We would like to invite you to join the European Biogas Association third Dig Deep! Webinar “Biogases towards 2040 and beyond: A realistic and resilient path to climate neutrality” on Tuesday 16 April 2024, from 10h to 11h30, to explore Biomethane potential by 2040 and beyond.

In February 2024, the European Commission unveiled its evaluation for an EU 2040 climate target aimed at cutting GHG emissions by 90%. This target reinforces EU’s commitment to combatting climate change and guides our trajectory beyond 2030, with the aim of attaining climate neutrality by 2050.

The webinar will be the occasion to unveil the 2040 Biomethane potential study, discover how biomethane stands out as a cost-effective solution for GHGs reduction in multiple sectors and engage in discussions on leveraging biogases to meet 2040 climate objectives, while navigating the path towards 2050.

Programme

  • 10.00 – 10.10 Welcome and Introduction

Harmen Dekker, CEO, EBA

  • 10h10 – 10h20 Keynote speech

Tbd, Representative European Commission

  • 10h20 – 10h40 Guidehouse study on 2040 potentials for Biomethane

Tbd, Associate Director, Guidehouse

  • 10h40 – 10h55 Achieving the 2040 Climate Target Economically

Daan Peters, Managing Director, Common Futures

  • 10h55 – 11h25 Q&A Session

Giulia Cancian, Secretary General, EBA

  • 11h25 – 11h30 Conclusions

Giulia Cancian, Secretary General, EBA

The European Biogas Association is launching a comprehensive white paper exploring the potential of digestate in fostering healthy soils and advancing sustainable agricultural practices across Europe.

The paper “Exploring digestate’s contribution to healthy soils” examines the multifaceted benefits of integrating digestate into EU agronomic practices. From reducing reliance on costly synthetic fertilisers to promoting effective soil management and restoration, digestate emerges as a key player in addressing mineral imbalances in soils and facilitating efficient carbon capture. Moreover, its utilisation aligns with ongoing developments in EU carbon farming policies, positioning it as a cornerstone in Europe’s transition to a greener, more sustainable agricultural sector.  

The further expansion of biogas production in Europe will see the generation of increasing amounts of digestate. Leveraging its significant advantages will yield benefits for farmers, local communities, and producers alike.

The paper dives into the production of digestate, highlighting what happens in the digester and which types of digestate exist. It also investigates the agricultural properties and application of digestate, exploring its diverse uses across Europe and innovative application methods. Additionally, the paper examines the positive environmental, climatic, and soil health impacts associated with digestate, while also considering market strategies. Finally, it concludes with a regulatory framework analysis for digestate at EU and national level.

The European Biogas Association is launching a comprehensive white paper exploring the potential of digestate in fostering healthy soils and advancing sustainable agricultural practices across Europe.

The paper “Exploring digestate’s contribution to healthy soils” examines the multifaceted benefits of integrating digestate into EU agronomic practices. From reducing reliance on costly synthetic fertilisers to promoting effective soil management and restoration, digestate emerges as a key player in addressing mineral imbalances in soils and facilitating efficient carbon capture. Moreover, its utilisation aligns with ongoing developments in EU carbon farming policies, positioning it as a cornerstone in Europe’s transition to a greener, more sustainable agricultural sector.  

The further expansion of biogas production in Europe will see the generation of increasing amounts of digestate. Leveraging its significant advantages will yield benefits for farmers, local communities, and producers alike.

The paper dives into the production of digestate, highlighting what happens in the digester and which types of digestate exist. It also investigates the agricultural properties and application of digestate, exploring its diverse uses across Europe and innovative application methods. Additionally, the paper examines the positive environmental, climatic, and soil health impacts associated with digestate, while also considering market strategies. Finally, it concludes with a regulatory framework analysis for digestate at EU and national level.

Brussels 22/03/24 Yesterday, Harmen Dekker, the EBA CEO, was appointed member of the bureau of the Group of Experts on Gas of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). This group integrated by eight experts helps UNECE’s member states to deliver on key political commitments such as the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Paris Agreement on climate change.

Harmen Dekker, stated: “I am honoured to have been appointed as a member of the Group of Experts on Gas at the UNECE on behalf of EBA. Sustainable biogases  have an important potential to supply all countries with a secure, affordable and  renewable energy carrier. Biogas and biomethane are a resource addressing several societal issues and bringing circularity and environmental benefits. I look forward to cooperating with fellow experts to drive future developments”.

This expert group enables multi-stakeholder dialogue on sustainable and clean production, distribution, and consumption of gases. The group focuses on policy dialogue and exchange of information and experiences on gas issues of regional relevance, including the role of low carbon, decarbonized, and renewable gases. 

The EBA Secretary General, Giulia Cancian, attended the 11th session of UNECE’s Group of Experts on Gas at the UN Nations Palace in Geneva, where she underlined the role of biomethane for the clean energy transition and its contribution towards security- affordability and sustainability.


Contact

Angela Sainz  – EBA Communications Director sainz@europeanbiogas.eu

In the context of energy transition, the evolution of gas quality standards is essential. Standards provide regulatory coherence, enable increased product safety and quality, lower transaction costs and prices, and ultimately contribute to strengthen the EU’s single market.

Traditionally, gas standards on grid injection and transport use are defined by natural gas properties. Those standards are not always 100% suited to biomethane and may vary across countries. Differentiating between natural gas and biomethane and meticulously defining parameters such as oxygen, sulphur, and carbon dioxide will facilitate biomethane uptake and cross-border trade in the coming years, enabling the sector to deploy 35 bcm by 2030.

A full analysis on the specifications of different standards related to biomethane was carried out in the framework of the GreenMeUp project. The report will be made available shortly and this article summarises its key conclusions. The study also explores the guarantees of origin and standards related to digestates as an end-use product of biomethane.

Gas Quality standard – the oxygen problem

The creation of gas quality standards EN 16726 by CEN (European Committee for Standardisation), exemplifies the collaborative effort towards regulatory alignment and market integration. The standard aims to enhance the interoperability of gas systems across EU member states by establishing technical rules such as gas pressure equipment and operation.

However, challenges persist in achieving uniformity across various countries. This is because the standard is voluntary, and countries can choose different standards if they wish (and often do). The omission of parameters like the Wobbe Index and discrepancies in permissible oxygen levels in the grid, highlight areas of contention for renewables, such as biomethane, from one country to another. For example, in Denmark, the legislation limits oxygen levels for biomethane injected into the grid to 0.5% mol/mol at entry points and transit and 0.1% at storage points. Italy has an oxygen limit up to 0.6% mol/mol for biomethane injected into the gas grid. Whiles France has lower tolerance of 0.001% mol/mol on hourly basis.

Figure 1 Level of Oxygen tolerance in various European countries, Source. ENTSOG

Controlling oxygen levels in the gas grid is important to avoid corrosion in both underground and above-ground facilities, as well as avoiding the formation of “black powder” in high-pressure grids. There are also risks of combustion, change in gas quality due to reaction and oxidation and possible microbial growth in the gas storage environment. But applying different level requirements creates variations in the gas quality and hampers cross-border trade of biomethane.

Increased harmonisation is expected thanks to the revised version of the standard (to be published in 2025) by incorporating normative recommendations for oxygen requirements, Wobbe Index and review the parameters present in the current standard, including hydrogen content and adapted minimum value for relative density, sulphur, and methane number.

Making biomethane the standard

While standard EN16726 defines gas quality standards for natural gas, EN1623-1 and EN1623-2 focus on injection, integration and safe utilisation of biomethane into the natural gas grid and for use in transport. It’s essential to recognise that biomethane possesses unique characteristics that may not be fully addressed by existing standards designed primarily for natural gas. Siloxanes, terpenes, amines, and other components specific to biomethane present distinct challenges that demand specialised attention, which is what both the EN16723 -1 and EN16723-2 cover to ensure a smooth uptake of biomethane.

But then again, oxygen requirements remain the biggest challenge coupled with the different requirements existing for the Wobbe Index, the calorific values and relative density of biomethane. Currently there is a working group collecting information for the revision of both EN 16723-1 and EN 16723-2 standards and will hopefully come with a different approach to address such discrepancies and enhance the easy integration of biomethane into the grid and the overall energy mix towards the deffossilissation of our economy and the achievement of climate-neutrality.


About the author

George Osei Owusu – Project and Technical Officer owusu@europeanbiogas.eu

George Osei Owusu started working as Technical and Project Officer at EBA. He is mainly involved in EU projects on biogas and biomethane, predominantly on market research and the application of biogas in some EU countries, such as GreenMeUp, ALFA and eQATOR. George has a background in Environmental Science with a master’s degree in environmental science and engineering from JUNIA, France.

Published on 13 March 2024

18 April 2024, Brussels

Back in March 2020, the European Commission announced its intention to develop an integrated nutrient management strategy in the Circular Economy Action Plan, “with a view to ensuring more sustainable application of nutrients and stimulating the markets for recovered nutrients”. Later on in 2021, the Communication on Sustainable Carbon Cycles was adopted, promoting green business models which take up sustainable practices, including the recycling of carbon from waste streams.

Against this background, the goal of the seminar is to discuss the drivers and barriers (from the technical, economic, social, legislative and environmental point of view) for the uptake of circular fertilisers in the market from producers’ perspective.

