Brussels, 19 February 2025, 3-year European research project FER-PLAY sheds light on current challenges and drivers for the rollout of circular fertilisers in Europe at final event, ending today, as Commission presents its Vision for Agriculture and Food. The Vision will guide all future thinking on agrifood policy over the next five years, helping to reconcile green goals with the economic realities of farming.

Conventional fertilisers are made using finite, often imported, resources and employing in some cases energy-intensive production processes. To ensure high yields, these fertilisers are optimised for the fast release of nutrients, making them an attractive choice for farmers but a threat to soil and ecosystem health. Meanwhile, circular fertilisers are sourced from homegrown residues or by-products, decreasing EU dependence on fertiliser imports and boosting resource efficiency. They provide yield benefits while minimising the risks associated with fast-acting conventional fertilisers, protecting the soil and water from nutrient enrichment. Their adoption is fostered by several legislative pieces at EU level, such as the Soil Monitoring Law or the Common Agricultural Policy.

Over the past three years, the FER-PLAY consortium, gathering expertise from different EU countries, has worked to protect ecosystems, decrease EU dependence on fertiliser imports, and improve resource efficiency through the promotion of circular fertilisers. During that time, the project has been mapping and assessing circular fertilisers made from secondary raw materials, highlighting their multiple benefits to foster their wide-scale production and application as a key element of the agro-ecological transition. Thorough dialogues with farmers, producers and local administrations allowed to include valuable insights to the market uptake recommendations.

This uptake is strategic since, by 2050, the rollout of circular fertilisers could replace 3.77 M tonnes of conventional fertilisers. Such reduction of conventional fertiliser consumption could cut CO2 and N2O emissions by 88% and 87%, respectively. The replacement of conventional fertilisers by circular ones could also help reduce fertiliser imports by 20%, leading to up to €689.38M savings per year.

Despite their advantages, the socio-economic and environmental benefits of circular fertilisers are still largely unknown by fertiliser producers, farmers and policymakers alike. The adaptation of the existing technical and legal framework, as well as targeted support to innovation on nutrient recycling, will facilitate the broader use and production of circular fertilisers across Europe. All publicly available project outcomes are available on the project website and Zenodo.

“The information generated in FER-PLAY paves the way for untapping the full potential of circular fertilisers, enabling farmers and agrifood industries to make sustainable and informed choices on fertilisation and soil management protocols. Both access to information and a coherent framework are required to avoid putting the future of our food and agriculture systems in jeopardy.” Jose Martín Soriano Disla, Project Coordinator, CETENMA   


About FER-PLAY  

FER-PLAY has worked to facilitate the uptake of circular fertilisers, to protect ecosystems, decrease EU dependence on fertiliser imports, foster circularity and improve soil health. The project has mapped and assessed circular fertilisers made from secondary raw materials and highlighted their multiple benefits in order to promote their wide-scale production and use on field.

The project is coordinated by CETENMA (ES) and brings together in total 12 partners from 6 different European countries from across the sector: CIC (IT), EBA (BE), NURESYS (BE), INAGRO, CETAQUA (ES), DRAXIS (GR), REVOLVE (BE), ACR+ (BE), COLDIRETTI (IT), NATURLAND (DE) and ASAJA (ES). 

The 30-month-long project was launched in September 2022 and has received a total grant of 2 million euros from the European Commission within Horizon Europe under the ‘’Food, Bioeconomy Natural Resources, Agriculture and Environment’’ programme. Grant agreement ID: 101060426.

Media contact 

Jose Martín Soriano Disla Project Coordinator – CETENMA  martin.soriano@cetenma.es  
Angela Sainz
Communication Lead – European Biogas Association sainz@europeanbiogas.eu  

The European Biogas Association (EBA) is a member-led organisation representing the entire biogas value chain across Europe. With over 300 members in 35 countries, we are a growing and influential voice in the renewable energy sector. Our mission is to support the scale-up of biogases by engaging with policymakers in Europe and emerging markets to reduce barriers and unlock the sector’s full potential.

We are seeking to recruit a Technical and Project officer to expand EBA’s knowledge and data on the gasification technology.

Your role

As part of EBA’s Technical Department, you will contribute to the implementation of EBA’s technical strategy. Your main objective will be to further develop and increase EBA’s knowledge and database on gasification and gasification projects. You will bring new ideas to the table to deliver insightful publications. You will:

  • Lead on
    • Research, data collection and knowledge acquisition in the field of gasification. This includes in-depth analysis of technologies, and challenges to upscale biomethane production from gasification.
    • Mapping of all pilot and commercial gasification plants in the EU, including current production and potential.
    • Exploration of synergies with co-products of gasification including biochar utilization.
    • Data collection and development of updates to the European Biomethane Map
  • Contribute to the development of EU project proposals in relation to gasification.
  • Strong involvement in the development of key publications, such as the EBA statistical report.
  • Strong interaction with EBA members and collaboration with key stakeholders for technical knowledge exchange.
  • Support to EBA’s policy and communication activities.
  • Representation of the EBA at scientific conferences, international workshops, and exhibitions.

Your profile

  • University graduate in a related field of environmental sciences, agriculture, natural sciences, engineering.
  • Minimum 3 years of working experience.
  • Knowledge of renewable energies and particularly renewable gases.
  • Enthusiasm for renewable energies and environmental protection.
  • Excellent command of English. Any other language is a definite plus.
  • Required skill set: analytical skills, numerical reasoning, logical thinking, eye for detail.
  • Multitasker, quick-learner and ready to work in a fast-paced environment.
  • Team player, proactive, self-starter.
  • The candidate will have to demonstrate that he/she has the right to live and work in Belgium.
  • Willingness to travel within Europe.

What would we consider a plus?

  • Experience in the Horizon 2020 and/or Horizon Europe program.
  • Experience with databases software and data visualization tools
  • Basic knowledge on EU legislation on renewable energies.
  • Experience in conducting techno-economic evaluations of energy projects, including cost-benefit analysis and risk assessment

We offer
The position provides the opportunity to work within an exciting and growing industry which can play an important role in the energy transition and the development of a circular bioeconomy. You will be able to work on a variety of topics related to the renewable gas sector and built a network of researchers, industry representatives and policy makers across Europe. You will profit from collaborations with key stakeholders involved in the sector, high-level European experts and policy makers.

The EBA offers a flexible job (2 days per week home working) within a growing and dedicated team all set in a dynamic and international environment. We offer a competitive compensation package, commensurate with your experience and an initial 1-year contract with possibility for a long-term extension. The position is based in Avenue des Nerviens 85, 1040 Brussel, Belgium.

How to apply?

Please send your CV (no Europass format) and cover letter (max. 1 page) to Anastasiya Agapova agapova@europeanbiogas.eu with the subject ‘YOUR NAME – EBA Technical and Project Officer – Gasification’.

Interviews will take place on a rolling basis. Please consider that only the selected CVs will be notified for further process and interview.

The third edition of the European Biomethane Week will host a variety of activities in Brussels. The flagship event of the week will be organised in Brussels on the 14-15 October and includes:

  • A masterclass organised by the European Renewable Gas Centre (13 October)
  • A 2-day high-level European Biogas Conference, featuring keynote speeches, and different policy and technical sessions (14-15 October)
  • A networking dinner
  • The EBA Awards
  • The EBA Inspiration Challenge
  • An exhibition area with lunches, coffee breaks, and a cocktail
  • Unparalleled networking opportunities

Why should you be there?

