 5 gCO2e / MJ, or lower than about 0 gCO2e / MJ). Advantageously, this hydrogen, which can be used in gas or liquid form, is very versatile as it can be used as a fuel, converted into electricity, and / or converted to one or more fuels, fuel intermediates, or chemical products. For example, hydrogen can power fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs), which emit no tailpipe emissions other than water, can be run through a fuel cell to power the electricity grid, or used as rocket fuel.

[0125] In one embodiment, at least some of the hydrogen (e.g., some of the renewable hydrogen and / or RFNBO hydrogen) is provided as feedstock for a production process that produces another product (e.g., a fuel, intermediate, chemical product, or any combination thereof). A fuel refers to a material (e.g., solid, liquid, or gaseous) that can be combusted to produce power and / or heat (e.g., can be a transportation or heating fuel). An intermediate is a precursor used to produce product by a further conversion process, such as by a biologic conversion, a chemical conversion, or a combination thereof. A chemical product refers to a chemical compound used in a production process or a product such as a commodity. An example of a chemical product produced from hydrogen is fertilizer. For example, in one embodiment, at least some of the hydrogen (e.g., some of the renewable hydrogen and / or RFNBO hydrogen) is provided for producing another product (e.g., methanol, methane, ethanol, propanol, gasoline, diesel, aviation fuel, kerosene, dimethyl ether (DME), Fischer- Tropsch (FT) hydrocarbons, formaldehyde, steel, ammonia, and / or fertilizer). In one embodiment, at least some of the hydrogen is feedstock for producing electrofuel. In one embodiment, at least some of the hydrogen (e.g., some of the renewable hydrogen and / or RFNBO hydrogen) is used in the hydroprocessing (e.g., hydrocracking and / or hydrotreating) of crude-oil derived liquid hydrocarbon. The term “crude oil derived liquid hydrocarbon”, as used herein, refers to any carbon-containing material obtained and / or derived from crude oil that is liquid at standard ambient temperature and pressure. The term “crude oil”, as used herein, refers to petroleum extracted from geological formations (e.g., in its unrefined form). Crude oil includes liquid, gaseous, and / or solid carbon-containing material from geological formations, including oil reservoirs, such as hydrocarbons found within rock formations, oil sands, or oil shale.

[0126] In one embodiment, at least some of the hydrogen (i.e., at least some of the RFNBO hydrogen) is provided for producing another RFNBO product (e.g., RFNBO fuel other than hydrogen). For example, in one embodiment, at least some of the RFNBO hydrogen is feedstock and / or an intermediate for producing methanol, ethanol, propanol, gasoline, diesel, aviation fuel, kerosene, DME, Fischer-Tropsch hydrocarbons, or ammonia, at least some of which is RFNBO. In one embodiment, at least some of the hydrogen (e.g., at least some of RFNBO hydrogen) is feedstock for a production process that produces long-haul truckingfuel (e.g., diesel), shipping fuel (e.g., heavy fuel oil), aviation fuel (e.g., kerosene, jet fuel) or district heating fuel, at least some of which is RFNBO.

[0127] In one embodiment, the syngas produced from the reforming is subjected to a purification to produce fluid enriched in hydrogen (e.g., relatively pure hydrogen having a hydrogen content greater than about 90%) and an off gas, wherein the off gas contains enough hydrogen and carbon oxide to be used as a syngas feed to one or more syntheses (e.g., methanol, DME, Fischer-Tropsch, gas fermentation, RWGS, etc.).

[0128] Advantageously, the production of RFNBO hydrogen by reforming carbonaceous feedstock can be particularly advantageous over the production of RFNBO hydrogen via electrolysis, when the RFNBO hydrogen is feedstock for a synthesis wherein the hydrogen is reacted with carbon monoxide. For example, since the reforming of carbonaceous feedstock also produces carbon monoxide, the reduction of carbon dioxide (e.g., via the RWGS or electrolysis) is not required in order to provide the carbon monoxide feedstock.Advantageously, this reduces the number of steps (e.g., relative to if the hydrogen is produced from electrolysis).Carbon Intensity and / or Credits

[0129] In general, the use of renewable electricity of non -biological origin results in at least some of the syngas / hydrogen produced from the reforming being RFNBO, and / or being suitable for use in producing RFNBO, regardless of whether the carbonaceous feedstock is or contains renewable carbonaceous feedstock. Such RFNBO and / or its production can be eligible for one or more credits.

