Biogas energy recovery in brazilian wastewater treatment plants: A multi-level perspective on technological transition

Abstract

Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) have significant potential for biogas energy recovery, contributing to both environmental sustainability and economic viability. This study applies the Multi-Level Perspective framework, a widely used approach in transition studies that conceptualizes technological change across three interdependent levels: the sociotechnical landscape (external pressures shaping transitions), sociotechnical regimes (established systems and regulations), and technological niches (emerging innovations). Using documentary analysis, this study examines the technological transition of biogas energy recovery in Brazil from the 1970s to the present. Findings indicate that Brazil’s WWTP biogas production potential reaches 493 million Nm³ /year, with a conversion capacity of 1.18 million MWh of electricity or 375 million Nm³ of biomethane. Despite this potential, biogas adoption has been slow due to regulatory, economic, and infrastructural barriers. The study identifies three key transition phases: (i) early experimentation (1970s–1990s), (ii) regulatory-driven pilot projects (2000s–2010s), and (iii) the current expansion phase (post-2013), characterized by policy incentives such as RenovaBio and net metering. The novelty of this study lies in its systematic assessment of the biogas TT in Brazil’s WWTPs, providing empirical insights into its current "take-off" stage and a timeline indicating that, in an optimistic scenario, the country could reach the acceleration stage by 2033, while in a more realistic scenario, this would occur by 2043. • WWTPs can achieve low carbon or neutrality through biogas energy recovery. • Brazil’s sewage biogas potential is 493 M Nm³ /year. • Regulatory incentives since 2013 have boosted biogas energy recovery in Brazil. • Biogas TT in Brazil is in the 'take-off' stage, with growth expected by 2033.

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