As Europe enters a new phase with fresh representatives in the European Parliament and a newly appointed Commission, it is an essential time to solidify the leadership of biogases as a clean, circular, and competitive industry. Investing in biogas technologies not only enhances Europe’s competitiveness but also secures its energy future, supports circular economy initiatives, and challenges misconceptions surrounding social acceptance.

This event offers a unique opportunity to break down barriers, improve market access, and foster collaborative efforts among industry leaders, policymakers, researchers, and civil society to meet the ambitious targets set for the sector.

Don’t miss the chance to connect with a diverse range of stakeholders, gain valuable insights into scaling up the biogas industry, and discover the innovative potential of biogases and their wide-ranging applications. Join us at the European Biomethane Week and become part of the solution in building a sustainable and resilient 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 policymakers for the biogas sector in Europe.
  • Media experts.

More details about registrations, preliminary programme and call for applications will be disclosed end of March on the European Biomethane Week website: www.europeanbiomethaneweek.eu. Stay tuned! 

The four Horizon Europe funded projects BIOMETHAVERSE, HYFUELUP, METHAREN and SEMPRE-BIO are holding a webinar on Wednesday 26 February 2025 to present the findings of their joint report on ‘State of Play of Biogas and Biomethane in Europe’.

A unique opportunity to gain an overview of the current state of #biogas and #biomethane in Europe and its future. You will learn more about:

  • The analysis of NECPs and countries’ potential against their targets.
  • Highlights of the deployment of biomethane in different European countries.
  • The pathway towards a harmonised cross-border transfer of biomethane certificates
  • Challenges of biomethane trading.
  • Policy and market recommendations.
  • Forecasts and future of biogas and biomethane production in the EU.

Register now!

Brussels, 11/02/2025 – Leading biomethane offtakers have come together in the Biomethane Offtakers Declaration, released today, to call for higher support for biomethane production and offtake. Led by the European Biogas Association, this initiative emphasises biomethane’s essential role in achieving Europe’s climate neutrality objectives while ensuring the continent’s global competitiveness.

Biogas and biomethane are key solutions for the decarbonisation of EU industries, offering the most cost-effective and scalable renewable energy sources available today. Produced locally, these renewable gases enhance energy security, reduce emissions, and position Europe as a global leader in sustainable and competitive technologies. “The European Commission’s net-zero target requires a profound transformation of our energy systems, driven by renewable energy, infrastructure development, and new market opportunities. To achieve this in the most competitive way, sustainable biomethane has a vital role to play in the upcoming Clean Industrial Deal, serving as an essential component of this transformation by providing defossilisation solutions, enhancing energy security, and strengthening Europe’s industry”, explains EBA CEO Harmen Dekker.

To unlock the full potential of biomethane, the Joint Offtakers Declaration on Sustainable Biomethane for Europe’s Green Transition outlines key actions. These include setting long-term production targets for 2040 and 2050, supported by EU regulations and financial incentives to facilitate new projects and long-term agreements. The Declaration also advocates for market-driven solutions by recognising Guarantees of Origin and sustainability certificates in GHG reporting, while removing barriers for corporate Biomethane Purchasing Agreements and improving cross-border trade within the EU. Finally, the Declaration emphasises the need for political and institutional support, including a comprehensive European biomethane market inventory to assess export potential and increased staffing at the European Commission to prioritise biomethane initiatives.

The Declaration brings together major biomethane offtakers committed to working alongside policymakers and the supply chain to drive sustainable production, rapid scaling, and widespread adoption of biomethane across Europe. Building on the momentum of the 2021 Biomethane Declaration, which helped secure the REPowerEU target of 35 bcm of biomethane production per year by 2030, this new initiative shifts the focus towards strengthening demand.

Supplying 22 billion cubic meters (bcm) of renewable gas today, the biogas and biomethane sector is set to attract €27 billion in investments by 2030, with the potential to reach 101 bcm by 2040, covering over 80% of the EU’s projected gas consumption. At current production rates, biogases could help Europe avoid 106 million tons of CO2 emissions each year, provide renewable energy to 19 million European households year-round, or fuel 533,000 LNG trucks. With existing production already delivering results, accelerating deployment is key to a cost-efficient, net-zero future.

This initiative will remain open for additional signatories to endorse the Declaration. For more information or to get involved, visit www.biomethane-offtake-declaration.eu


Contact

Angela Sainz Arnau, EBA Communications Director sainz@europeanbiogas.eu

Fanny Lamon, EBA Senior Communications Officer lamon@europeanbiogas.eu

Brussels, 10 February 2025 – Following the withdrawal of guidance on the use of biomethane certificates in the GHG Protocol, over 144 companies and trade associations from around the world have issued a public joint letter to the governance bodies of the GHG Protocol calling for the key role of market-based instruments to be recognised in the Protocol’s Scope 1 inventory. Their message to the GHG Protocol is simple: Let Green Gas Count.

The GHG Protocol is the world’s leading standard for measuring and managing greenhouse gas emissions. Widely used by businesses, governments, and organisations globally, it provides a framework for tracking, reporting and reducing emissions. Its influence shapes corporate climate strategies and drives accountability in emission reduction efforts. 

Led by the Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association (ADBA), the Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas, Eurogas, the European Biogas Association (EBA), and the World Biogas Association (WBA), the signatories represent economic operators globally responsible for the production, trading and consumption of renewable gaseous fuels and their derivatives. They underline the urgent need for a climate reporting framework that provides rules and certainty for investment in their sectors.

Renewable gases and their derivatives are necessary to decarbonise industry, transport and buildings. To facilitate their rapid deployment, a market-based approach is required to overcome any economic, technical and environmental barriers and inefficiencies arising from the requirement of a physical (local) connection.

As the Corporate Standard of the GHG Protocol is being revised, the signatories urge its governance bodies to include such an approach in the Scope 1 inventory, for both fuel and feedstock applications.

Additionally, the signatories appeal to the governing bodies to issue an interim statement in the first half of 2025, confirming that robust market instruments for renewable gases will be recognised at the end of the Corporate Standard revision process to support the decarbonisation of industries. This would provide stakeholders with clarity and confidence, as the development of revised standards can take several years.

Biomethane delivers significant GHG emissions reductions—24 million tons of CO2 equivalent in the EU in 2023. Corporate consumers know this and now demand clear GHG Protocol guidance on biomethane certificates to recognise biomethane’s climate performance,” said Anthony Lorin, EBA Senior Policy Analyst.

Download the full letter

Visit the website of the Joint Letter Let Green Gas Count


Contact:

Looking for a concise publication on biogas production, utilisation, and the latest sector statistics? “Decoding Biogases: Made in Europe, Sustainable, and Affordable” is the perfect resource for you. Our publication provides an overview of how biogas is produced, its environmental and societal benefits, and its role in the future energy landscape.

Biogas is produced by converting biomass in an anaerobic digester, producing renewable gas that can be upgraded to biomethane, which is chemically identical to natural gas and can replace it in all its end-uses.

But biogases are more than just renewable energy. They contribute to waste management, support grid stability, stimulate leadership in clean technologies, and promote green jobs, all while boosting the development of a European bioeconomy.

The publication also highlights the impact of digestate, a co-product of biogas production that can replace synthetic fertilisers, reducing dependency on imports.

Explore the full publication for insights on biogas and biomethane production, their socio-economic impacts, and more!

Download the publication

“Decoding Biogases: Made in Europe, Sustainable, and Affordable” provides an overview of how biogas is produced, its environmental and societal benefits, and its role in the future energy landscape.