Programme and registration are available here.

We would like to invite you to join the next European Biogas Association Dig Deep! Webinar “Understanding Digestate: Nutrient Cycle, Soil Quality, Energy Resilience” on Wednesday 27 March from 10h to 11h30 CET, to explore the benefits of biogas digestate and the necessary steps to unleash its potential.

The use of digestate as organic fertiliser facilitates nutrient recycling and preserves soil health. Indeed, it contains nutrients, organic matter, and provides many benefits to crops and soil that could be further valorised.

Additionally, the development of a supply of alternative fertilisers reduces dependency on fossil fertilisers and their volatile prices, as well as impact on our food security. 

However, the regulatory framework to facilitate digestate uptake differs between EU Member States. EBA will present during the webinar the results of an assessment to find common policy recommendations and regulatory incentives to ensure market access for a product that is sustainably and locally produced from waste valorisation.

Programme

  • 10.00 – 10.05 Welcome Giulia Cancian, Secretary General, EBA
  • 10h05 – 10h20 Fertilising Products Regulation Jeremy Pinte, Policy officer for fertilising products and chemicals, DG GROW, European Commission
  • 10h20 – 10h35 Exploring Digestate’s contribution to healthy soils Mieke Decorte, Technical Director, EBA
  • 10h35– 10h55 Mapping Digestate policy: Challenges and opportunities Lucile Sever, Policy Officer, EBA
  • 10h55– 11h05 Experience with the FPR Certification for Biogas Residues Ildikó Varga, Expert Biostimulant Specialist, CerTrust 
  • 11h05 – 11h30 Q&A session and wrap up Giulia Cancian, Secretary General, EBA

Injecting biomethane in gas grids today can be a cumbersome process in many European countries. This hinders market access for the main renewable gas available today. However, the current status is set to change thanks to the new Hydrogen and Decarbonised Gas Package. If implemented correctly, the new set of measures will soon remove barriers to injection and unlock access to markets.

The European Biogas Association (EBA), within the framework of the GreenMeUp project, has evaluated regulations regarding grid connection cost sharing, gas quality, metering systems, and injection fees in 28 European countries analysed to understand what it takes today to move biomethane from the plants to the gas pipelines.

Greening gas grids with biomethane

Biomethane plants can connect to either a grid or operate independently. According to the EBA’s database for 2022, 75% of biomethane plants today are connected to the grid (58% to distribution and 17% to transmission grids). Multiple factors are significantly impacting the injection of biomethane into the gas grid, including enabling legislative frameworks, gas quality standards, the application of injection fees, or the negotiation of cost-sharing agreements between grid operators and biomethane producers.

Figure 1. Percentage of biomethane plants connected to the distribution and transport grids in Europe in 2022

Regulations with respect to enabling grid connection for biomethane plants are mostly addressed at the national level, and diverse approaches exist between countries. Additionally, there are two types of gas grids in Europe: transmission grids, managed by Transmission System Operators (TSOs), and distribution grids managed by Distribution System Operators (DSOs). The transmission grid comprises high-pressure pipelines responsible for transporting gas across extensive distances. In contrast, the distribution grid is composed of low-pressure pipelines designed to supply gas to residences, commercial establishments, and industrial facilities within a localised area.

Grid injection checklist: cost-sharing, gas quality, and injection fees

Grid connection costs, referring to the cost of setting up injection stations and constructing gas pipelines from biomethane plants to the existing infrastructure of the gas network, are one of the most important factors influencing biomethane’s injection. The expense associated with grid connection is impacted by the project’s location, the plant’s size and capacity, and the existing network infrastructure. This often necessitates negotiation regarding cost-sharing to undertake such projects and varies among EU countries.

10 out of 28 (EU+UK) countries have grid connection costs shared between biomethane producers and grid operators. France and Germany, for instance, split the connection costs in percentages between the biomethane producer and the grid operator for constructing pipelines from the biomethane plant to the grid injection point. In France, the grid operator covers 60% of it, in Germany, 75%, and the biomethane producer covers the rest. In countries like the Czech Republic and Lithuania, there is no grid connection cost sharing, leading to the biomethane producer bearing the entire financial burden for connecting to the gas grid.

In addition to the cost of constructing pipelines to the injection point, some countries also charge an injection fee, which aims to cover the installation and maintenance of metering and measurement systems, grid access charges, and costs for ensuring gas quality. This fee is applicable in 11 out of the 28 countries analysed but these change depending on the country. In Sweden, the height of the injection fees is determined by the connection cost covered by the biomethane producer. If the biomethane producer covers the total cost of connecting to the gas grid, they do not pay any injection fees. In Belgium, the injection fees are approved by the relevant regulator for the TSOs and DSOs. In Latvia, an injection fee is charged by the transmission system operator to the biomethane producer.

Figure 2. Distribution of European Countries with cost-sharing (Right) and Injection fees (left)

When it comes to gas quality measurement and metering systems, we need to first draw a clear distinction between the two. Gas quality measurement is the process of determining the physical and chemical properties of biomethane, such as its composition and impurities. The metering system is responsible for accurately measuring the volume and energy content of the biomethane being injected into the gas grid. Both sets of information are used to ensure that biomethane meets the set standards of the gas networks and for billing pruposes. Grid operators are mostly responsible for this aspect of biomethane injection. Top of Form

Unlocking Europe’s energy independence through grid access optimisation

The projected growth in biomethane production offers significant potential to meet Europe’s gas demand (up to 62% by 2050 according to EBA Statistical Report 2022), while decreasing reliance on imports. Achieving this potential requires streamlining processes and regulations to facilitate smooth grid access and encourage the widespread substitution of natural gas in our energy infrastructure. Prioritising these actions can accelerate the sustainable energy transition in Europe.


About the author

George Osei Owusu – Project and Technical Officer owusu@europeanbiogas.eu

George Osei Owusu started working as Technical and Project Officer at EBA in August 2022. He is mainly involved in EU projects on biogas and biomethane, predominantly on market research and the application of biogas in some EU countries, as well as the GreenMeUp project. George has background in Environmental Science, with a Master’s degree from JUNIA in France where he specialised in Sustainable Management of Pollution.

Published on 23/02/2024

The 3rd Annual Biogas Forum is an exclusive gathering of industry pioneers and experts. The event will delve into the core topics shaping the biogas landscape, exploring innovative approaches and solutions to tackle current challenges head-on.

This forum isn’t just about discussions. It’s a great opportunity to expand your network and cultivate new business connections. Don’t miss the chance to be part of this dynamic exchange of ideas, where collaboration and expertise converge. Let’s chart the course for the future of biogas together!

EBA Policy Manager Anna Venturini will represent EBA at the Forum.

If you are interested in taking part in the event and you are an EBA member, you can obtain your discount code through the EBA Member Platform.

More information and registration here.

15 March 2024, online

Join this comprehensive online workshop, exploring topics such as the utilisation of digestate substrate as an interesting fertiliser in organic agriculture, and the innovative potential of struvite to enhance phosphorus balances, opening new horizons for sustainable farming practices.

Register here.

Pogramme:

10:00 – 10:10Welcome and introduction, Werner Vogt-Kaute, Naturland e.V.
10:10 – 10:30Presentation of FER-PLAY project, Elisa Gambuzzi, CETENMA
10:30 – 11:00Digestate substrate – an interesting fertilizer for organic agriculture, Lucile Sever, European Biogas Association
11:00 – 11:30Struvite – a new option for improving phosphorus balances in organic agriculture, Wim Moerman, NuReSys
11:30 – 12:00Conclusions and next activities, Werner Vogt-Kaute, Naturland e.V.

Following ten successful editions ACI is delighted to announce the 11th edition of our Gasification Summit, taking place in Ghent, Belgium, on the 20th & 21st March 2024.

The two-day event is dedicated to advancing the knowledge and collaboration in the field of Gasification looking towards the 2030 and 2050 EU targets. Our conference brings together industry leaders, researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders from across the gasification industry to exchange insights, discuss emerging trends, and explore innovative solutions for a sustainable future.

On Tuesday, 19th  March 2024, a limited group of Gasification conference attendees will have a unique opportunity to visit the BioTfueL® project in Dunkirk.  There is no extra charge to join the site visit, although places are limited and allocated on a first come, first served basis. Please confirm if you wish to attend when booking for the conference to avoid disappointment.

Mieke Decorte, EBA Technical Director will represent EBA at the Gasification 2024.

More information and registration here

18-19 June 2024. Hamburg, Germany

The European Gas Technology Conference 2024 (EGATEC 2024) brings together high-level representatives from the European gas industry, universities, companies, and many other stakeholders and provides a platform to exchange knowledge and experience on the challenges and opportunities the energy transition and decarbonization efforts delivers for the gas industry. The EGATEC 2024 will consider and discuss new strategies and innovative ideas to facilitate the gas industry’s contribution to net-zero goals and upscaling state-of-the art technologies including new gases and power-to-gas.

Organized under the auspices of MARCOGAZ and GERG, the conference is scheduled to take place on 18-19 June 2024 in Hamburg. The conference is hosted by the Danish Gas Technology Center (DGC), the German Technical and Scientific Association for Gas and Water (DVGW), Gasunie and supported by the European Research Institute for Gas and Energy Innovation (ERIG) .