[0130] Under some regulations RFNBO may be only eligible for the applicable incentives (e.g., credits) if a certain GHG emission reduction is achieved. The use of renewable carbonaceous feedstock can significantly reduce GHG emissions (e.g., relative to if a relatively high carbon intensity fossil-based feedstock was used).

[0131] In addition to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the use of renewable carbonaceous feedstock for the reforming can result in the production of both RFNBO and biofuel. For example, in general, the syngas / hydrogen produced from such reforming can beat least notionally split at least between a first portion that is RFNBO (and / or is used to produce RFNBO) and a second portion that is biofuel (and / or is used to produce product that is at least partially renewable). Such biofuel and / or RFNBO products and / or their production can be eligible for one or more credits.

[0132] In addition to generally reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the use of renewable carbonaceous feedstock for the reforming can reduce the carbon intensity of the resulting RFNBO hydrogen to less than that typically obtained for green hydrogen produced from electrolysis, and thus can reduce the carbon intensity of the RFNBO hydrogen and / or product derived therefrom. Accordingly, the possibility of obtaining more and / or more valuable credits for the RFNBO hydrogen, or product derived therefrom. The use of carbonaceous feedstock having a negative carbon intensity is particularly advantageous and can increase the possibility of obtaining more and / or more value credits for the RFNBO hydrogen, RFNBO product, renewable hydrogen, and / or at least partially renewable product produced from the renewable hydrogen.

[0133] In one embodiment, the renewable carbonaceous feedstock has a negative carbon intensity. A negative carbon intensity, can for example, be achieved when the renewable carbonaceous feedstock is produced from a process that includes carbon capture and storage (CCS) and / or is associated with avoided emissions. For example, in one embodiment, the renewable carbonaceous feedstock comprises upgraded biogas and / or RNG having a negative carbon intensity resulting from the capture and storage of carbon dioxide from biogas (e.g., captured during biogas upgrading). In one embodiment, the renewable carbonaceous feedstock comprises upgraded biogas and / or RNG having a negative carbon intensity associated with avoided GHG emissions (e.g., produced from a feedstock such as manure or food waste).

[0134] Advantageously, when the renewable carbonaceous feedstock has a negative carbon intensity and is present in a significant amount, the RFNBO syngas / hydrogen produced from reforming can also have a negative carbon intensity, and in some cases can be used to produce another RFNBO that has a negative carbon intensity (e.g., carbon negative ammonia,methanol, diesel, gasoline, aviation fuel, etc.). This is not possible when the RFNBO hydrogen is produced from electrolysis.

[0135] The term “carbon intensity” or “CI” refers to the quantity of life cycle GHG emissions associated with a product (e.g., fuel) for a given production process and is often expressed in grams of CO2 equivalent emissions per unit of product produced (e.g., gCChe / MJ of fuel, gC02e / MMBTU of fuel, gCChe / kWh of electricity, or kgCChe / kg of fuel / product). As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, life cycle GHG emissions and / or carbon intensity are often determined using a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA), which identifies and estimates all GHG emissions and GHG removals in producing the product (e.g., fuel), from the growing or extraction of raw materials, to the production of the product, through to the end use (e.g., well-to-wheel). Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that life cycle GHG emissions and / or carbon intensity of a product can be dependent upon the LCA methodology used and / or that the LCA analysis can be aided by software (e.g., GREET ®, SimaPro®, or GaBi). The carbon intensity values recited herein are determined using the CA-GREET model (e.g., see, https: / / ww2.arb.ca.gov / resources / documents / lcfs-life-cycle- analysis-models-and-documentation), unless otherwise specified.

[0136] In one embodiment, the method includes generating, obtaining, or providing one or more credits, where the credits are dependent at least on the use of renewable carbonaceous feedstock. In one embodiment, the method includes generating, obtaining, or providing one or more credits, where the credits are dependent at least on the use of renewable electricity of non-biological origin. In one embodiment, the method includes generating, obtaining, or providing one or more credits, where the credits are RFNBO credits (e.g., for the RFNBO hydrogen or a product produced from the RFNBO hydrogen).