The impact of biogases goes far beyond energy production, as they provide solutions to significant societal challenges. They support grid stability, provide affordable and sustainable energy, and offer effective waste management solutions. The offsetting of fossil energy with biogases stimulates leadership in clean technologies and the creation of green jobs, boosting the development of a European Bioeconomy. 

Explore the publication for more insights!

23 January 2025, Enschede (The Netherlands) – The Horizon Europe project FertiCovery held its kick-off meeting in Enschede today, launching its mission to advise policymakers and stakeholders on alternative fertilising products, ensuring balanced nitrogen and phosphorus flows and promoting soil health at regional and local scale, in line with the EU’s Soil Strategy for 2030.

Farmers and society can benefit from the circular use of alternative fertilising products recovered from secondary raw materials, as they lead to lower environmental impacts on soil, water, and air quality, biodiversity and climate. FertiCovery will support policy makers and practitioners to remove barriers and promote the application of nutrient recovery and bio-based fertilisers.”, Martijn Vis, project coordinator from BTG Biomass Technology Group B.V.

There is a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the efficiency of nutrient recovery technologies, as well as their agronomical and environmental impacts, leaving farmers without clear guidance on their application. Legal barriers further complicate matters, with uncertainty surrounding which fertilising products meet regulatory requirements. Moreover, the small-scale production of bio-based fertilisers leads to higher costs compared to conventional options. Addressing these issues requires innovative solutions that minimise environmental impact while maintaining agricultural productivity.

The FertiCovery project will first establish a longlist of 75 case studies of existing installations converting secondary raw materials into alternative fertilising products in Europe and worldwide. Partners will describe 25 nutrient recovery and bio-based fertiliser technologies, their feedstocks, value chains, products and applications, followed by an assessment of technical aspects and environmental impacts of the technologies (including energy); an assessment of composition, sanitary safety and environmental impacts of the associated fertilising products; and an assessment of feedstock availability, potential for upscaling, regulatory framework, costs and social risks resulting in the market and replication potential.

A multicriteria decision analysis report and datasheets of the 10-15 best available technologies will be shared with technology providers, end-users, farmers, industry, environmental organisations, policy makers, civil society, and the scientific community.

The engagement of European and international stakeholders will be conducted through 5 workshops and 6 open forum events, fostering a forum of stakeholders from the whole supply chain.

The FertiCovery project started on 1 January 2025 and will run for 3 years. The consortium connects 8 partners, including the European Biogas Association, from 7 countries and is coordinated by B.T.G. BIOMASS TECHNOLOGY GROUP BV (The Netherlands). You can keep up with project progress on the project LinkedIn group and LinkedIn page.

The FertiCovery project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under grant agreement No. 101181936.

The European Biogas Association (EBA) aims to ensure the full rollout of renewable gas in Europe. We are a growing association representing over 300 members spanning 35 countries. As part of our continuous growth, we are seeking to employ an enthusiastic Event Manager to join our office in Brussels on a full-time and permanent basis. The candidate would need to have at least 5 years of experience in the organisation of events and project management.

The role

  • You will be part of a dynamic team of communication experts to enhance the visibility of the biogas sector.
  • You will bring fresh ideas to the table for the organisation of thought-provoking events to strengthen the visibility and impact of the biogases sector in Europe.
  • You will be responsible for the overall organisation and coordination of EBA events, including event logistics, event budgeting, teams’ coordination and project management, with the support of the appropriate planning tools.

Your day-to-day adventures

You will play an active role in the implementation of EBA’s outreach strategy, including:

  • Organising the European Biomethane Week, EBA’s flagship annual event in October, in cooperation with other EBA colleagues and external partners. The 2024 edition counted +700 participants in Brussels and side events around Europe.
  • Coordinating other EBA impactful physical events for members or external stakeholders, such as workshops, business days, site visits, networking events, etc.
  • Supporting the organisation of EBA webinars for members or external stakeholders.

What makes you a perfect fit? 

  • You have a minimum of 5 years’ experience in events planning and execution (online, hybrid and physical), including large conferences. Please provide record of successful events organised.
  • You have solid event planning and budgeting background. You have good negotiation skills and experience managing relations with external suppliers.
  • You are a highly organised person, detailed-oriented and proactive. You have experience coordinating teams.
  • You have excellent time management skills and can prioritise and work in a fast-paced environment.
  • You are a dynamic, flexible, and a good communicator, with the ability to motivate and cooperate with a growing team.
  • You have basic knowledge of CMS and marketing software (ex: Canva, InDesign, Mailing tools).
  • You have good understanding of how the European Institutions work.
  • You have an interest in the renewable energy sector.
  • You have excellent command of English, at least a passive knowledge of French, any other European language an asset.
  • You are eligible to work in the EU.

Why EBA?

  • We offer an energetic working environment within a multicultural young team in Brussels and full immersion into the work of a leading European industry association in Brussels.
  • You will join a brand-new office in a green area, with a team-driven culture, making it the perfect place for your creativity to shine.
  • You will receive a salary and compensation package tailored to your experience. We have a hybrid work setup (2 days/week of homeworking), so you will have the flexibility to work both remotely and in the office.

Ready to join us?

Are you a passionate Event Manager looking for a new challenge and valuable experience? Then, you should immediately apply for this position and become part of the EBA team!

Please send your CV (no Europass format) and cover letter (1 page) to Angela Sainz Arnau (sainz@europeanbiogas.eu) with the subject ‘YOUR NAME – EBA Event Manager’ by the end of January at the latest. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis and the successful candidate will be expected to join EBA as soon as possible. Please consider that only the selected candidates will be notified for further process and interview.

The European Biogas Association has launched its Activity Report 2024, highlighting a year of impactful advocacy and growth for sustainable biogases in Europe.

In 2024, we raised our industry’s profile through high-level meetings, impactful outreach campaigns, and new resources, including market intelligence and in-depth policy analysis. We also contributed to 6 EU research projects, strengthening EBA evidence-based advocacy that is increasingly recognised by various international bodies. To connect our growing community, we introduced new initiatives like Biogases Business Day and the European Renewable Gases Training Centre.

Our growth was reflected not only in the EBA Secretariat and membership but also in the European biogases sector as a whole. Key developments have been mapped in various EBA publications, including the EBA Statistical Report, the Biomethane Map, the Investment Outlook, and first-of-their-kind inventories of methanation and gasification projects in Europe.

The increasing interest in our sector was also visible during EBA’s flagship event in October. The European Biogas Conference was a great success – it attracted a record 710 participants.

The European Biogas Association has launched its Activity Report 2024, highlighting a year of impactful advocacy and growth for sustainable biogases in Europe.

In 2024, we raised our industry’s profile through high-level meetings, impactful outreach campaigns, and new resources, including market intelligence and in-depth policy analysis. We also contributed to 6 EU research projects, strengthening EBA evidence-based advocacy that is increasingly recognised by various international bodies. To connect our growing community, we introduced new initiatives like Biogases Business Day and the European Renewable Gases Training Centre.

Our growth was reflected not only in the EBA Secretariat and membership but also in the European biogases sector as a whole. Key developments have been mapped in various EBA publications, including the EBA Statistical Report, the Biomethane Map, the Investment Outlook, and first-of-their-kind inventories of methanation and gasification projects in Europe.

The increasing interest in our sector was also visible during EBA’s flagship event in October. The European Biogas Conference was a great success – it attracted a record 710 participants.

Join us on Monday 10 February for an insightful webinar hosted by EBA, ERGaR, Eurogas, RNG Coalition, and the World Biogas Association.

This event will explore biomethane’s certification practices across USA and Europe and why they should be recognised in the GHG Protocol framework.