More information here

Today, injecting Biomethane in gas grids can be cumbersome process in many European countries. This hinders market access for the main renewable gas available today. However, the current status is set to change thanks to the new Hydrogen Gas Package. If implemented correctly, the new set of measures will soon remove barriers to injection and unlock access to markets. 

This webinar will provide guidance for Biomethane grid connection into gas grids and is particularly suited for project developers, financiers, national regulators and policymakers alike.

We will explore this issue by…

  • Sharing recent data on Biomethane grid injection
  • Providing an overview of the positive changes brought by the recently adopted Hydrogen and Decarbonised Gas Package
  • Diving into national regulations influencing Biomethane grid connection: grid connection, cost sharing, gas quality and injection fees
  • Pinpointing the main differences in the gas quality requirements applied today

Watch the recording of the webinar

Programme:

  • 10.00 – 10.05 Welcome Giulia Cancian, Secretary General, EBA
  • 10h05 – 10h15 Biomethane grid connection today Mieke Decorte, Technical Director, EBA
  • 10h15 – 10h25 Enabling Grid access : Introducing the Hydrogen and Decarbonised Gas Package Anthony Lorin, Senior Policy Analyst, EBA
  • 10h25 – 10h35 Grid injection checklist: Cost-sharing, gas quality, and injection fees George Osei Owusu, Technical and Project Officer, EBA
  • 10h35 – 10h50 Quality requirements for biomethane injection José Alfred Lana Calvo, Chair Working Group Gas Quality, Marcogaz
  • 10h50 – 11h05 Optimization of Biomethane injection José Catela Pequeno Lead Subgroup Task Force 4.4, Biomethane Grid Connection Optimization, Biomethane Industrial Partnership
  • 11h05 – 11h30 Q&A session and wrap up Giulia Cancian, Secretary General, EBA

Brussels 12/02/24 – On the 9th of February, the COREPER adopted the political agreement on CO2 emission performance standards for new heavy-duty vehicles (Regulation EU 2019/1242), missing the opportunity to provide the sector with a methodology able to account for the contribution of renewable fuels, such as biomethane, in the decarbonisation of the segment.

Despite the emergence of climate mitigation policies, EU road transport emissions increased over the last decades, and are projected to decrease below the targets set by the Regulation. Even with 50% sales of battery electric heavy-duty vehicles (BEV HDVs) in 2030, about 90% of the rolling fleet will use an internal combustion engine (ICE) powertrain. It is thus of paramount importance that this fleet is allowed to run on renewable fuels to drastically reduce their emissions.

A Carbon Correction Factor (CCF) and a CO2 Neutral Fuels methodology are straightforward solutions supported by the industry to allow for the fast decarbonisation of road transport embracing all renewable vectors, including biomethane, and offering more security against market disruption, over-reliance on third countries, consumer cost increases and employment risks.

The final agreement does not provide for the right drivers to decarbonise the heavy-duty segment rapidly and cost-efficiently: while the biogas and biomethane industry is asked to significantly scale-up its production, the agreement closes the door to biomethane use in the segment. Indeed, road transport is not only one of the most important end-uses for biomethane at present, but it is also vital to the scaleup and uptake of this sustainable energy in hard to abate sectors, including maritime and aviation.

Following consultation with stakeholders, the Commission will, within a year from entry into force of this regulation, assess the role of a methodology for registering HDV exclusively running on CO2 neutral fuels, in conformity with Union law and with Union climate neutrality objective.

Giulia Laura Cancian, EBA Secretary General said: “The biomethane sector is a solid and readily available solution to swiftly curb transport emissions. Unfortunately, the current agreement does not recognise the great contribution of this sustainable vector. Nevertheless, EBA looks forward to contributing to the assessment of the role of a CCF and of methodology for registering HDVs exclusively running on CO2 neutral fuels.”


Contact

Anna Venturini – EBA Policy Manager venturini@europeanbiogas.eu

Angela Sainz – EBA Communications Director sainz@europeanbiogas.eu

13 – 15 February 2024. Fira Valencia, Spain

At eMobility Expo World Congress, witness the latest innovations and advancements in sustainable vehicles, micro mobility solutions, logistics practices, maritime transport, air mobility, smart urban mobility systems, rail and bus networks, and clean energy technologies. Immerse yourself in a comprehensive showcase that unites these sectors under one roof, illustrating their collective impact on shaping the sustainable future of transportation of people and goods.

If you are interested in taking part in the event and you are an EBA member, you can obtain 20% discount code through the EBA Member Platform.

Information and registration here.

The seventh edition of the Biomethane Congress is coming in May 2024. This year the publisher of Magazyn Biomasa invites representatives of the biogas and biomethane sector to Earth Hall in Poznań on 21-22 May 2024. Due to the fast-growing interest in biomethane around the world, increased by the geopolitical situation and Russian aggression on Ukraine, Poland is also becoming more and more invested in this hot topic. Especially in the last months, the lawmakers seem to have noticed biomethane’s great potential and the role it can play in ensuring the country’s energy security.

During the 7th Biomethane Congress we will look closely at this fascinating subject and try to answer the question of whether a breakthrough awaits us.

This industry meeting is for:

  • Investors in new biogas plants
  • Owners of operating biogas installations
  • Technologists and managers of waste biogas plants and treatment plants
  • Owners of large farms and agri-food processors
  • Representatives of fuel, transport and energy-intensive industries
  • Technology and equipment suppliers
  • Energy sector representatives
  • Polish and European biogas associations
  • Representatives of state and local government administration

Information and registration here.

If you are interested in taking part in the event and you are an EBA member, you can obtain 5% discount code through the EBA Member Platform.

Why participate?

The demand for gas is very high in Spain and throughout Europe, the renewable gas sector should only worry about producing with guarantees and quality. The current situation of the fossil gas market, with prices constantly rising, uncertainty regarding the stability of supply and skyrocketing emission rights, is forcing the energy transition to be accelerated.

Industry experts predict that by the end of 2023 Spain will have 12 biomethane plants in operation and another 30 will be in proyect phase.

At present, there is a clear political commitment in Spain for these technologies that had not been manifested to date.

Spain is already working to define a stable framework to make biomethane development a reality, as required by the European Green Deal , the National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan and the draft Law on Climate Change and Energy Transition.

Information and registration here.

05 – 06 June 2024, Lithuania

Run in partnership with Klaipedos Nafta, the conference brings together senior decision makers from governments, energy providers, port and terminal operators, utilities and other key stakeholders. The event addresses the challenges and solutions for energy security, pricing, diversification of supply across the Baltic region. Join an international audience from across Eastern and Western Europe, North America, the Middle East, and Asia and delve into new business opportunities as new energy markets and infrastructure are built across the Baltics. Find out how harmonisation is being created across the Baltic sea region to secure long term energy provision and the adoption of decarbonised energy sources.  

EBA Policy Manager Anna Venturini will represent EBA at the Forum.

If you are interested in taking part in the event and you are an EBA member, you can obtain 20% discount code through the EBA Member Platform.

Programme and registration available here.

23 – 25 April 2024. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Connect with 500+ gas professionals to find the solutions and consensus to energy security across the continent with presentations on gas and LNG projects, managing volatile costs, ensuring reliable and affordable supply, infrastructure, low carbon solutions, trading and much more.  

Benefit from two days of content with 7 streams, 100+ sessions plus 2 additional summit days on the market realities for trading and global LNG supply.

EBA CEO Harmen Dekker will represent EBA at the Flame Conference.

If you are interested in taking part in the event and you are an EBA member, you can obtain 20% discount code through the EBA Member Platform.

Programme and registration available here.

25 – 26 September. Copenhagen, Denmark

The 2024 edition focuses on excellent speakers with highly sought presentations, interesting industry panel discussion, technical insights and many hours of networking.

Main topic & key points

  • Overview of European and national policies and regulations
  • Revitalizing Green Energy: The Impact of the Revised Renewable Energy Directive on Biomethane
  • The status of the BIP in shaping European regulations
  • Reflecting on the 35bcm target: Assessing progress and future directions post- RePowerEU
  • Securing Sustainable Growth: Financing Strategies for Biomethane Innovation
  • From the plan to the full scale production – how to plan and execute succesful biogas project
  • Role of gas infrastructure in decarbonising EU energy sector 
  • The newest technological advancements in Biogas to Biomethane Upgrading
  • BioLNG production: what makes a viable case vs. grid injection
  • Hydrothermal gasification and 2G biomethane production production: status on technologies
  • Challenges and opportunities faced by biogas producers
  • The latest solutions ensuring the safety of biomethane production and transportation

And many more…

More information here

Biogas sector necessary to strengthen system resilience

Brussels 07/02/24 The European Biogas Association (EBA) welcomes the European Commission’s Communication on the 2040 Climate Target, which proposes a 90% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This target represents a clear and necessary response to the ongoing climate crisis. In particular, EBA emphasises the readiness of the biogas and biomethane sectors to contribute significantly to achieving this target.