[0137] The term “credit”, as used herein, refers to any rights and / or benefits relating to GHG emission reductions (e.g., carbon reductions) and / or the renewable origin of a specific material (e.g., fuel or other product), including but not limited to rights to credits, revenues, offsets, GHG gas rights, tax benefits, government payments, or similar rights or quantifiable benefits, whether created from or through a government authority, a private contract, or otherwise. Credits can be used to incentivize the production of at least partially renewableproducts and / or products associated with reduced GHG emissions (e.g., fuels used in the transportation sector). For example, credits such as fuel credits can be used to demonstrate compliance with some government initiative, standard, and / or program, where the goal is to reduce GHG emissions (e.g., reduce carbon intensity in transportation fuels as compared to some baseline level related to conventional petroleum fuels) and / or produce a certain amount of biofuel (e.g., produce a mandated volume or a certain percentage of biofuels). Some nonlimiting examples of such initiatives, standards, and / or programs include the Renewable Fuel Standard Program (RFS2) in the United States, the Renewable Energy Directive (RED II) in Europe, the Fuel Quality Directive in Europe, the Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation (RTFO) in the United Kingdom, and / or the Low Carbon Fuel Standards (LCFS) in California, Oregon, or British Columbia. Some non-limiting examples of credits include RINs and LCFS credits. A Renewable Identification Number (or RIN), which is a certificate that acts as a tradable currency for managing compliance under the RFS2, may be generated for each gallon of biofuel (e.g., ethanol, biodiesel, etc.) produced. A Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) credit, which is a certificate which acts as a tradable currency for managing compliance under California’s LCFS, may be generated for each metric ton (MT) of CO2 reduced. Another example of a credit is the producer or production credits for clean hydrogen, or products made using clean hydrogen, proposed by the US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). In general, a credit can be a certificate, record, serial number or guarantee, in any form, including electronic, which evidences production of a quantity of a product meeting certain life cycle GHG emission reductions relative to a baseline (e.g., a gasoline baseline) set by a government authority. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, when a product is treated as meeting a certain life cycle GHG emission reduction threshold under certain regulations and / or when one or more credits for the product or its production are obtained, the LCA methodology will be selected to comply with the prevailing rules and regulations in the applicable jurisdiction (e.g., relevant to the desired credits).CCS

[0138] Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is a climate change mitigation technology that leads to a reduction in atmospheric carbon dioxide relative to the option of not using the technology. In general, CCS refers to one or more processes wherein carbon dioxide iscaptured from the atmosphere, or is captured from a process that otherwise would release it to the atmosphere, and wherein the captured carbon is stored and / or used in a way that reduces the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

[0139] 0ne example of CCS is where carbon dioxide is captured from an emitting source and then permanently stored underground. Another example of CCS is where carbon dioxide is captured and provided as a substitute to fossil-based carbon dioxide in an application that consumes fossil-derived carbon dioxide that is extracted or produced for the primary purpose of serving such application. In such an instance, the extraction or production is avoided, and the captured carbon dioxide that would otherwise be released does not enter the atmosphere, creating a reduction in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels relative to baseline of releasing the carbon dioxide. In managing the use of carbon dioxide to applications, distribution systems (e.g., pipelines) are often used to transport the carbon dioxide. One such use is in enhanced oil recovery (EOR) projects, where high-pressure carbon dioxide is injected into wells to carry more oil to the surface. Frequently, at least some of the carbon dioxide in the distribution system is fossil-based carbon dioxide obtained from naturally occurring underground carbon dioxide deposits. Injecting a quantity of captured carbon dioxide into such carbon dioxide distribution systems can prevent an equal quantity of carbon dioxide from being removed from the naturally occurring underground deposits, and result in a reduction in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels by avoiding the release of such captured carbon dioxide.

[0140] For purposes herein, the phrase “carbon capture and storage” or “CCS” refers to carbon capture with substantially permanent storage (e.g., sequestration in geological formations) and / or carbon capture and use in beneficial applications (e.g., that consume carbon dioxide and / or carbon monoxide, or use carbon dioxide and / or carbon monoxide to make a product), such that there is a reduction in atmospheric carbon relative to the absence of such storage and / or use. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, it can be advantageous for the carbon capture and storage technology to be selected such that it is recognized by the applicable regulatory authority for reducing life cycle GHG emissions and / or mitigating climate change. For example, some regulations may require geologicalstorage to have a maximum leakage rate (e.g., monitoring of carbon dioxide leakage from storage for a certain time period may be mandatory).

[0141] While CCS is often discussed in terms of directly capturing carbon dioxide and / or monoxide using one or more carbon capture technologies such as adsorption, absorption, membrane, cryogenic, and / or chemical looping technologies, in some cases the carbon is captured from the atmosphere and converted to biomass via photosynthesis and at least part of the corresponding plants are used to produce bioenergy that makes biogenic carbon available for subsequent CCS. When such bioenergy production is integrated with CCS, this may be referred to as bioenergy with carbon capture and storage or BECCS. BECCS, which is a group of technologies that combine extracting bioenergy from biomass with CCS, has the potential to provide negative GHG emissions and thus may play an important role in commitments to reach net-zero carbon emissions. For example, in some cases, BECCS can be viewed as a process where biomass (e.g., plants) is used to capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, the biomass is processed to produce bioenergy (e.g., heat, electricity, fuels) while releasing carbon dioxide, and the carbon dioxide produced during the processing is captured and stored such that there is a net transfer of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere to storage.