Highlights include:

  • A presentation by S&P Global Commodity Insights on renewable gas tracking systems.
  • Perspectives from producers, traders, and off-takers on biomethane in energy procurement strategies and climate reporting.
  • Insights on how biomethane certificates deliver sustainability guarantees, enable credible decarbonisation claims, and contribute to cost-competitiveness of biomethane projects.

Why it matters:

Biomethane already delivers major GHG emissions reductions—15 million metric tons of CO2e in the EU and 5 million metric tons of CO2e in the US in 2023. With production set to grow unprecedentedly by 2030, clear GHG Protocol guidance about biomethane tracking systems is essential to give full recognition to the climate potential of biomethane and support its market uptake.

EBA CEO Harmen Dekker will kick off the webinar with opening remarks, setting the stage for an insightful discussion.

Register now to secure your spot!

Agenda

Opening Statement

  • Harmen Dekker – CEO – EBA

Presentations

  • Adrian Dorsch – Associate Director Global Gas, LNG, and Energy Transition Consulting – S&P Global Commodity Insights
  • Michaela Wagar – Actions and Market Instruments Manager – GHG Protocol secretariat

Panel debate – moderation by Tim Hamers – Secretary General – ERGaR

  • Ana Alcalde – Energy Analyst – IEA
  • Fernando Gianchini Lopes – Director – Instituto Totum
  • John Hanselman – Fernando Giachini Lopes – CEO – Instituto Totum
  • Nic Crowe – Development Director – Grissan
  • Sophie Casenave – Corporate Policy Affairs Advisor – STX Group
  • Corporate off-taker (TBC)

Q&A session with audience

cover image

The European Biogas Association (EBA) published a paper exploring the state of play of biomass and waste gasification in Europe. Chapter 1 includes a discussion about the role of gasification in the future energy system, with an emphasis on relevant policies driving its deployment. Chapter 2 covers an introduction of key technological aspects of this field, such as feedstock pretreatment, gasification operational parameters and state-of-the-art technologies. Chapter 3 summarises the upgrading pathways to convert syngas resulting from gasification into various end products, as well as the discussion of the valorisation of biochar, a gasification by product. Furthermore, European operational and planned gasification installations have been mapped and main trends analysed in Chapter 4. Chapter 5 addresses market and economic considerations affecting the gasification sector with an emphasis on techno-economic aspects.

Policies promoting renewable energy sources, financial incentives for biomass projects and regulatory frameworks aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions are vital for fostering investment in the gasification technology. As technology advances and market conditions evolve, biomass and waste gasification could play an integral role in transitioning towards sustainable energy solutions, while mitigating the environmental impacts associated with fossil fuel consumption.

Download the paper:

Watch the launch webinar

Brussels 12/12/24 – The European Biogas Association (EBA) today launched a comprehensive paper and an interactive map of operational and under construction gasification plants across Europe, exploring the potential of gasification technology in the future energy system. As the continent accelerates efforts to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, gasification emerges as a promising solution, turning organic materials into clean, renewable energy while driving competitiveness and advancing clean-tech manufacturing.

Gasification represents a dual benefit,” explains Anastasiya Agapova, EBA Technical and Project Officer. “It provides a reliable and sustainable energy source while offering a circular economy solution by recycling waste materials, reducing landfill use, and mitigating environmental pollution. Additionally, it offers a promising pathway for biomethane production by processing hard-to-digest biomass streams. The syngas produced can be upgraded through a variety of processes into diverse end products, including pure methane — known as biomethane — unlocking even greater potential for renewable energy applications.”

According to the EBA white paper, Gasification: diversification of biomass processing and waste utilisation, Europe is currently home to approximately 141 biomass and waste gasification installations, with an additional 54 projects under development. Germany leads the way with 61 installations, while France, Finland, and Italy are also emerging as significant contributors to this growing market.

75% of the feedstock used in gasification comes from forestry and agricultural residues. Waste streams account for about 7%, while the remaining facilities utilise mixed feedstock sources.

The potential for gasification in Europe is significant, with estimates indicating a production capacity of 37 billion cubic meters (bcm) by 2040, representing 33% of the total biomethane production potential (111 bcm). This highlights gasification as a critical component in diversifying and expanding biomethane production across the region. Based on current estimates, Europe could avoid 536 million tons of CO2 emissions annually, provide renewable energy to 100 million European households year-round, or fuel 2 million LNG trucks annually.

The biomass and waste gasification market presents significant opportunities for growth and investment. The continued development and adoption of advanced gasification technologies, supported by favourable policies and public-private partnerships, are essential for realising the full potential of this market.


Contact

Fanny Lamon – EBA Communications Officer lamon@europeanbiogas.eu  

Anastasiya Agapova – EBA Technical and Project Officer agapova@europeanbiogas.eu

About gasification

Gasification, a thermochemical process, converts organic materials, including agricultural residues, forestry by-products, wood waste, and the organic fraction of municipal solid waste, into syngas.

29-30 January 2025. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

ACI is delighted to announce The Future of BioLNG: Europe 2025, a premier conference dedicated to advancing BioLNG as a sustainable energy source. This pivotal event will gather industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to explore innovation, regulation, and market dynamics shaping the BioLNG sector.

Why Attend?
Join us for two days of comprehensive discussions, ground-breaking insights, and networking opportunities designed to shape the future of sustainable energy. The conference will cover:

  • Regulatory Harmonisation: Understand the latest regulatory frameworks driving BioLNG adoption.
  • Market Dynamics: Analyse emerging market trends and investment opportunities.
  • Decarbonisation Strategies: Discover how BioLNG can contribute to achieving net-zero goals.
  • Innovative Technologies: Explore advancements in BioLNG production, including integration with carbon capture and storage.
  • Real-World Applications: Learn how BioLNG is transforming the maritime and transport sectors.
  • Sustainable Solutions: Address challenges in feedstock supply and supply chain efficiency.

Key Topics Include:

  • Harmonising the regulatory landscape to accelerate BioLNG adoption.
  • Exploring BioLNG’s role in decarbonisation and comparing its benefits with other biofuels.
  • Strategies to ensure sustainable feedstock supply through guarantees of origin.
  • Technological advancements in liquefaction and overcoming market challenges.
  • Unlocking BioLNG’s potential in transport and maritime applications.

Who Should Attend?
This event is ideal for:

  • Current & prospective BioLNG producers and distributors
  • Liquefaction technology providers
  • Biogas feedstock suppliers
  • Transportation companies
  • Maritime companies
  • Bio-based feedstock suppliers
  • Government officials, regulators, and policymakers
  • Financial stakeholders & investors
  • Academia and research institutions
  • Sustainability and chemical consultants
  • Consultancy firms
  • Engineering firms

Get in touch

For media enquiries and registration, visit the event website.

9-12 June 2025, Valencia, Spain 

EUBCE is the largest biomass conference and exhibition in the world.  

Each year, EUBCE brings together the greatest minds and latest advancements in biomass, with the aim of accelerating research and market uptake across the globe.  

During the conference, over 1500 experts from 80 countries from both academia and industry share and discuss groundbreaking 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 conversion to intermediate bioenergy carriers and sustainable biofuels, bioenergy integration and bio-based products and bioeconomy sustainability, impacts and policies. Industrial sessions will focus on issues such as sustainable biomass production and carbon management for industrial applications, biomethane production, advanced biofuels in road & heavy-duty transport and aviation sectors and innovative biorefineries: production of bioproducts & biochemicals. 

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

The event is supported by the Circular Bio-Based Europe Joint Undertaking.  

