Expert Witness – Renewable Natural Gas (RNG)

What is a Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) Expert?

A Renewable Natural Gas expert is an expert in renewable energy who focuses on the production, distribution, utilization, and regulatory aspects of RNG. Renewable Natural Gas, also known as biomethane or biogas, is a renewable energy source derived from organic waste such as agricultural waste, landfills, wastewater treatment plants, and organic residues.

RNG Expert Qualifications

A RNG expert will normally have bachelor’s and advanced degrees in fields such as chemical engineering, environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, chemistry, or biology.  They will also deeply understand the renewable natural gas industry, including familiarity with biogas production processes, anaerobic digestion, biomethane upgrading technologies, gas purification, and gas distribution systems. They will have relevant work experience in the renewable energy sector, preferably in the field of biogas or natural gas production. Experience with project development, plant operation, regulatory compliance, and renewable energy policy is beneficial.  These experts should be proficient in data analysis, process optimization, and simulation software commonly used in the renewable energy sector, and be familiar with relevant regulations and standards governing RNG production and distribution.

The RNG Expert Witness

As an expert witness, a renewable natural gas expert often assists in various types of litigation where issues related to RNG production, distribution, regulation, or environmental impact are pertinent. In environmental litigation, they may be called upon to assess the environmental impact of RNG production facilities, including air and water quality, greenhouse gas emissions, and potential effects on ecosystems, or to evaluate compliance with permits or government regulations governing RNG operations. They may be called to review regulatory requirements and standards applicable to RNG production and distribution, and offer opinions on whether industry practices adhere to established regulations and guidelines.

In contractual disputes, the RNG expert may be asked to interpret contracts related to RNG production, supply, or project development agreements, or assess performance under contracts to determine compliance with contractual obligations.  They may also be asked to assist in matters related to spills or accidents at RNG facilities, help evaluate patents and trademarks related to RNG, or offer opinions on the technical aspects of intellectual property rights in the RNG industry.

Conclusion

In each scenario, an RNG expert can use their expertise to provide impartial analysis, expert opinions, and testimony to help the court understand complex technical issues and reach informed decisions. They are crucial in ensuring that litigation proceedings are based on sound scientific principles and industry expertise.

At Lee Enterprises Consulting, our experts are the top specialists in their fields, and expert witness engagements are only a small part of their professional work. We conduct generalized training for all our experts who want to serve as expert witnesses, ensuring they understand their role in a proceeding. We also check with them for any conflicts before an agreement is accepted, and ensure they comprehend Daubert’s expert witness qualifications and their relationship with hiring attorneys.

About Lee Enterprises Consulting

Lee Enterprises Consulting has over 180 experts that can help navigate your bioeconomy needs. If you need assistance with your RNG project(s), please Contact Us.