Biogases are a crucial corner stone of a carbon-neutral and competitive European economy and, as recognised in the Communication, our sector is a “win-win solution” that must be prioritised to maintain and strengthen the EU’s competitiveness and climate mitigation agenda.

Nevertheless, EBA regrets that biogas and biomethane play a secondary role towards the 2040 target compared to other energy vectors, and their important contribution to the energy system integration and flexibility is overlooked.

Biogases are so much more than a mere sustainable energy carrier: produced and consumed in the EU, these green gases provide ready-available solutions to defossilise the EU economy (including hard to abate sectors, such as industry and transport), while contributing to the EU’s energy flexibility, resilience, and independence. They can help us make optimal use of all our resources valorising waste, supporting the development of a circular bioeconomy, and promoting the agroecological transition.

The projected potential for the sustainable production of biomethane from anaerobic digestion (AD) and gasification in Europe by 2050 is 151 bcm. Considering the declining gas consumption, biomethane can provide for the majority of the demand determining the decarbonisation of the grid while still contributing to transport decarbonisation towards 2050.

Harmen Dekker, EBA CEO, stated: “It is now the time for the EU to implement pragmatic solutions which are greatly contributing to GHG emissions reductions. Targets are at reach for our communities and citizens if we speed up action and cut red tape. The 2040 target can be the starting point to build an actionable plan towards 2040, featuring a key role for biogases as a cost-competitive and readily available solution.


Contact

Angela Sainz  – EBA Communications Director sainz@europeanbiogas.eu

The new edition of Biogas Italy, the CIB event, is back.

Biogas Italy is the benchmark conference for agricultural biogas and biomethane in Italy, organized by CIB-Consorzio Italiano Biogas. The new edition will take place in Rome on 13 and 14 march 2024, at Salone delle Fontane (Via Ciro il Grande 10/12, Rome). The main theme is “THINK NEGATIVE, Carbon negative agriculture to produce more consuming less”.

The new edition of Biogas Italy aims to build a strategy shared with all stakeholders in the sector to give strength and consistency to the agro-ecological and energy transition, looking beyond 2026.

The guidelines are multiple from supporting the development of entrepreneurial initiatives for the production of biomethane, in its various forms (compressed, liquefied, with CO2 recovery), to the production of electricity and heat from biogas, to identifying forms of support for carbon-negative farms.

More information here.

17 – 18 April 2024. Antwerp, Belgium

The European Green Steel Industry Summit 2024 is a pivotal event in the sustainable steel production sector. The summit promises to convene leading experts, industry innovators, policymakers, and stakeholders in a collaborative effort to accelerate the green transformation within the steel sector.

With a focus on reducing carbon emissions and advancing sustainable manufacturing techniques, the summit aims to address critical challenges faced by the steel industry while paving the way for a more environmentally conscious future. Key themes of discussion are anticipated to include carbon-neutral steel production, innovative technologies, circular economy principles, and regulatory frameworks fostering sustainability.

More information here.

15 – 16 May. Copenhagen, Denmark.

During this 2-day event rich in presentations from industry end-users and running projects case studies will give you a comprehensive overview of the CO2 Capture. You can hear experts focusing on new regulations, changing market situation and more. Get a possibility to network and exchange ideas with industry leaders.

Main topic & key points:

  • EU ETS Carbon pricing – Current status
  • Building on Fit-for-55: what is next for CCU in EU policies: REPower EU plan, RED III
  • Accessing the 40bn EU Innovation Fund and other EU instruments
  • Financing and investing in the CCUS sector
  • Legal framework for CO2 capture and storage in production & transport
  • The road to efficient international CCS infrastructure
  • Sourcing CO₂ for utilization projects
  • Proven Carbon Capture Solutions, CAPEX & OPEX of carbon capture systems
  • What does it take to decarbonize the hard-to-abate industries: CCUS perspective
  • Creating CCUS value chains for industries
  • Onshore and offshore CO2 storage – challenges and possibilities
  • CO2 transportation and storage project
  • And many more…

More information available here.

Biogases, including biohydrogen, are emerging as key players in the search for sustainable energy solutions. They can help decarbonise energy-intensive manufacturing processes, transportation and other sectors in need for defossilisation. An increasing number of innovators, researchers and industry experts is testing the solutions that biohydrogen can bring into the net-zero equation.

This form of green hydrogen is produced from biological feedstocks. The unique advantage of using biohydrogen technologies as renewable energy carriers is the achievement of negative emissions. This happens when more CO2 is being taken out of the atmosphere than added into it. As biohydrogen technologies continue to evolve, their transformative potential becomes more and more apparent, paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient energy future.

Biohydrogen production in the European biogas industry

The European biogas sector has been exponentially growing, with over 20,000 plants generating 223 TWh of energy in 2022. The industry is at an important turning point, transitioning towards biomethane production. In fact, the future energy mix will be formed by a co-existence of renewable gases, where biogas, biomethane and hydrogen have complementary roles. Biohydrogen production from biogas can further increase the versatility and flexibility of biogas plants, by diversifying the energy products and thus potential off-takers of anaerobic digestion plants.

Biohydrogen refers to hydrogen obtained from biogenic sources. It can be produced from biogas, but also from a range of other production routes (Figure 1).  

The European Biogas Association (EBA) is involved in TITAN, a R&D project exploring an innovative biohydrogen production technology. TITAN involves the direct conversion of biogas, by simultaneous biogas cracking and carbon dioxide dry reforming, to obtain biohydrogen and solid carbon materials. The project addresses the unique needs of small, remote, or unsubsidised biogas plants, offering an alternative path to valorise biogas efficiently and in a cost-competitive way.

Figure 1. Overview of biohydrogen production technologies

Technologies that directly convert biogas into biohydrogen, such as the TITAN technology, find relevance in market segments or areas where grid connections are costly, making it ideal for plants far from the gas network. As financial incentives for electricity-only biogas plants in some areas are being phased-out, these technologies step in as a viable option, ensuring a more efficient and diversified renewable gas production with biohydrogen. They also hold promise in areas with hydrogen and carbon-intensive industries, becoming a strategic choice for existing plants in need for decarbonisation in synergy within local markets. Biohydrogen particularly stands out in rural areas, as a locally sourced green energy solution, reducing costs and issues associated with hydrogen transport.  Finally, in the context of broader energy mix scenarios, biohydrogen from biogas facilitates allows the simultaneous deployment of complementary energy solutions, aligning with the EU’s decarbonisation goals.

Bio-hydrogen: a game changer for green industries

In 2020, Europe’s hydrogen demand hit 8.7 Mt. Most of the hydrogen demand went to refineries and ammonia industries (49% and 31% respectively), while the chemical industry used 13% of the total hydrogen demand. From 2015 to 2050, the Clean Hydrogen Monitor estimates a sevenfold rise in hydrogen demand. By 2030, industrial projects plan a total consumption of 5.2 Mt hydrogen/year. These energy intensive sectors, however, are slowly shifting from fossil to green and biohydrogen utilisation, aligning with emission reduction goals. In this context, biohydrogen emerges as a game-changer energy source and carbon removal renewable gas.

The industry of iron and steel is a prime example of an industrial sector in urgent need for defossilisation. Renewable electricity alone is not sufficient to decarbonise the sector and the use of biohydrogen can effectively double the carbon credit of hydrogen-based steelmaking routes. Likewise, in the chemical industry, the use of biohydrogen as feedstock can stir up steam methane reforming (SMR)-based ammonia production. The use of bio-hydrogen in that process can substantially reduce associated carbon emissions and facilitate the production of carbon-negative ammonia with carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies. The ethylene synthesis process, reliant on hydrogen-based heat generation, sees a remarkable reduction of its carbon footprint using carbon-negative biohydrogen.

On top of the industrial applications, hydrogen-carrier molecules such as biomethane, biomethanol and bioammonia offer a solution to transport hydrogen cost effectively. Biomethane and hydrogen integration in Europe’s energy mix show promising synergies in terms of seasonal storage and grid utilisation. Bioammonia serves as a direct and biologically produced hydrogen carrier, offering versatility in energy applications. Similarly, biomethanol appears as an eco-friendly fuel for hard-to-decarbonise transport, presenting safety advantages and potential for diverse downstream products.

A promising solution for Europe’s renewable energy landscape

Biohydrogen technologies provide promising solutions for Europe’s renewable energy landscape. Especially biogas market segments facing challenges, such as large distance to gas network or the phasing out of incentives for electricity-only biogas plants, will benefit from these technologies. Biohydrogen not only facilitates industrial decarbonisation but also aligns with broader energy mix scenarios, contributing to the EU’s decarbonisation goals. As biohydrogen continues to advance, the next frontier in renewable energy unfolds, promising a more resilient and eco-friendly future.


About the author

Marina Pasteris – Technical and Project Manager: Marina Pasteris joined EBA in October 2021. Her role involves providing technical expertise and data to support EBA’s policy and communication activities. Her main responsibilities include the analysis of biogas and biomethane markets data for EBA publications, overseeing EBA activities on EU-funded projects and in areas such as biohydrogen, biogenic CO2, circular economy and digestate.