Be part of the 33rd European Biomass Conference and Exhibition and present your results to specialists and decision makers operating at the top end of the biomass and bioenergy sector.  

Get in touch

For media enquiries and registration, please visit the event website or contact the organisers at biomass.conference@etaflorence.it  

If you are an EBA member and interested in taking part in the event, you can access a 10% discount via the EBANET.

18-19 February 2025. Brussels, Belgium

As the FER-PLAY project concludes in February 2025, we invite you to join our Final Conference to discover the project’s key findings and to co-create future steps to advance towards the market uptake of circular fertilisers together with R&D fellow projects. Get to know more about the assessment of circular fertiliser value chains, barriers and chances, as well as the perspectives of farmers, producers and local administrations on on these substitutes to conventional fertilisers. Circular fertilisers can protect soils and ecosystems, reduce the EU’s dependence on fertiliser imports, and enhance resource efficiency. Despite their great potential, the socio-economic and environmental benefits of circular fertilisers remain underexplored. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn and contribute! 

The conference brings together producers, farmers, civil society organisations, academics, policymakers, fellow projects and initiatives to discuss the state-of-play and chart a course for the future of circular fertilisers in Europe. The agenda will feature networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect and exchange ideas with experts. Attendees will also engage in cocreation sessions focusing on shaping policy recommendations and the priorities to foster the market uptake of circular fertilisers.  

Get in touch

For registration and programme, visit the project website here.

Brussels 04/12/24 Combined biogas and biomethane production in 2023 amounted to 22 bcm, according to the 14th edition of the Statistical Report published today by the European Biogas Association. This is more than the entire inland natural gas demand of Belgium, Denmark, and Ireland combined, and represents 7% of the natural gas consumption of the European Union in 2023.

Considering the current rates of biogas and biomethane production, Europe could avoid 106 million tons of CO2 emissions each year, provide renewable energy to 19 million European households year-round, and fuel 533,000 LNG trucks annually.

The rollout of biogases will be key to bolster the EU’s competitiveness and leadership on clean technologies in the coming years, but also the resilience of the EU’s energy system. According to Eurostat, 98% of the EU’s natural gas demand in 2022 was covered by imports. Considering this significant reliance on external energy supplies and the resulting dependency on third parties, investing in biogases remains vital.

Despite the figures confirming the growth of the sector, as well as its role in reaching climate goals and energy independence, a greater focus on the optimisation of market and regulatory conditions, including coherent planning of biomethane potential and faster permitting procedures, will be essential to ensure sustained growth in the coming years.

“Europe’s greatest resource for reducing reliance on outside energy providers is a combination of all renewable energy sources, including biogases. Biogases are a key contributor to renewable energy provision and not only in volume terms. Thanks to their flexibility, energy storage capacity, and ability to generate dispatchable power, biogases support and facilitate growth in other renewables.“ Explains Harmen Dekker, EBA’s CEO.

Biomethane production alone grew to 4.9 bcm in 2023 with an installed capacity of 6.4 bcm/year by the first quarter of 2024. This represents the biggest increase in biomethane production so far, with a higher year-on-year production rise concentrated in the EU area (21%).

In terms of end-uses, biomethane consumption concentrates in the sectors with the highest energy consumption, supporting their swift decarbonisation. In 2023, 23% of the biomethane produced in Europe was used for transport, 17% for buildings, 15% for power generation and 13% for industry.

Additionally, the biogas and biomethane industries can supply an important source of biogenic CO2, produced as co-product of the renewable gas. Biogenic CO2 can be used for the sustainable production of, for example, e-fuels, sustainable chemical products and CCS, which is still unexploited today. In 2023, Europe could have utilised 29 Mt of biogenic CO2, based on the volume of biogas and biomethane produced in that year (22 bcm). This corresponds to 71% of the 2022 CO2 demand in the European Union.

With adequate support, over the next six years up to 2030, the number of jobs in the sector can grow towards 500,000 and generate an additional benefit of 12 billion €/year to the European bioeconomy, considering that at least 25 billion € will be invested in Europe’s biomethane by 2030.


Contact

Angela Sainz – EBA Communications Director sainz@europeanbiogas.eu Mobile +32 483 07 10 46

About the report

The EBA Statistical Report provides the most comprehensive analysis of the current state and future potential of the biogas and biomethane industries in Europe. It includes analysis on the various uses of biogases, with a specific section on transport, its contribution to the European economy, and detailed profiles of biogas developments across 28 European countries.

The EBA Statistical Report provides the most comprehensive analysis of the current state and future potential of the biogas and biomethane industries in Europe. It includes analysis on the various uses of biogases, with a specific section on transport, its contribution to the European economy, and detailed profiles of biogas developments across 28 European countries.

Report overview:

  • Chapter 1: Biogases within the EU energy and fertiliser landscape
  • Chapter 2: The biogases market
  • Chapter 3: Growth prospects and biogases potential
  • Chapter 4: End-uses of biogases
  • Chapter 5: The economics of biogases
  • Chapter 6: Country analyses

The EBA Statistical Report 2024 is available for free for all EBA members and upon purchase for external parties.

Get the slides from the launch webinar:

Watch the recording of the launch webinar

7-9 October 2025. Stuttgart – Germany

Energy costs and demands are rising and the future direction of the energy sector remains uncertain. Despite all the uncertainties, it seems clear that the future of energy supply will largely be based on all types of renewable energy sources. For this reason, the Biogas Intelligence+ conference aims to provide a platform to present and discuss strategies for the biogas industry in a post-subsidy environment. These strategies can be adapted to different countries and regions.

How can the industry become more profitable and productive? What role will artificial intelligence (AI) play both in terms of rising energy demand and optimization of biogas plants? How can the biogas industry protect itself from cyber threats? Is decentralization the key to future growth? How can the sector contribute more effectively to the circular economy? These are just some of the critical questions that will be addressed during the conference.

With this event, we also want to take a look at other upcoming topics – in the bioenergy sector – that we believe deserve more attention than they are currently receiving.

The topics of the conference are:

  1. Biogas and AI
  2. Clustering of biogas plants
  3. Cybersecurity
  4. Decentralized and regional energy concepts
  5. Direct sale of electricity and gas
  6. Energy storage (electricity, gas, heat)
  7. Innovative raw gas applications
  8. Intelligent circular economy

Get in touch

For media enquiries and registration, visit the website here.

Members-only networking event

We are pleased to announce the second 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 winter edition of the Biogases Business Day will bring together key players from the biogases value chain at the Interalpen- Hotel Tyrol in Austria, offering a unique platform on 6 and 7 February 2025 to exchange ideas, explore collaboration opportunities, and foster the advancement of biogases initiatives.

This event is supported by:

What’s on the agenda?

6 February

18:00 Welcome cocktail (Mountain Hut, 5 min from the hotel)

19:00 – 22:00 Dinner (Mountain Hut)

7 February

9:00 Welcome and state of the market – Harmen Dekker, CEO at EBA

9:20 Insights session

·        Cross-border biomethane trading – latest updates and implications for business – Julian Auderieth, Business Development Manager at AGCS Biomethan Registry Austria

·        Financing trends in the biogases sector – Bas Verloop, Partner at Longspur Capital

·        Business opportunities in Poland – Michal Tarka, Managing Director at Polish Biomethane Organisation

10:20 Coffee break and networking session

11:15 Insights session

·        Biomethane procurement and experiences of BASF – Daniel Schwender, Senior Manager Renewable Energy at BASF SE

·        Is the CO2 market opening up? – Guillaume Tuffigo, Head of Asset Management at SWEN Capital Partners

12:00 Lunch

13:00 Networking session

15:30 End of the Biogases Business Day

More information and registration are available on the EBANET (only for EBA members).