[0142] In one embodiment, carbon dioxide and / or carbon monoxide produced from the reforming is provided for at least one CCS process, thereby reducing the carbon intensity of the hydrogen produced from reforming and / or reducing life cycle GHG emissions of the fuel or other product produced from the hydrogen. In one embodiment, the carbon dioxide produced from the reforming is captured and stored in geological formations. In one embodiment, the carbon dioxide and / or carbon monoxide produced from the reforming is provided as part of a CCS process wherein it is converted to another product (e.g., for urea production, methanol production, salicylic acid production, synthetic crude production, etc.). In one embodiment, the carbon dioxide produced from the reforming is captured and provided as part of a CCS process (e.g., wherein it is used for EOR, as a refrigerant, in carbonated beverages, etc.).

[0143] Figs. 2 to 4 show various embodiments of methods of producing RFNBO (e.g., hydrogen and / or e-fuel) from a methane-containing feed based on electrically-heated SMR.

[0144] Referring to Fig. 2, a methane-containing feed 201 is fed to reforming 230 as the carbonaceous material, where it is subjected to electrically-heated SMR 210 to produce a first syngas 215 that is predominately hydrogen and carbon monoxide. In addition to the methane- containing feed 201, the electrically-heated SMR 210 also receives steam 202 and electricity 205. At least some of the electricity 205 is renewable electricity of non-biological origin (RENBO). This first syngas 215 is then subjected to a WGS 220 to produce a second syngas 235 that is predominately hydrogen and carbon dioxide. The second syngas is subjected to a purification 240 that removes the carbon dioxide, and optionally carbon monoxide, to produce fluid enriched in hydrogen 245 (e.g., having hydrogen content between about 80% and about 100%) that contains RFNBO hydrogen. Off-gas from the purification 244, which can contain carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, methane, and hydrogen, can be flared, used within the process (e.g., recirculated and / or combusted to produce stream), and / or used outside of the process (e.g., for producing another fuel). In some embodiments, carbon dioxide and / or carbon monoxide, is captured from the off gas. Alternatively, or additionally, in some embodiments, carbon dioxide and / or carbon monoxide is captured directly from the syngas (e.g., part of purification 240). In some embodiments, the captured carbon dioxide and / or carbon monoxide is provided for one or more CCS processes (e.g., wherein the carbon dioxide and / or carbon monoxide can be recycled for beneficial use).

[0145] Referring to Fig. 3, a methane-containing feed 201 is fed to reforming 230 as the carbonaceous material, where it is subjected to electrically-heated SMR 210 to produce a first syngas 215 that is predominately hydrogen and carbon monoxide. This first syngas 215 is then subjected to a WGS 220 to produce a second syngas 235 that is predominately hydrogen and carbon dioxide. The second syngas is subjected to a purification 240 that removes the carbon dioxide, and optionally carbon monoxide, to produce fluid enriched in hydrogen 245 (e.g., having hydrogen content between about 80% and about 100%). At least some of the fluid enriched in hydrogen is RFNBO hydrogen and is provided for fuel production 250, which produces RFNBO 255 (i.e., RFNBO other than hydrogen, such as ammonia, methanol, Fischer-Tropsch fuel, etc.). More specifically, at least some of the RFNBO hydrogen iscombined with carbon monoxide and / or carbon dioxide from an external source 251 (e.g., carbon dioxide collected from ethanol production, from direct air capture, and / or from flue gas produced from an industrial process) and / or carbon monoxide and / or carbon dioxide from the process (e.g., carbon monoxide and / or carbon dioxide captured from the syngas 235, carbon monoxide and / or carbon dioxide captured from the off gas 244, part of the syngas not subjected to the purification 244, and / or carbon monoxide and / or carbon dioxide captured from a stream derived from the off gas 244). For example, with regard to the latter, in one embodiment, the RFNBO hydrogen is combined with carbon dioxide produced by combusting at least a portion of the off gas 244. In the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 3, the fuel production includes reacting the hydrogen with one or more carbon oxides; however, in other embodiments, the fuel production includes reacting the hydrogen with nitrogen (e.g., to produce ammonia).