Published on 24/01/2024

The Norwegian Biogas Conference 2024 will be held in Oslo on the 12th and 13th of March. This year’s theme focusses on “From Waste Problems to Sustainable Solutions.” The conference will explore the potential within the Norwegian biogas sector. The organisers anticipate the participation of 200 individuals from the Norwegian biogas industry and look forward to welcoming as many European associates as possible.

EBA CEO Harmen Dekker will represent EBA at the Norwegian Biogas Conference 2024.

Programme and registration (in Norwegian).

The European Biogas Association has just launched its activity report 2023, showcasing a year of advocacy for advancing the production and utilisation of sustainable biogases across the continent.

Throughout the year, the EBA Secretariat actively worked to secure favourable policy conditions for the biogases sector, engaging in various files such as the Renewable Energy Directive, Gas Decarbonisation Package, Net Zero Industry Act, CO2 Standards for Heavy Duty Vehicles, Soil Monitoring Directive, Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive, and more. 

Read our report to get an overview of EBA activities in 2023:

  • EBA milestones in 2023
  • A growing share of biogases
  • EU advocacy
  • Focus on tech and innovation
  • Strategic impact and visibility
  • European Biomethane Week ‘Countdown to 2030: from targets to action!’
  • EBA people
  • Member care


Members-only networking event

We are pleased to announce the launch of the first edition of Biogases Business Day – an exciting networking event designed exclusively for EBA members looking to establish new business partnerships and strengthen existing relations within the biogases sector.

The Biogases Business Day will bring together key players from the biogases value chain at the Château de Montvillargenne in Paris, offering a unique platform on 20 – 21 March to exchange ideas, explore collaboration opportunities, and foster the advancement of biogases initiatives.

This event is SOLD OUT

What’s on the agenda?

20 March
17:00 Arrival and check-in
18:00 Welcome by Harmen Dekker, EBA CEO, followed by a cocktail
19:30 Dinner

21 March
9:00 Welcome by Harmen Dekker, CEO at EBA
9:10 Insights session – part 1
Regulatory ingredients for a dynamic market – Tim Hamers, Secretary General at European Renewable Gas Registry – ERGaR
Biomethane: customers and trade driven market – Roland Kok, Senior Consultant at Route to Market
Biomethane production scale-up: key factor to demonstrate the sector’s potential to decarbonize end uses – Olivier Guerrini, Vice President Biogas BU, TotalEnergies
10:30 Coffee break
11:00 Insights session – part 2
Decarbonising industry with biomethane: Business case for ceramics – Lukas Pataky, Commodity Manager Energy at Wienerberger
Biogases business in Eastern Europe: How to go about and finance your projects – Dimitri Koufos, Associate Director at European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
Biomethane (business) opportunities in Spain: myth or reality? – Naiara Ortiz De Mendíbil, Secretary General at Spanish Gas Association – Sedigas
12:30 Lunch
13:20 Networking session
15:30 EBA update by Harmen Dekker and goodbye drink

Join the following companies that already confirmed their participation:

AgriBioSource * AFS Energy * Akola Group * Axpo Iberia * BIOGEST * bmp greengas GmbH * Caely Renewables B.V. * Capwatt Italia SRl * Carbotech * Cargill * CMA-CGM * DESOTEC * DMT Environmental Technology * EBRD * EBRO Armaturen Gebr. Broeer GmbH * EGG ENERGY * Eiffel Investment Group * Engie * ENI – Enilive * EviTec Biogas AG * ERGaR * Ferrero * Future Biogas Ltd * FORNOVO GAS S.p.A. * Gasunie * Green Create * Herisson * Hitachi Zosen Inova * iogen * Iona Capital Limited * Knauf * Nature Energy * Nordsol * Olyx BV * Nordsol * PepsiCo * Pietro Fiorentini * Prodeval * PURAGEN * Refuels – Renewable Energy Fuels B.V * revis bioenergy GmbH* Rika Biotech Ltd * Route to Market * Sebigas Renewable Energy srl * Sedigas * STX Commodities BV * Suma Capital * SWING Biomethane * Tecno Project Industriale S.r.l. * TER’GREEN * TerraX Srl/GmbH * TotalEnergies * UGS * VARO * VTTI New Energies * Wienerberger 

This event is sponsored by TotalEnergies and DESOTEC.

02 – 04 September. Stuttgart, Germany

The International Conference Progress in Biogas VI from IBBK aims to bridge the gap between technology and end user.

Topics of the conference will be:

  • Small biogas plants (household plants + liquid manure plants)
  • Slurry- solid manure
  • Biowaste, fecal sludge and residues
  • Utilization of biogas (heating, cooking, biomethane, etc.)
  • Power to gas
  • Biogas as fuel
  • Substrate processing
  • Flexible biogas production
  • Climate protection contribution through biogas plant
  • Bioeconomy (fermentation products management, nutrient recycling, fiber production, biorefinery)
  • Biohydrogen (Bio-CCU and CCS)
  • Innovations and Start-ups

More information and registration here.

The International Conference & Expo on Biofuels and Bioenergy, taking place on April 11-12 in Rome, is organised in coordination with generous support and cooperation from passionate academicians and Organizing Committee members with the theme “Endorsing New Developments in Biofuels and Bioenergy for a Better Environment”.

Leading delegates, scientists, researchers, scholars, professors, energy experts are invited to take part in this event to witness various scientific discussions and bestow future improvement in the field of biofuels. The intention of Biofuels Expo 2024 is to convey the society the most recent research results and advances in the field of Biofuels and Bioenergy. This conference will highlighting the information research on its impact on outcomes through oral demonstration and presentation.

More information and registration here.

Get ready for the 2nd European Biomethane Week from 21 to 25 October 2024!

A wide variety of activities will be deployed in Brussels and other European countries. The flagship event of the week will be organised in Brussels on 22-24 October.

Why should you be there?

As we prepare for a new turn of EU elections, this year is pivotal for affirming the leadership of the biogases sector as the pragmatic pathway to climate-neutrality. Investing in biogas technologies means advancing energy and food security, reducing dependency on external suppliers, combatting climate change, and supporting the implementation of a circular economy.

This event aims to break down barriers, enhance market access, and chart clear trajectories towards the ambitious targets set by the sector with collaborative efforts from industry, policymakers, researchers, and civil society.

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to engage with a whole range of stakeholders involved in the biogases value chain, gain inspirational insights on the scale up of the sector and fresh expertise on the production of biogases and their multiple applications. Join us at the European Biomethane Week and be part of the solution to build a European bioeconomy.

Who else will join?

  • High-level stakeholders from the renewable gas industry.
  • Representatives from key areas for the development of the biogas industry, including the transport and agrobusiness sectors, as well as financers and end-users.
  • Researchers and academia working on innovative renewable gas technologies to develop our industry.
  • Influential policy-makers for the biogas sector in Europe.
  • Media experts.

Book your seat now!

24 – 27 June 2024. Marseille, France

During the conference, over 1500 experts from 80 countries from both academia and industry share and discuss ground-breaking ideas, technologies, applications, and solutions for the sourcing, production, and utility of biomass.

Some of the scientific topics that will be covered are: sustainable resources for decarbonising the economy; biomass technologies and conversion for bioenergy; biomass technologies and conversion to intermediate bioenergy carriers and products of the bioeconomy; bioenergy integration; and bioeconomy sustainability, impacts and policies. Industrial sessions will focus on issues such as key developments in integrated industrial process chains, successful strategies and policies for the industrialisation of renewable energy production, industrial power and heat processes and systems, deployment of biomass in energy systems and biorefining, and bioenergy and algal biorefinery.

The Technical Programme is coordinated by DG Joint Research Centre of the European Commission.

More information and registration here.

If you are interested in taking part in the event and you are an EBA member, you can obtain 10% discount code through the EBA Member Platform.

The 3rd edition of the SOFIE conference on organic and organo-mineral fertilisers industry will take place on the 16-17 January 2024, Brussels (Plaza Hotel) & hybrid.

SOFIE is the only industry meeting place for organic-carbon-based fertiliser producers, distributors, advisory, technology suppliers.

SOFIE3 will cover:

  • policy and market
  • agronomic benefits, in particular field trials and case studies
  • processing from divers input materials to consistent products for farmers
  • application best practices, e.g. co-application with mineral fertilisers, biostimulants
  • environment, carbon benefits, LCA, Circular Economy
  • business models and product success stories

EBA Policy Officer Lucile Sever and EBA Technical & Project Officer Marina Pasteris will represent EBA.

More information and registration here.

Brussels, 11 December 2023 – The biomethane industry regrets lack of ambition for biomethane on Gas Regulation deal reached last Friday, as the Council’s views prevailed over the provisions put forward by the European Parliament. The last trilogue on the Gas Regulation ended up with a missed opportunity to set higher ambition for biomethane, as lawmakers dropped out the EU biomethane target put forward by the European Parliament.

Giulia Laura Cancian, EBA Secretary General said: “This a missed chance for a clear driver for biomethane growth as sought initially by the European Parliament. An EU biomethane target, including an indicative one, would have been a significant political signal for the biomethane industry, but also for fuel suppliers and industries looking for alternatives to fossil fuels.”

A bottom-up approach to favor biomethane injection into gas networks, as initially proposed by the European Parliament, was likewise missing in the final proposal. Such a measure would contribute to efficient energy planning at local and regional level. This should be further explored in the framework of the revision of the Governance Regulation.