Join the following companies that already confirmed their participation:

ACT Commodities * AGCS Biomethan Register Austria * AXPO * BASF * biocirc * bioconstruct GmbH * BIOGEST * bmp greengas * Botres Global * bp * BPC Instruments * Caely * Capwatt Italia * CCC Energo Group * COSTA Cruises * CSC Commodities * DMT Environmental Technologies * EBRD * Ecospray * EGG Energy * EHOSS * ENGIE * Evonik * Gasum * Green Create * Green-en * Grissan * Heineken * Hexagon Agility * iogen * Iona Capital Limited * Kemira * Longspur Capital * MOL Group * Nature Energy * Nippon Gases * Nordsol * Polish Biomethane Organisation * Prodeval * Refuels * revis bioenergy * Rika Biofuel Develpments * Route to Market * Stakraft * Shell * STX * Tecno Project Industriale * Swen Capital Partners * UGS Europe * Vaisala * VARO Energy * Verdalia Bioenergy * VORN Bioenergy * VTTI * Wärtsilä Gas solutions * Xylem Water Solutions

Last October during the European Biogas Conference 2024, we celebrated the pioneers who are driving innovation in the energy transition and renewables. The EBA Awards 2024 recognised individuals and organisations that are making remarkable contributions to the biogas sector. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with some of them.

Consorzio Italiano Biogas (CIB) has been successful in building compelling narratives around the advantages of agricultural biogas. What strategies have you found most impactful in shaping a compelling narrative that resonates with both agricultural stakeholders and the general public, and how do you tailor these stories to different audiences?

Laura Simionato (Head of Communications and Marketing, CIB): Our narrative is built by the expertise, experience, sensitivity, and professionalism of everyone in our Consortium. From the communication team and agronomic experts to institutional representatives, technology providers, and especially our farmers, each contributes to advancing the sector and promoting the Biogasdoneright® model. Our farmers play a pivotal role, adding strength and authenticity to our communication. Their stories go beyond narrative; they become tangible through farm visits and events, persuading audiences through real, hands-on experiences. This approach bridges gaps in understanding, engaging both experts seeking in-depth knowledge and newcomers who benefit from experiential learning. The “Farming Days”, for example, is a format where we show sustainable practices, biogas and biomethane production, and their role in the ecological transition.

The Biogasdoneright® model and the “Farming for Future” project have been pivotal in promoting sustainable agriculture. How do these initiatives specifically benefit farmers? Can you share any success stories that highlight their impact?

Laura Simionato (Head of Communications and Marketing): Our farmers understand the environmental and economic benefits of adopting the Farming for Future project and the Biogasdoneright® model. They can optimise production, manage resources efficiently, innovate, while preserving biodiversity – all benefiting the environment and achieving a fully circular economy. Many farms have successfully integrated biogas into their operations, as showcased during the Farming Days 24 events. For instance, the Bagnod farm in Piedmont recently upgraded its two biogas plants to a 400 Sm³/h biomethane plant, the first funded by NRRP. Alongside energy production, they produce quality goods (wine, cheese, and cold cuts), practice digestate fertilisation, use advanced data mapping, and prioritise animal welfare, with year-round grazing for their cows.

Why was the Biogas Training Network founded in 2014?

Marion Wiesheu (Head of Qualification and Safety Department, German Biogas Association): Since 2005, the German Biogas Association (Fachverband Biogas) has been developing standardised training for biogas operators in Germany. In 2013, the introduction of mandatory safety training under TRGS 529, “Activities in the Production of Biogas,” prompted the creation of the Biogas Training Network in 2014. Founded by the German Biogas Association, the German Technical and Scientific Association for Gas and Water, and the German Association for Water, Wastewater, and Waste, the network addressed the need to train approximately 16,000 plant managers and representatives. The network continues to provide high-quality, standardised training programs, working closely with public authorities to ensure recognition and relevance. Its insights contribute to evolving training requirements and industry standards.

How has the Biogas Training Network evolved since then?

Marion Wiesheu (Head of Qualification and Safety Department, German Biogas Association): Today, 14 quality-assured educational institutions offer safety training under the unified teaching and examination framework of the Biogas Training Network. In addition to safety training for plant managers and their representatives, courses are now available for maintenance activities, biowaste processing, and employees of the biogas industry. The training content is regularly updated to reflect new developments, such as Leak Detection and Repair procedures. All training courses within the Biogas Training Network are now also accessible online and include a centrally organised digital examination, conducted by the German Biogas Association. Upon successfully passing the exam, participants receive an official certificate issued by the Biogas Training Network.

Ensuring compliance and preparing clients for sustainability certifications is a key feature of your software. Could you mention the biggest challenges companies face in meeting these standards and how your software addresses them?

Thorsten Nascimento Rohling (Managing Director & Product Development at agriportance GmbH): One of the main challenges in meeting sustainability certifications like REDcert-EU or ISCC-EU is identifying and organising the correct data for audits. Companies often need to demonstrate that each biomass delivery meets specific sustainability criteria, such as proof of a signed self-declaration from suppliers, delivery receipts to verify sustainability attributes, and lab analyses for biomethane yield. These extensive data requirements create complexities and increase the risk of non-compliance due to missing or misplaced documentation. Our software simplifies this process by providing an intuitive data management solution that centralises all required documentation and compliance records. This ensures that verification data is easily accessible and consistently organised, reducing the time spent preparing for audits and minimising potential non-conformities. By automating data validation and streamlining workflows for certification, we enable our clients to confidently meet regulatory standards while focusing on their core operations.

Looking ahead, how do you see the future evolution of your software? Are there any new features or functionalities you plan to develop to further support biogas operators in optimising efficiency and sustainability in the years to come?

Thorsten Nascimento Rohling (Managing Director & Product Development at agriportance GmbH): As regulatory requirements continue to expand, biogas operators must also enhance the tools they use to stay compliant and competitive. Reporting obligations are intensifying, with growing demands for documentation and validations. Additionally, new registers, such as the AIB Hub and the Union Database, require robust data integrations. Our roadmap includes enhancing API capabilities to enable seamless connections to these evolving systems and strengthening our mass balance tracking features. This will give producers and marketers a comprehensive view of addressable markets and the specific compliance requirements for each. By continuously updating our software to meet these diverse needs, we help biogas operators optimise both their efficiency and sustainability, ensuring they are well-prepared for a rapidly evolving market landscape.

You have been involved in both national and international initiatives. How important are global collaborations for advancing the biogas industry, and what lessons can Poland learn from other countries to accelerate its biogas and biomethane production?

Anita Bednarek (Head of Sustainability, Goodvalley): Global collaboration simplifies many processes and brings together different perspectives, knowledge and resources. It allows us to push the boundaries of understanding and find solutions to complex problems. But not only. It connects science, business, and administration so that knowledge and resources can be transferred in all directions. Thanks to this we can face many challenges, including those in the biogas industry. A global approach to collaboration fosters innovation, accelerates progress and gives access to valuable data. And this is where Poland should start – by analysing clever best practices and replicating them at national level.  We should use good practices, analyse legal solutions proven in other countries, reduce bureaucratic burdens or simplify investment procedures. In Poland, planned investments in biomethane amount to EUR 3.4 billion. We are the EU leader on this issue together with Denmark and Italy. But… in Denmark 30% of the gas in the grid is biomethane, Germany has more than 10,000 biogas plants and Poland has only 400 biogas plants and no biomethane plants. This can only be changed by making use of proven solutions used in other countries, i.e. global cooperation, e.g. in the context of functioning support systems.

