RNG WORKS 2026 Recap: What the Biogas Industry Expects Next

The short answer: The renewable natural gas industry left RNG WORKS 2026 cautiously optimistic.

Policy uncertainty is still on people’s minds, but developers and investors see progress on the 45Z clean fuel credit as a positive signal, project owners are focused on optimizing existing facilities, and the pipeline of new projects remains strong.

What is RNG WORKS?

RNG WORKS is a technical workshop and trade expo hosted by the Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas, focused on best practices for developing, deploying, and using RNG and other renewable gases.

The 2026 event was held September 15–17 at the Baird Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. ESI exhibited at the event and met with clients, partners, and peers from across the industry.

How does the biogas industry feel about its future?

Cautiously optimistic. The industry has been through real ups and downs over the last few years, and some attendees are still unsure how the market will adapt to legislative change. But across our conversations with landfill owners, technology providers, developers, and investors, the overall tone was constructive. Most people we spoke with expect the next couple of years to be active as projects move from planning into construction.

What is the current status of the 45Z credit for RNG?

Section 45Z is a federal clean fuel production tax credit. It applies to transportation fuel produced after December 31, 2024, and sold before January 1, 2030. Treasury and the IRS published proposed regulations in February 2026, and the credit is significant for RNG producers along with other biofuels. Taxpayers can rely on the proposed rules until final regulations are published. In September 2026, the IRS followed with Notice 2026-53, which set the emissions rates that apply to the credit for calendar year 2026. Final regulations are still pending. Developers and investors we spoke with at RNG WORKS were encouraged by where the rules are heading.

Is there still demand for new RNG projects?

Yes. Conversations with established biogas companies described an industry that still has a strong list of potential projects. At the same time, many owners are shifting attention to getting more out of the facilities they already operate. Better uptime, better gas quality, and more efficient operations are now as important as new construction.

What technology trends came up at RNG WORKS 2026?

Two topics came up repeatedly in our conversations: advances in the design and engineering of membrane separation skids, and new approaches to hydrogen sulfide (H2S) removal. Both have a direct effect on gas quality and operating cost, which is why they matter to owners focused on optimization.

What does this mean for ESI?

ESI supports RNG projects through engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC), operations and maintenance (O&M), and equipment fabrication. We currently have multiple projects underway through our EPC process, with more scheduled for next year. We are also growing our team to meet new O&M opportunities and building blower skids for our project partners.

How can RNG project owners work with ESI?

If you are developing, building, or operating an RNG facility and need a partner for your specific situation, our team would like to talk. Reach out to ESI to start the conversation.