Considering geopolitical tensions and increased natural gas imports into the European Union (EU), biomethane production is a relevant and mature solution to secure EU gas supply, while creating local value and jobs. Estimates conclude that at least 35 bcm of biomethane could be produced in 2030 and around 150 bcm by 2050, based on the available sustainable feedstocks. At a national level, Denmark has already 37-40% of biomethane in its gas supply and is aiming for a 100% by 2030. In some regions, the share of biomethane in the gas network during summer was up to 100%.

On the positive side, the agreed Gas Regulation includes a 100% tariff discount for the injection of biomethane into networks. This will improve the business case of biomethane producers. However, based on the new deal, national regulators should go further by exploring cost-sharing mechanisms for building the grid connection, which entails major financial cost for project developers.


Contact

Angela Sainz – EBA Communications Manager sainz@europeanbiogas.eu

Discover how electrification technologies support the EU’s climate goals

Agenda Highlights:

  • Discussion on challenges and innovative catalytic reactor solutions for the process industry
  • Participating Horizon Europe Projects: e-CODUCT, EReTech, ēQATOR, TITAN and STORMING

Hosted by:

Organizer: Ghent University [e-CODUCT]

Co-organizers: Technical University of Munich [EReTech], SINTEF [ēQATOR], CENTRE NATIONAL DE LA RECHERCHE SCIENTIFIQUE CNRS [TITAN] and UNIVERSITY OF BOLOGNA [STORMING]

Why Attend?

  • Gain insights into electrification’s role in realizing the Green Deal
  • Explore CO₂ emission reduction strategies
  • Engage in discussions with experts from leading projects

More information and registration here.

Brussels 05/12/23 Biomethane production in Europe grew by almost 20% in 2022 compared to the previous year, according to data from the new edition of the EBA Statistical Report launched today. Meanwhile, the EU dependency on natural gas imports went from 83% in 2021 to 97% in 2022.

With gas import dependency on the rise together with the pressing climate emergencies, sustainable biogases production in Europe is of strategic importance: each Euro invested in biogases will remain in the European economy and provide an additional value of 50% before 2030 that will also stay within our economy.” Says Harmen Dekker, EBA’s CEO.

Europe’s biogases production (combined biogas and biomethane) in 2022 amounted to 21 bcm. This is more than Poland’s entire inland natural gas demand and represents 6% of the EU’s natural gas consumption in 2022. Biomethane production alone grew from 3.5 bcm in 2021 to 4.2 bcm in 2022. In the case of Denmark, the share of biomethane in the gas grid was close to 40% and there are plans to increase this production to substitute 100% of the gas demand before 2030.

The versatility of biomethane as a renewable energy source is reflected in its balanced distribution pattern across end-uses, all in urgent need for decarbonisation: 22% was used for buildings in 2022, whereas a further 14% was used in industry, 19% for transport and 15% for power generation.

“It is imperative to think how to clear out our dependence on fossil fuels and energy imports by accelerating deployment of renewable energies made in Europe, rather than locking in other dependencies.” Reminds Giulia Cancian, EBA’s Secretary General.

Europe’s reliance on imports poses risks also for food security, due to our dependence on imported chemical fertilisers. According to EBA data, Europe produced 31 Mt (DM) of digestate in 2022 and could already cover 15% of EU nitrogen-based fertilisers demand[1]. This could save 10 Mt CO2 equivalent and 2 bcm of natural gas consumption.

Reaching the 35 bcm of biomethane production requires a sustained annual growth rate of around 30% in biomethane production capacity.” Explains to Mieke Decorte, EBA’s Technical and Project Manager. Such a level of growth is achievable, but needs to be supported by optimal market conditions. Coherent planning of biomethane potential and faster permissions processes are the first steps to encouraging market and project developers to operate at a significantly faster pace.


[1] Assuming an EU-27 N-fertiliser demand of around 11 Mt/year

Get the EBA Statistical Report 2023

The EBA Statistical Report 2023 is available for free for all EBA members and upon purchase for external parties. If you are a policymaker or a member of the press and would like a copy, please contact Vinciane Perot at perot@europeanbiogas.eu

The EBA Statistical Report is the only detailed publication tracking the state of play of biogas and biomethane production and use across Europe every year, and covering the latest updates in multiple national markets. The report has become a reference publication, engaging with policymakers, market developers, investors and consumers in our continent.

The EBA Statistical Report 2023 is available for free for all EBA members and upon purchase for external parties. Please contact Vinciane Perot for further details at perot@europeanbiogas.eu.

Watch the recording of the launch webinar

18 – 19 June 2024. Brussels, Belgium

The event will bring together leading producers, suppliers, regulators and other engaged organisations over a two-day period. High-level speakers, experts in their field, will address a range of topical issues relating to the biogas sector.

The International Biogas Congress & Expo will cover:

  • European and global biogas markets and drivers
  • How the EU’s Fit-for-55 package and REPower plan can benefit the biogas sector
  • Decarbonisation within road transport through biogas
  • Updates on the latest policies and regulations affecting the industry
  • How technology can improve performance and plant efficiencies
  • Plus much, much more over the two days of the conference.

Brought to you by Bioenergy Insight magazine, the leading international biogas magazine, this year’s conference will be held in Brussels, Belgium and co-located with the new for 2024 SAF Summit and the renowned Biofuels International Conference & Expo, now in its 15th year, making this series of bio events our largest gathering yet of bio related companies, giving participants unrivalled coverage.

Programme and registration here.

Brussels, 27 November 2023

Subject: Invitation to Open Dialogue on Biomethane Targets and Sustainable Practices

The European Biogas Association shares your commitment to advancing the goals of food security, sustainable land use, clean transportation and climate change mitigation. Through this open letter, we would like to reiterate our proposal for an open dialogue addressing your concerns associated with a 35 billion cubic meter (bcm) biomethane target.

Sustainability and circularity are prerequisites of the growth of our sector. For this reason, when calculating the potential of the future, we believe it is paramount to carefully factor in possible competition of uses, societal changes, and the utilisation of feedstocks that are currently creating an environmental cost if not treated (biowaste, urban and industrial wastewaters). 

We believe that collaboration and open communication are essential to finding solutions that meet the collective goals of our organisations.

While we acknowledge your interest in the EBA reports, we understand that you may still have lingering concerns and questions. However, we regret that no dialogue has been sought, nor questions were addressed to the authors of such reports. To address these concerns more comprehensively, we invite your coalition and all interested civil society groups to engage in open dialogue with experts in the field. We will be more than happy to facilitate this exchange.

We believe in a fossil free future with an energy system based on complementarity of renewable energy solutions. The report you have been recently disseminating (BIOMETHANE: Setting a target that is fit for food and the climate (feedbackeurope.org), recognizes a niche role for biomethane in the future.  However, multiple fact-based and scientific studies show significantly higher sustainable potential for biomethane than what your report mentions, as it does not yet consider biogases production from feedstocks such as industrial wastewaters, sequential cropping, biomass from marginal and contaminated lands[1] and synthetic methane production.

The reference to the JRC study[2] mentioned in your report is misleading, as this report calculates a total sustainable biogases potential of 40 bcm by 2030[3], of which 16 bcm is attributed to biogas-CHPs and 24 bcm to upgrading facilities. The report allocates substrates to different technologies as a simplification of practice: whereas biogas from manure is attributed to biogas cogeneration plants in the JRC study, in practice it is also used in plants that feed biomethane into the gas grid.

As part of our invitation to dialogue we would like to propose a visit to one or more biomethane plants to witness firsthand the agronomic practices that facilitate the transition to more sustainable agriculture, the methane emissions abatement in biowaste management or the current techniques to address methane slip (not only environmentally problematic but also impacting the economic operations). Field visits will provide valuable insights into the processes and technologies involved, such as anaerobic plug-flow reactors or silo fermenters specifically designed for dry feedstocks, allowing for a more informed discussion about the agro-ecological, waste management and climate mitigation role of biomethane production.

Our intention is not only to address your concerns but also to build a collaborative relationship that fosters ongoing communication and knowledge exchange. Together, we can work towards a common understanding and identify the variety of solutions that align with our shared objectives of promoting sustainability and mitigating climate change.

We look forward to the opportunity to engage in a meaningful dialogue with you and are convinced that our combined efforts can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Sincerely,

Harmen Dekker, EBA CEO

Giulia Cancian, EBA Secretary General


[1] As put forward in the REPowerEU Biomethane Action Plan

[2] Assistance to assessing options improving market conditions for biomethane and gas market rules. (2021)

[3] And 101 by 2050

10 – 11 April 2024. Lyon, France

In all sectors Transport, Buildings, Manufacturing, Food… – in France and in Europe, massive investments and profound transformations in the modes of energy production and consumption are already taking place and are set to accelerate.

Conceived in 2021, MIX.E, the energy mix event, is moving ahead. Decarbonising, decentralising and digitalising… From Technology to Use, it will accompany these systemic transformations and pave the way for companies and local authorities looking for operational solutions and strategic partnerships.