As a trailblazer in the biogas sector, what advice would you give to other women looking to enter the biogas or renewable energy sectors, and what can be done to make the industry more inclusive for women to enter and succeed in this field?

Anita Bednarek (Head of Sustainability, Goodvalley): First of all, I would say to be courageous. To not be afraid to pursue your passions, goals and plans. To not give up and to be patient. It is not easy for us – women. So, we are afraid (wrongly) to show that we also have something to say, that we can do a lot for this sector, that we have ideas, that we are up to the job. This is not easy. Over my 15 years of activity in the biogas industry, I have had to deal with many different situations. But I didn’t give up. I have proven with hard work and commitment to a subject I believe in that you can. The change in the industry’s openness for women is noticeable. I want to believe that it is due to the fact that our potential has finally been recognised and not due to ESG reporting obligations. Over the last few weeks, I have conducted the biogas workshops schools, and it was a very positive surprise to me that there were many girls among the students. This means that the industry is ready for women, but we are the ones who must take that first step.

Anna Venturini, EBA Policy Director

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Anna Venturini as Policy Director of the European Biogas Association (EBA). To mark this exciting new chapter, we asked her a series of questions to learn more about her background and discuss her vision for the future of EBA’s Policy team.

How did your journey lead you to the energy sector?

My journey to the energy sector was driven by a long-standing passion for sustainable energy solutions, sparked by initiatives like the Green Deal, which highlighted the sector’s critical role in addressing global challenges. After nearly five years in the transport sector, where I gained a solid foundation in mobility and logistics, I was eager to transition into a field that aligns closely with my interests and values. The opportunity at EBA provided the perfect platform for me to deepen my expertise in the energy sector, combining my professional experience with my commitment to sustainability and innovation.

As you take on your new role, what do you see as the EBA’s most critical policy priorities in the coming months?

The new institutional cycle is a pivotal opportunity for the biogases sector. The EBA holds great expectations for the legislators to recognise and support the vital role of biogases in achieving Europe’s climate and energy goals. President Von der Leyen’s program and the mission letters to the designated Commissioners have already offered us a glimpse into the Commission’s priorities, signalling significant momentum for renewable energy and sustainability. We anticipate that this term will bring a series of important policy revisions, particularly the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), which are crucial for fostering the growth of sustainable biogas solutions. Moreover, we are especially eager to see the details of the Clean Industrial Deal, which has the potential to transform the EU’s industrial and economic strategy by driving innovation and scaling-up green technologies.

How do you see biogases contributing to Europe’s decarbonisation efforts, advancing the bioeconomy, and supporting energy transition goals?

Biogases play a pivotal role in Europe’s decarbonisation journey, driving the transition to a climate-neutral economy. They represent a key solution to defossilise the EU’s energy system while advancing bioeconomy and supporting energy transition goals. Looking ahead, the potential for biomethane production is substantial. Updated estimates indicate Europe could produce up to 44 bcm of biomethane by 2030, rising to 111 bcm by 2040 and 165 bcm by 2050. For the EU-27, this corresponds to 40 bcm in 2030, 101 bcm in 2040, and 150 bcm in 2050.

Considering the gas consumption trajectory developed in the European Commission’s 2040 Climate Plan, biomethane could meet much of the gas demand by that time, facilitating grid decarbonisation while also supporting other sectors, such as transport. However, unlocking this potential requires a strong and supportive legislative framework that prioritises renewable gases, streamlines permitting, and incentivises investments to scale-up biogases production.

What strategies do you plan to implement to engage key stakeholders and ensure the biogas sector is well-represented in EU policy discussions?

To ensure the biogases sector is well-represented in EU policy discussions, EBA will build on its strong collaboration with EU institutions and reaffirm its commitment to active engagement in this new legislative term. We aim to enhance communication with the European Commission, ensuring the sector’s voice is heard and contributing to policies that drive the energy transition.

In addition, EBA seeks to broaden its dialogue by engaging with a wide range of stakeholders, including political parties, to build consensus on the importance of biogases. We are also committed to strengthening our relationship with civil society through open communication with NGOs and think tanks, fostering mutual enrichment and overcoming skepticism. This collaborative approach will reinforce our sector’s role in the energy transition and build trust in biogas as a cornerstone of Europe’s sustainable future.

What role do you believe collaboration with other renewable energy sectors plays in strengthening the position of biogases within the energy systems?

Collaboration with other renewable energy sectors is essential for strengthening the role of biogases in the energy system. Achieving climate neutrality and a green energy mix requires diverse clean energy solutions, and no single technology can do this alone.

At both national and European levels, collaboration among renewable energy representatives is key to advancing policies that benefit the entire sector. EBA already has a strong network of allies, and the new institutional cycle presents an opportunity to deepen these partnerships.

By aligning on shared priorities, we can amplify our collective voice and demonstrate how renewable energy technologies complement each other. This will not only help overcome challenges but also maximise the benefits of the clean energy transition for all stakeholders, from policymakers to citizens across Europe.

12 December 2024, 10h-11h15 CET (online)

We are delighted to invite you to the seventh session of our EBA Dig Deep! Webinar Series: “Diversifying biomethane production: Gasification potential unlocked”. Join us on 12 December 2024, from 10:00 to 11:15 CET for this engaging online event.

In this webinar, we will unveil our new Gasification White Paper, offering an in-depth look into how gasification technology can expand and diversify biomethane production across Europe. As Europe intensifies its efforts to reduce its dependency on fossil fuel use, gasification stands out as a promising solution, converting organic materials into clean, renewable energy.

This event will provide an exclusive look at the latest advances in biomass gasification technology, key policies influencing its adoption, and an analysis of existing gasificiation plants across Europe. This will be followed by a dynamic discussion on the opportunities and challenges surrounding gasification  and its potential role in achieving a greener, energy-independent Europe.

Whether you are a policymaker, industry leader, or renewable energy enthusiast, this webinar offers a unique opportunity to gain insights and connect with experts from the renewable gases sector.

We look forward to welcoming you to this informative and forward-looking session.

Agenda

10:00-10:05 WELCOME Mieke Decorte, Technical Director, European Biogas Association
10:05-10:20 KEYNOTE Casper van Mourik, Senior Policy Advisor Renewable Heat, Dutch Ministry of Climate Policy and Green Growth
10:20-10:40 GASIFICATION WHITE PAPER UNLOCKED Anastasiya Agapova, Technical and Project Officer, European Biogas Association
10:40- 11:10 PANEL DISCUSSION
Moderated by: Mieke Decorte, Technical Director, European Biogas Association
– Staffan Hellsén, HSEQ Manager, Cortus Energy
– Nicola Bruni Zani, Renewables Business Developer, Pietro Fiorentini
– Gustav Rogstrand, Chief Unit, Rise Institute
11:10 – 11:15 CONCLUSIONS AND WRAP-UP
Mieke Decorte, Technical Director, European Biogas Association

5-6 February 2025. Nantes, France

Comprising a large international exhibition and multi-track conference programme, Bio360 is the international cross-roads dedicated to advancing the Biotransition through spotlighting bioenergy, the bioeconomy and atmospheric carbon removal.

What to expect from Bio360 2025 ?

Building on its international outlook and scope, central to Bio360’s mission is to scan the horizon far and wide to identify and bring together leading international practitioners, entrepreneurs, scientists, decision makers, public bodies etc who are embracing and committed to the biotransition.