[0146] Ref erring to Fig. 4, a methane-containing feed 201 is fed to reforming 230 as the carbonaceous material, where it is subjected to electrically-heated SMR 210 to produce a syngas 215 that is predominately hydrogen and carbon monoxide (e.g., having a H2 / CO molar ratio of about 3). This syngas 215 is then provided for the fuel production 250, which can be based on any suitable gas to liquid fuel technologies or combination of technologies, to produce the RFNBO 255. For example, the fuel production 250 can include a Fischer- Tropsch synthesis, methanol synthesis, ammonia synthesis, and / or gas fermentation.

[0147] In this embodiment, the syngas 215 is not subjected to a purification that removes carbon monoxide and / or carbon dioxide, although the syngas 215 can be mixed with additional carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and / or hydrogen upstream of and / or as part of the fuel production 250. Accordingly, one advantage of this embodiment is that any carbon monoxide used in the fuel production does not need to be generated from a RWGS (e.g., thereby simplifying the process and / or reducing costs relative to the corresponding RFNBO production based on electrolysis).Example 1

[0148] For the purposes of this prophetic example, which is based on the embodiment illustrated in Fig. 5, the methane-containing feed 201 is assumed to be 100% methane and iscompletely converted to syngas 235. More specifically, referring to Fig. 5, 1.7 kg of methane (e.g., 81 MJ of methane having a HHV of 55 MJ / kg) and 33 MJ of electricity are consumed by the SMR 210, which results in the production of 0.8 kg of hydrogen (e.g., 100 MJ of hydrogen having a HHV of 142 MJ / kg). Accordingly, Esyngas is equal to 100 MJ (e.g., in this case Esyngas=Ehydrogen), Efeedstock=81 MJ, Eaiieiect=33 MJ, and the energetic lift is 19 MJ (i.e., 19% of the hydrogen produced on an energy basis).

[0149] Assuming that all of the electricity is renewable electricity of non-biological origin (i.e., Eaii eiect=EREFNBO=33 MJ), the amount of hydrogen produced in MJ that is RFNBO and / or can be used to produce RFNBO can be as high as 29 MJ according to Eq. 14 (e.g., 29% of the hydrogen produced on an energy basis), or as high as 19 MJ according to Eq. 15 MJ (e.g., 19% of the hydrogen produced on an energy basis).

[0150] Assuming that all of the methane is renewable methane, and using Eq. 14, the hydrogen produced 245 can be at least notionally split between a biofuel portion containing 71 MJ of renewable hydrogen and / or a RFNBO portion containing 29 MJ of RFNBO hydrogen. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein, when only a fraction of the methane (e.g., or other carbonaceous feedstock) is renewable, the amount of renewable hydrogen produced typically is dependent on the fraction (e.g., proportional).

[0151] Advantageously, some or all of the 71 MJ of renewable hydrogen and / or some or all of the 29 MJ of RFNBO hydrogen can be fed to another process that produces one or more other fuels and / or products (e.g., another RFNBO). For example, in one embodiment, both the renewable hydrogen and the RFNBO hydrogen are provided to a fuel production facility wherein the renewable content and / or RFNBO content of the hydrogen can be incorporated into crude oil derived liquid hydrocarbon. Advantageously, various embodiments of the instant disclosure (e.g., including the embodiments illustrated in Figs. 2, 3, and 4) provide other advantages over RFNBO production based on electrolysis. For example, one advantage is that the RFNBO can be generated without the use of an electrolyser (e.g., which can be capital intensive). Another advantage is that when the method includes the use of renewable carbonaceous feedstock having a negative carbon intensity, the method can produce RFNBOhydrogen having a carbon intensity that is lower than that achieved for RFNBO hydrogen produced from electrolysis (e.g., can produce carbon negative RFNBO). In one embodiment, the method produces carbon negative RFNBO hydrogen.

[0152] Since RFNBO is, by definition, not derived from bioenergy sources, it has not been previously recognized that a method using a renewable carbonaceous feedstock, such as biogas, could produce RFNBO (e.g., RFNBO’ s have been described as not relying on biomass as an energy input). However, as discussed herein, when the renewable carbonaceous feedstock is fed to an electrically-driven reformer that uses renewable electricity of non-biological origin, a portion of the syngas / hydrogen produced from the reforming will have an energy content that arises only from the renewable electricity of non- biological origin (e.g., as evident from the energetic lift). Yet another advantage is that the method can be more efficient and / or can produce more RFNBO hydrogen for a given amount of renewable electricity of non-biological origin. For example, consider the following.