Energy specialist, manufacturers, local and regional authorities, researchers, funders & institutions: on the way to systems that are more autonomous, efficient and sustainable, but also – and the word is in everyone’s minds – more virtuous…

EBA Secretary General Giulia Cancian will represent EBA at the conference.

Programme and registration available here.

Brussels, 21 November 2023 – On the 21st of November, the European Parliament adopted its Report on the Revision of Regulation EU 2019/1242 setting CO2 emission performance standards for new heavy-duty vehicles, a milestone legislation to curb the segment emissions. EBA welcomes the European Parliament recognition of biomethane’ significant contribution to the decarbonization of the sector by introducing a CO2 Neutral Fuel definition in line with the sustainability criteria of the Renewable Energy Directive. Regrettably, the adopted Report does not include a mechanism to account for the contribution of renewable fuels, such as biomethane, in the decarbonisation of the transport sector. Transport operators and vehicle manufacturers should be provided with a legislative framework that encourages them to consider cleaner fuel alternatives to fossil fuels immediately available today. Sustainable biomethane as a transport fuel provides a ready-available, local and cost-competitive renewable alternative to conventional transport fuels, representing a key solution in the transition towards a climate neutral economy and able even to achieve negative emissions necessary to attain the EU climate neutrality targets.

Giulia Laura Cancian – EBA Secretary General said: The biogas and biomethane value chain welcomes the European Parliament recognition of biomethane’s significant contribution to reduce CO2 emissions. On the other hand, legislators missed a chance to provide the biomethane sector with the needed level playing field.

Get ready for an exciting event!

In December, the European Biogas Association (EBA) will publish the 2023 edition of its Statistical Report, a landmark publication on the biogas and biomethane sector in Europe. Join us on December 5th, from 10:00 to 11:15 CET, for an exclusive webinar where we will dive into the latest industry insights and future trends revealed in the Report.

What’s on the Agenda:

  • Harmen Dekker, EBA CEO, will introduce the new edition of our Statistical Report.
  • Edith Hofer, Deputy Head of Unit DG ENER from the European Commission, will open the session as a keynote speaker.
  • Mieke Decorte, EBA’s Technical and Project Manager, will kick things off with a comprehensive overview of 2022 biogases production volumes in Europe, illustrating the growth prospects of the biogases sector.
  • Marina Pasteris, EBA’s Technical and Project Officer, will unravel the secrets of biogas consumption by sector and the transformative potential of digestate in replacing synthetic fertilizers.
  • Q&A session, led by Giulia Cancian, Secretary General of the EBA.

The European Union spend a record of 316 billion euro on gas imports and in 20 EU Member States, natural gas dependency from external energy suppliers was higher than 90%. These numbers underscore the urgency of transitioning to renewable gases.

Are you curious to learn more? Join our webinar and be part of the renewable energy revolution!

The 4th edition of RENMAD Hidrogeno will take place on January 24-25 in Zaragoza. The program, curated by industry experts, provides a deep dive into the present and future of renewable H2 and biomethane.

Some of the key issues addressed at this event include:

  • Get the latest on EU rules on renewable H2: Delegated Acts, the Gas and Hydrogen Package, and the review of RED III
  • Examine the European Hydrogen Bank’s role in boosting the European H2 market and how it could serve as a counterbalance to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)
  • Learn how financial institutions evaluate renewable H2 projects to secure optimal financing for your renewable H2 projects
  • Forecast the demand for renewable H2 up to 2030, given the decarbonization plans for energy intensive industries and transportation under the ‘Fit for 55’ initiative
  • Take a close look at H2 projects in the Iberian Peninsula, their current status and expected completion dates
  • Dive deep into the supply and demand of electrolyzers, price trends and potential for mass manufacturing
  • Get insights into renewable H2 derivatives such as green ammonia and methanol: their unique features, production process and market size
  • Discover how to produce biomethane at the lowest possible cost and secure long-term buyers
  • Learn how to get the necessary permits to open your biomethane plant and accelerate the project development process
  • Identify the most effective strategies to secure a steady, long-term supply of organic waste for biomethane production
  • Learn about the latest biogas upgrading and digestate treatment technologies that are turning biomethane into a profitable energy source
  • Understand biomethane’s potential as a natural gas substitute in mobility and heating
  • Connect with key biomethane professionals, from developers to technology providers, who make up the industry’s vibrant ecosystem

EBA Technical & Project Officer Marina Pasteris will represent EBA at RENMAD Hidrogeno.

More information and registration here.

If you are interested in taking part in the event and you are an EBA member, you can obtain 20% discount code through the EBA Member Platform.

Brussels 27/10/23 The inaugural European Biomethane Week “Countdown to 2030: from targets to action!” concludes today with great success. This dedicated week, supported by the European Commission and the Biomethane Industrial Partnership, featured the state-of-the-art of biogases across Europe. The comprehensive programme included a two-day high-level European Biogas Conference in Brussels and ten side events in various European countries. One year after the REPowerEU plan to end reliance on Russian fossil fuels, the biogas industry is accelerating fast to contribute to energy security and climate objectives in the European Union.

650 participants and 49 speakers, including policymakers from EU institutions and Member States, senior companies’ executives, academics and other civil society partners, convened in Brussels on October 24th and 25th to discuss critical aspects of a successful transition to green energy. In her keynote address, European Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson emphasised the significance of biomethane in achieving climate targets, fostering the circular bioeconomy, and enhancing energy security across Europe. Simson stated: With biomethane, we have a solution that is available, right now. It can immediately start replacing natural gas, and the large share of imported natural gas. It is a good decarbonisation solution, especially in remote rural areas or sectors that would be difficult to electrify. And it is produced, here in Europe, creating jobs, growth and benefiting local communities.” The European Commissioner for Energy also reiterated the EU long-term commitment to lead the energy transition and decarbonise the gas market by 2050. “An increase in our biomethane production will help us do just that. We have made tremendous progress, but more is needed. It’s crucial that we continue to work together – policymakers and industry, Member States and EU – to turn the opportunity into reality.”, concluded Simson.

The European Biogas Conference served as a platform for insightful discussions on realising the 35 billion cubic meters (bcm) biomethane target and supporting the rapid decarbonisation of electricity, heating, transport, and industry sectors. Currently, biogases provide 21 bcm of renewable gas to Europe and can potentially offset two-thirds of future European gas demand by 2050. During his opening remarks, EBA CEO Harmen Dekker announced that €18 billion in investments have been earmarked to scale up the sector in Europe. Dekker emphasised, “While this progress is encouraging, the industry must take bolder steps.

The added value of biogases as drivers of the European bioeconomy was another key topic on the agenda. The conference explored the current options for the valorisation of biogenic CO2 from anaerobic digestion, the benefits of innovative agronomic practices and sustainable management of European soils. During his keynote speech, Jorge Pinto Antunes, Deputy Head of Cabinet of European Commissioner for Agriculture Wojciechowski, explained that 15 out of 22 EU Common Agriculture Policy (CAP) Strategic Plans support the production of biogas and biomethane.

The European Biomethane Week  also marked the launch of the European Biogas Association’s (EBA) “Biogases 8-points plan for a resilient and climate neutral EU”. Ahead of the EU elections in 2024, EBA presented its vision to collectively achieve EU climate neutrality by prioritising biogas and biomethane as essential components of the green circular transition. The 8-points plan touches upon energy security, EU technology leadership, renewable energy, emissions savings, waste valorisation, water resilience, nutrients recycling and internal market for biomethane. “The biogas and biomethane industry stands ready to collaborate with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and communities to realise a vision for a greener and more sustainable Europe. By prioritising biogas and biomethane as essential components of the green circular transition, we can collectively achieve EU climate neutrality, securing a safer and more sustainable future for all.”, highlighted EBA Secretary General Giulia Cancian.

Finally, the EBA Awards ceremony 2023 recognised outstanding individuals and projects for their innovation in energy transition and renewables: Biomethane RNG Channel team (Biogas Booster Award), REGATRACE project (Biogas Groundbreaker Award), Air Liquide (Energy Efficiency Champion), Lucy Hopwood (Women Leading the way to Climate Neutrality Award) and Micropyros biology team (Top Biogas Young Talent Award).


Did you miss the European Biogas Conference? Check the visual summaries of the plenaries

Some pictures of the European Biogas Conference 2023

Take a glance at the EBA Conference 2023

Brussels, 24 October 2023 – On the 24th of October, the European Parliament’s Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) voted its Report on the Revision of Regulation EU 2019/1242 setting CO2 emission performance standards for new heavy-duty vehicles. Unfortunately, the ENVI Committee position does not include a mechanism or definition able to account for the contribution of renewable fuels, such as biomethane, in the decarbonisation of the transport sector. Transport operators and vehicle manufacturers should be provided with a legislative framework that encourages them to consider cleaner fuel alternatives to fossil fuels immediately available today. Sustainable biomethane as a transport fuel provides a ready-available, local and cost-competitive renewable alternative to conventional transport fuels, representing a key solution in the transition towards a climate neutral economy and able even to achieve negative emissions necessary to attain the EU climate neutrality targets.