[0153] Conventional alkaline electrolysis has an electrical efficiency of about 70%. In other words, for each MJ of electricity, conventional alkaline electrolysis can produce about 0.7 MJ of hydrogen (HHV of 142 MJ / kg). Accordingly, if 33 MJ of renewable electricity of non- biological origin is provided, then conventional alkaline electrolysis can produce about 23.1 MJ of RFNBO hydrogen.

[0154] In comparison, in the Example, 33 MJ of renewable electricity of non-biological origin can produce as much as 29 MJ of RFNBO hydrogen (i.e., based on HHV and calculated using Eq. 14). In other words, each MJ of renewable electricity of non-biological origin can produce about 0.88 MJ of RFNBO hydrogen. Advantageously, not only can various embodiments disclosed herein produce more RFNBO hydrogen per MJ of renewable electricity of non-biological origin, but the resulting RFNBO hydrogen can also have a lower carbon intensity (i.e., relative to hydrogen produced from electrolysis using RENBO) when the renewable carbonaceous feedstock has a negative carbon intensity (e.g., in some cases can be carbon negative).

[0155] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing certain embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. For example, as used herein, thesingular forms "a," "an," and "the" may include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The terms “comprises”, "comprising", “including”, and / or “includes”, as used herein, are intended to mean "including but not limited to." The term “and / or”, as used herein, is intended to refer to either or both of the elements so conjoined. The phrase “at least one” in reference to a list of one or more elements, is intended to refer to at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements. Thus, as a non-limiting example, the phrase “at least one of A and B” may refer to at least one A with no B present, at least one B with no A present, or at least one A and at least one B in combination. In the context of describing the combining of components by the “addition” or “adding” of one component to another, or the separating of components by the “removal” or “removing” of one component from another, those skilled in the art will understand that the order of addition / removal is not critical (unless stated otherwise). The terms “remove”, “removing”, and “removal”, with reference to one or more impurities, contaminants, and / or constituents of biogas, includes partial removal. The terms “cause” or “causing”, as used herein, may include arranging or bringing about a specific result (e.g., a withdrawal of a gas), either directly or indirectly, or to play a role in a series of activities through commercial arrangements such as a written agreement, verbal agreement, or contract. The terms “first”, “second”, etc., may be used to distinguish one element from another, and these elements should not be limited by these terms. The term “plurality”, as used herein, refers to two or more. The term “providing” as used herein with respect to an element, refers to directly or indirectly obtaining the element and / or making the element available for use. The terms “upstream” and “downstream”, as used herein, refer to the disposition of a step / stage in the process with respect to the disposition of other steps / stages of the process. For example, the term upstream can be used to describe a step / stage that occurs at an earlier point of the process, whereas the term downstream can be used to describe a step / stage that occurs later in the process. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0156] Of course, the above embodiments have been provided as examples only. It will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that various modifications, alternate configurations, and / or equivalents will be employed without departing from the scope of theinvention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is therefore intended to be limited solely by the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

Claims1. An integrated process of producing renewable fuel of biological origin and renewable fuel of non-biological origin, the integrated process comprising: a) feeding carbonaceous feedstock to reforming, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity, at least some of the electricity being renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energy comprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; c) carrying out the reforming, thereby converting the carbonaceous feedstock to syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, wherein part of the syngas has a first energy content that is attributed to the renewable electricity of non-biological origin as determined with mass balance and another part of the syngas has a second energy content that is attributed to the renewable carbonaceous feedstock as determined with mass balance; d) subjecting the syngas produced in c) to one or more processes to produce fuel, the one or more processes comprising:(i) purifying at least some of the syngas to produce fluid enriched in hydrogen,(ii) reacting at least some of the hydrogen with at least one carbon oxide, or(iii) a combination of (i) and (ii); e) providing a first quantity of the fuel as the renewable fuel of non-biological origin, the first quantity dependent on the first energy content; and f) providing a second quantity of the fuel as renewable fuel of biological origin, the second quantity dependent on the second energy content.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the one or more processes in d) comprises (ii) reacting at least some of the hydrogen with the at least one carbon oxide.

3. The method according to claim 2, wherein the at least one carbon oxide comprises carbon monoxide.

4. The method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the at least one carbon oxide comprises carbon dioxide.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one carbon oxide is derived from the syngas.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the at least one carbon oxide is not derived from the syngas.

7. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein the one or more processes in d) comprises (i) purifying at least some of the syngas to produce fluid enriched in hydrogen.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the one or more processes in d) comprise feeding the fluid enriched in hydrogen and fluid containing carbon dioxide to a reverse water gas shift.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the one or more processes in d) comprises (ii) reacting at least some of the hydrogen with at least one carbon oxide, and wherein said reacting comprises at least one catalytic reaction wherein carbon monoxide reacts with hydrogen.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the one or more processes in d) comprises (ii) reacting at least some of the hydrogen with at least one carbon oxide, and wherein said reacting comprises at least one catalytic reaction wherein carbon dioxide reacts with hydrogen.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the one or more processes in d) comprises (ii) reacting at least some of the hydrogen with at least one carbon oxide, and wherein said reacting comprises a Fischer-Tropsch reaction.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the fuel provided in e) comprises methanol, ethanol, butanol, dimethyl ether, or any combination thereof.

13. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, or 11, wherein the fuel provided in e) comprises aviation fuel, shipping fuel, kerosene, gasoline, diesel, or any combination thereof.

14. The method according to claim 1, wherein the one or more processes in d) comprises (i) purifying at least some of the syngas to produce the fluid enriched in hydrogen, and wherein the fuel provided in e) comprises the fluid enriched hydrogen.

15. The method according to any of claims 1 to 14, wherein b) comprises generating heat for the reforming from electricity.

16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the renewable carbonaceous feedstock is a methane-based fluid comprising renewable methane.

17. The method according to any of claims 1 to 15, wherein the carbonaceous feedstock comprises fossil-based natural gas.

18. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the carbonaceous feedstock comprises biogas derived from manure, and wherein each of the biogas and the first quantity of fuel provided as the renewable fuel of non-biological origin has a negative carbon intensity.

19. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 18, wherein the renewable electricity is produced from solar power, wind power, geothermal power, or any combination thereof.

20. The method according to any of claims 1 to 19, wherein the reforming in c) comprises steam reforming.

21. The method according to any of claims 1 to 20, wherein the one or more processes in d) comprises (i) purifying at least some of the syngas to produce the fluid enriched in hydrogen, and wherein the fluid enriched in hydrogen comprises hydrogen having a negative carbon intensity.

22. The method according to any of claims 1 to 20, wherein the first energy content in step c) is dependent onwhere ERENBO refers to the total megajoules of renewable electricity of non -biological origin (RENBO) provided for generating energy for the reforming, Eaii elect refers to the total megajoules of all electricity provided for generating energy for the reforming, and Efeedstock refers to the total megajoules of carbonaceous feedstock reacted as a result of the reforming.

23. The method according to any of claims 1 to 20, wherein the first energy content in step c) is dependent on an energetic lift associated with the reforming.

24. A method of producing renewable fuel of non-biological origin, the method comprising: a) feeding carbonaceous feedstock to reforming, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity, a fraction of the electricity being renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energy comprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; c) carrying out the reforming, thereby converting the carbonaceous feedstock to syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, the reforming carried out such that the reforming provides an energetic lift wherein the amount of the syngas produced from the carbonaceous feedstock in megajoules is larger than the amount of the carbonaceous feedstock of carbonaceous feedstock reacted as a result of the reforming; d) determining, by mass balance, a quantity of at least part of the syngas produced in c) that has an energy content that is associated with the renewable electricity of non-biological origin, wherein the energy content is equal to or less than the energic lift; and d) feeding at least some of the syngas produced in c) to one or more processes to produce fuel comprising the renewable fuel of non-biological origin.

25. A method of producing renewable fuel of non-biological origin, the method comprising:a) subjecting carbonaceous feedstock to reforming, thereby converting the carbonaceous feedstock to syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity, at least some of the electricity being renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energy comprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; c) determining, by mass balance, a quantity of at least part of the syngas generated in a) having an energy content that is associated with the renewable electricity of non-biological origin; and d) feeding at least part of the syngas produced in a) to one or more processes to produce fuel comprising the renewable fuel of non-biological origin, wherein the renewable fuel of non-biological origin is provided in an amount dependent on the quantity determined in c), and wherein the reforming is carried out such that an amount of syngas produced in a) in megajoules is larger than an amount of the carbonaceous feedstock subjected to the reforming in a) in megajoules.

26. A method of producing renewable fuel of non-biological origin, the method comprising: a) feeding carbonaceous feedstock to reforming, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity, at least some of the electricity being renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energy comprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; c) carrying out the reforming, thereby reacting the carbonaceous feedstock to produce syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, the reforming carried out such that an amount of the syngas produced in megajoules is larger than an amount of the carbonaceous feedstock in megajoules, at least part of the syngas having anenergy content that is associated with the renewable electricity of non-biological origin as determined with mass balance, wherein the energy content attributed to the renewable electricity of non-biological origin is equal to or less thanwherein Esyngas is the megajoules of syngas produced from the reforming, ERENBO is the megajoules of renewable electricity of non-biological origin (RENBO) provided for generating energy for the reforming, Eaii elect is to the megajoules of all electricity provided for generating energy for the reforming, and Efeedstock refers to the total megajoules of carbonaceous feedstock reacted as a result of the reforming; and d) feeding at least some of the syngas produced from the reforming to one or more processes to produce fuel comprising the renewable fuel of non-biological origin, wherein the renewable fuel of non-biological origin is provided in a quantity that is dependent on the energy content attributed to the renewable electricity of non-biological origin.

27. A method of producing renewable fuel of non-biological origin, the method comprising: a) feeding carbonaceous feedstock to reforming, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity, a fraction of the electricity being renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energy comprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; c) carrying out the reforming, thereby converting the carbonaceous feedstock to syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, the reforming carried out such that the amount of the syngas produced in megajoules is larger than the amount of the carbonaceous feedstock fed to the reforming in megajoules; andc) determining, by mass balance, a quantity of at least part of the syngas generated in c) having an energy content that is associated with the renewable electricity of non-biological origin; and d) feeding at least some of the syngas produced in c), including at least some of the hydrogen and at least some of the one or more carbon oxides, to one or more processes to produce fuel comprising the renewable fuel of non-biological origin, wherein the one or more processes comprises reacting hydrogen in the syngas with one or more carbon oxides in the syngas.

28. A method of producing carbon negative renewable fuel of non-biological origin, the method comprising: a) feeding carbonaceous feedstock to reforming, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity, at least some of the electricity being renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energy comprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; c) carrying out the reforming, thereby reacting the carbonaceous feedstock to produce syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, the reforming carried out such that the amount of the syngas produced in megajoules is larger than the amount of the carbonaceous feedstock produced from the reforming in megajoules, at least part of the syngas having an energy content that is associated with the renewable electricity of non-biological origin as determined with mass balance, wherein the energy content attributed to the renewable electricity of non-biological origin is equal to or less thanwherein Esyngas is the megajoules of syngas produced from the reforming, ERENBO is the megajoules of renewable electricity of non-biological origin (RENBO) provided for generating energy for the reforming, Eaii elect is to the megajoules of all electricity providedfor generating energy for the reforming, and Efeedstock refers to the total megajoules of carbonaceous feedstock reacted as a result of the reforming; and d) feeding at least some of the syngas produced from the reforming to one or more processes to produce fuel comprising the carbon negative renewable fuel of non-biological origin.

29. The method according to any one of claims 24 to 28, wherein the part of the syngas that has an energy content that is associated with the renewable electricity of non-biological origin is the hydrogen within the syngas.

30. A method of increasing an amount of renewable hydrogen of non-biological origin produced from a given amount of renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the increase relative to conventional alkaline electrolysis, the method comprising: a) feeding carbonaceous feedstock to reforming, at least some of the carbonaceous feedstock being renewable carbonaceous feedstock; b) generating energy for the reforming from electricity, at least some of the electricity being the renewable electricity of non-biological origin, the energy comprising heat, light, or a combination thereof; c) carrying out the reforming, thereby reacting the carbonaceous feedstock to produce syngas, the syngas comprising hydrogen and one or more carbon oxides, the reforming comprising a water gas shift; and d) feeding syngas produced provided from the reforming to one or more purification processes to produce fluid enriched in hydrogen, wherein steps c) and d) are carried out such that an amount of hydrogen in the fluid enriched in hydrogen produced in megajoules is larger than the amount of the carbonaceous feedstock provided for the reforming in megajoules, the fluid enriched in hydrogen having an energy content that is attributed to the renewable electricity of non-biological origin as determined with mass balance, the energy content being equal to or less thanwherein Ehydrogen is the megajoules of hydrogen produced from the reforming, ERENBO is the megajoules of renewable electricity of non-biological origin (RENBO) provided for generating energy for the reforming, Eaii elect is to the megajoules of all electricity provided for generating energy for the reforming, and Efeedstock refers to the total megajoules of carbonaceous feedstock reacted as a result of the reforming.

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