“The biogas and biomethane value chain regrets the ENVI Committee decision not to recognise the contribution of renewable fuels, such as biomethane, to the decarbonisation of the transport sector, thus risking to significantly delay the green transition of the sector.” Giulia Laura Cancian – EBA Secretary General

Brussels, 12 October 2023 – On the 12th of October, the European Parliament’s Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) voted its Opinion on the Revision of Regulation EU 2019/1242 setting CO2 emission performance standards for new heavy-duty vehicles. EBA approves the ITRE Committee recognition of the need for the introduction of a Carbon Correction Factor which contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions and climate change mitigation. Nevertheless, the Opinion includes unjustified caps to the Carbon Correction Factor and limits CO2 neutral fuels eligible under the Carbon Correction Factor to advanced biofuels (Annex IX A) and RFNBOs only. This definition is not in line with the one adopted by the TRAN Committee nor coherent with the one included in the Renewable Energy Directive revision.

A definition able to account for the contribution of renewable fuels, such as biomethane, is essential to recognise its decarbonisation impact on the transport sector. Sustainable biomethane as a transport fuel provides a ready-available, local and cost-competitive renewable alternative to conventional transport fuels, representing a key solution in the transition towards a climate-neutral economy and able even to achieve negative emissions necessary to attain the EU climate neutrality targets. 

EU’s biogas and biomethane value chain hopes that MEPs will follow a neutral technology approach and include a sound Carbon Correction Factor and a CO2 Neutral Fuel definition in the Plenary vote, supporting the outcome of the TRAN Committee Opinion.  

Regatec 2024 will take place as a hybrid event on the 15-16 May at Scandic Star hotel in Lund, Sweden.

The conference is organised in collaboration with the national SynFerm project and the Horizon Europe project, CarbonNeutralLNG. On the first day there will be sessions on methanation and syngas fermentation as part of the SynFerm project and on the second day there will a biomass gasification symposium as part of the CarbonNeutralLNG project.

EBA Technical Director Mieke Decorte will represent EBA at Regatec 2024.

Visit the event website for more information

Biogases 8-points plan for a resilient and climate neutral EU

The European Green Deal and the REPowerEU plan have charted a visionary course for a sustainable, carbon-neutral Europe by 2050. As representatives of the European biogases sector, we stand firmly committed to these pivotal objectives and highlight the legislative priorities we will need to achieve those objectives.

The European Biogas Association stands ready to collaborate with policymakers, industry stakeholders, and communities to realise a vision for a greener and more sustainable Europe. By prioritising biogas and biomethane as essential components of the green circular transition, we can collectively achieve EU climate neutrality, securing a safer and more sustainable future for all.

Biogases, including biomethane, are EU made renewable energy vectors and have the potential to revolutionise our energy system, drive sustainable practices in agriculture and waste management. Because they can adapt to existing infrastructure, they deliver systemic cost efficiency while leading transformative shift towards a greener and cleaner Europe.

Harmen Dekker (EBA) and David Cox (RNG Coalition) met last week with Pankaj Bhatia, Global Director of the Greenhouse Gas Protocol at World Resources Institute

Brussels 25/09/23 The European Biogas Association (EBA), together with the Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas (RNG Coalition), met last week with Pankaj Bhatia, Global Director of Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol at World Resources Institute, during the New York Climate Week. They discussed the growing production and use of biomethane in Europe and North America and explored possibilities for future collaboration to facilitate the accounting and reporting of biomethane certificates under the GHG Protocol. Recognition of sustainable biomethane certificates will be key in delivering the sustainable scale-up of the sector to reach the 35 bcm biomethane production target in Europe by 2030.    

The GHG Protocol, jointly created by the World Resources Institute and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development, provides a framework for companies to measure their GHG emissions and report on their decarbonisation targets. It has become one of the most widely used frameworks worldwide with more than 2,100 large companies in Europe using it. Yet, the GHG Protocol still does not have accounting rules for biomethane certificates, which contain the certified GHG emissions of the consumption of biomethane and represent the predominant way in which biomethane is purchased.

The meeting was therefore the opportunity for leaders of the biogases value chain and the World Resource Institute to discuss the process to include the treatment of biomethane certificates under the GHG Protocol. They agreed on the urgency to define a reliable and solid methodology for biomethane certificates, as more and more companies using the GHG Protocol framework look to biomethane to decarbonise their activities. They decided to leverage their organisations’ expertise to speed up the process of developing new rules for the accounting of biomethane certificates, such as EU Proofs of sustainability, in the GHG inventory of companies. EBA, along with RNG Coalition, committed to provide in the coming months expertise to the World Resource Institute concerning the certification and documentation of biomethane in the European Union and North America. They specifically agreed on plans for a workshop in 2024.

By providing reliable proof of the renewability and sustainability of purchased biomethane volumes, biomethane certificates are a foundation of growing biomethane market. They create value for producers who inject biomethane into existing gas grids and offer an affordable opportunity for end-users to decarbonise their processes.

EBA CEO Harmen Dekker said: “Looking back at the good cooperation and constructive exchanges, we continue to work with the World Resource Institute to facilitate the uptake of biomethane within the GHG Protocol. GHG emissions reporting frameworks can support EU’s efforts to reach 35 bcm of sustainable biomethane production by 2030, by enabling corporate end-users to report on their biomethane purchases and to measure its climate benefits on their activities.

RNG Coalition Co-Founder and CFO David Cox said:”Our engagement with the World Resource Institute continues to be constructive. A market-based approach to environmental attributes is a proven catalyst for growth and ensures renewable gases contribute positively to our clean energy present and future.

Pankaj Bhatia, Global Director of GHG Protocol at World Resources Institute (WRI) said: “Today’s meeting was a productive and positive conversation between WRI, EBA and RNG Coalition. I confirmed that WRI plans to remove the biomethane annex from the final Land Sector and Removals Guidance in order to allow for a full exploration of these options and issues, and that we are committed to working with them to ensure that existing best practices are incorporated in any future guidance on GHG Protocol so that renewable gas transactions are carried out with the highest level of integrity and confidence.”


About the European Biogas Association (EBA)

The EBA is the voice of renewable gas in Europe. Founded in February 2009, the association is committed to the active promotion of the deployment of sustainable biogas and biomethane production and use throughout the continent. The association counts today on a well-established network of over 250 national associations and other organisations representing the whole biogas and biomethane value chain.

About the Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas (RNG Coalition)

RNG Coalition is the non-profit association providing public policy advocacy and education for the sustainable development, deployment, and utilisation of renewable natural gas. RNG Coalition membership is comprised of 380+ leading companies, municipalities, ports and airports, colleges, and universities throughout the United States and Canada.

Brussels, 20 September 2023 – On 20 September, the European Parliament’s Committee on Environment (ENVI) adopted its Opinion on the Net Zero Industry Act (NZIA), a milestone legislation to foster EU-based manufacturing of clean technologies tabled last March by the European Commission. The European Biogas Association is deeply concerned by the ENVI Committee’s decision to exclude “sustainable biogas and biomethane technologies” from the scope of the Act.  

Such deletion is contrary to the strategic role of biogas and biomethane in a sustainable, secure and resilient energy mix for the coming years and decades, as recognised by the European Commission in the REPowerEU Plan. Biogas and biomethane technologies do meet the requirements for “strategic net-zero technologies” based on the Commission’s proposal: 

1. Technological readiness: Biogases main production pathway (anaerobic digestion) is a mature technology (TRL 9). There are more than 18,000 biogas plants and 1,320 biomethane plants operating today.  Combined production capacity exceeds 200 TWh, which is the equivalent of gas consumption of Belgium.

2. Contribution to decarbonisation and competitiveness:  In 2020, combined biogas and biomethane production saved the equivalent to GHG emissions of Portugal (60 Mt CO2eq emissions). Biogases can replace up to 20% of natural gas imports by 2030. The European biogas industry is already a world leader and an exporter to other regions of the world. 

3. Security of supply risks: The European biogas industry covers the supply chain of production technologies. The sector does not create new dependencies on third countries, rather it contributes to energy and technological security. 

Sustainable biogas and biomethane are a local, made-in Europe and cost-competitive renewable alternative to oil and natural gas, representing a key solution in the low-carbon transition of EU industries. 

The vote of the European Parliament’s Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) on 25 October is an opportunity to recognise the strategic role of biogases in the NZIA. 

Brussels, 19 September 2023 – On the 19th of September, the European Parliament’s Committee on Transport and Tourism (TRAN) voted its Opinion on the Revision of Regulation EU 2019/1242 setting CO2 emission performance standards for new heavy-duty vehicles, a milestone legislation to curb the segment emissions. EBA applauds the TRAN Committee for recognising the long-term contribution of renewable fuels, including biomethane, to the decarbonisation of the sector, via the introduction of a sound Carbon Correction Factor and CO2 Neutral Fuel definition. Sustainable biomethane as a transport fuel provides a ready-available, local and cost-competitive renewable alternative to conventional transport fuels, representing a key solution in the transition towards a climate neutral economy and able even to achieve negative emissions necessary to attain the EU climate neutrality targets.

EU’s biogas and biomethane value chain hopes that the European Parliament’s Committee on Industry, Research and Energy (ITRE) and European Parliament’s Committee on Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI) will also recognise the long-term contribution of renewable fuels, such as biomethane, and provide a level playing field for their further production and deployment in their upcoming votes, respectively on the 12th and 23rd of October.