Bio360 in a nutshell comprises a two day-exhibition dedicated to bioenergy and the bioeconomy, 400+ international exhibitors and 5000 professional participants, a rich programme of international conferences across 7 conference rooms, study tours the innovation competition … all key components of this stand-out event.

More information and registration here.

4th of December 2024 from 10:00 to 11:15 CET

We are pleased to invite you to the online release of the 14th edition of the EBA Statistical Report on 4 December at 10:00 AM CET. This landmark report provides the most comprehensive overview on the state-of-the-art of the biogas and biomethane industries in Europe.

The significance of renewable gases produced within Europe has never been more pronounced. Ensuring the EU’s global leadership in clean technologies in the coming years, including biogases, will be critical to drive economic growth while addressing pressing environmental challenges. Looking ahead to 2040, the potential of biogases is staggering: the sector could deliver up to 101 bcm of biomethane to the European Union.

During this webinar, the lead authors will present the key findings of the report and discuss the results of their analysis with the audience. Please find below the full webinar agenda and the registration link.

We are looking forward to a fruitful exchange on the current biogases market trends.

Agenda

  • 10:00-10:05 WELCOME Harmen Dekker, CEO, EBA
  • 10:05-10:15 KEYNOTE Marzia Sesini, Research Team Leader | FSR Gas and Hydrogen, Florence School of Regulation
  • 10:15-10:25 KEYNOTE Ana Alcalde, Energy Analyst, International Energy Agency
  • 10:25- 10:50 HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE EBA STATISTICAL REPORT 2024 EBA Technical Department
  • 10:50 – 11:10 Q&A SESSION
  • 11:10 – 11:15 CONCLUSIONS AND WRAP-UP Angela Sainz, Communication Director, EBA

This webinar is sponsored by EBRO Armaturen and AB Energy.

Brussels, 24 October 2024 – Whilst the EU competitiveness is at stake, the transition towards sustainable energy and the defossilisation of the EU economy remain of utmost importance. The biogases sector can provide already a competitive and sustainable alternative, but the many benefits of biogases need to be acknowledged and rewarded with new investments and a streamlined regulatory framework in order for the sector to be able to contribute to the energy transition.

The key role of biogases in the energy transition was under the spotlight during the European Biomethane Week, with their ability to build bridges between some of the key pilars of the Green Deal. The sector stands at the crossroads of multiple priorities under the new EU agenda which reach far beyond renewable energy production: reducing greenhouse gas emissions for EU residential sector, industry and transport, advancing the circular economy, or enabling a more sustainable and competitive farming sector, just to name a few.

In words of Professor Gemenne, researcher at the University of Liège, “the biogas industry is a clear example of what circular economy is, connecting so many elements together, that’s why it can make the energy transition happen.“ Nevertheless, this statement made during his opening speech was preceeded by a concern on the “increasing trend to oppose solutions between each other, despite the need to implement all possible solutions to decarbonise our economy.”

From a global standpoint, Paolo Frankl, Head of the International Energy Agency (IEA) Renewable Energy Division, underlined the expected global expansion of biogases in the coming years, with Europe as a leader on the production of these green gases. “Biogases can play a crucial role in the net-zero transition, as not everything can be done with electricity. However, the biogas industry will need better coordination between waste and energy policies, support to new investments through national targets and quotas and creating new demand for end-use sectors to continue growing.”

Meanwhile, the EU is preparing for a new legislative term where one of the key priorities will be the rollout of a Green Industrial Deal, encompassing climate mitigation efforts and economic competitiveness. Tatiana Márquez Uriarte, member of the cabinet of Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson, and speaker in one of the conference sessions, confirmed the 35 bcm of biomethane production target as a realistic goal ahead of the 2030 decarbonisation objectives, aimed at building a greener and more energy resilient EU.

Indeed, the opportunity to replace fossil gas imports with domestic biomethane production has already led some EU Member States to include biogas and biomethane targets in the update of their respective National Energy and Climate Plans, as explained by Giulia Cancian, EBA’s Secretary General at one of the panels. This is essential to provide market stability and facilitate further scale-up in the sector.

As the biogases industry grows, producers will need to rely on market-driven revenues such as certificates, to remain cost-competitive against fossil fuels. Certificates enable both energy suppliers and large energy consumers to make credible claims regarding their commercial offers or their sustainability reporting, as they seek to reduce their GHG emissions and achieve decarbonisation targets. This is one of the key messages that came out from one of the most attended breakout sessions addressing biomethane trading.

Contact

Angela Sainz – EBA Communications Director sainz@europeanbiogas.eu Mobile +32 483 07 10 46

A new analysis by S&P Global Commodity Insights and supported by EBA, ERGaR, Eurogas and the RNG Coalition, provides valuable input to the ongoing revision process of the GHG Protocol. The use of certificates will be critical to meet the increasing sustainable biomethane demand from the private sectors, support the economics of new production capacities and ultimately contribute to climate change mitigation efforts.

Brussels 24/10/24 A new analysis by S&P Global Commodity Insights and supported by EBA, ERGaR, Eurogas and the RNG Coalition, provides valuable input to the ongoing revision process of the GHG Protocol. The use of certificates will be critical to meet the increasing sustainable biomethane demand from the private sectors, support the economics of new production capacities and ultimately contribute to climate change mitigation efforts.

The EBA, ERGaR, Eurogas, and the RNG Coalition engaged S&P Global Commodity Insights to review biomethane certification and tracking systems in Europe and the USA. The analysis examines the role of certificates for producers and consumers in major demand sectors, the additionality of biomethane production associated with certificate use, and a review of historical certificate values in both regions, highlighting key price drivers.

Biomethane is a key driver of GHG emissions reductions, amounting to reductions of around 15 million metric tons of CO2e in the EU in 2023 and around 5 million metric tons of CO2e in the US. Tracking the use of biomethane through certificates conveys their renewable and climate value to energy consumers, providing sustainability guarantees and transparency about the production process. This enables energy suppliers and large energy consumers to make credible claims regarding their commercial offers or their sustainability reporting, as they seek to reduce their GHG emissions and achieve decarbonisation targets.

As the biomethane sector scales-up, certificates are critical for biomethane producers to rely on market-driven revenues instead of government support schemes and allow biomethane projects to be cost-competitive against conventional natural gas and other fossil fuels. Demand for biomethane procured via certificates comes from compliance markets (e.g. road transport fuels) and increasingly voluntary markets, with leading European and US corporations such as food and beverage companies, chemicals producers or shipping companies.

In the European Union, the trading of biomethane is legally tracked through Guarantees of Origin (GOs) and Proof of Sustainability (PoS) certifications, supporting biomethane capacity development and incentivising the use of sustainable low carbon feedstock. Additionally, the EU Union Database for Biofuels (UDB) will become operational at the end of 2024, facilitating the traceability of mass-balanced certificates.

The importance of robust biomethane tracking systems and understanding the value of biomethane certificates becomes apparent when considering the forecasted unprecedented growth in biomethane production to 2030. The EU has set an ambition to produce 35 bcm/y by 2030.

A significant part of this growth needs to come from the voluntary market where the GHG Protocol guidance is an essential element as many companies rely on the protocol as main tool to account and report their GHG emissions. Currently, the GHG Protocol does not provide explicit guidance on how companies should use certificates to account for GHG emissions savings achieved by procuring biomethane. Biomethane certification schemes have proved to be functional in helping to scale up biomethane production in the EU and US compliance-based markets. The report released today stated that additional clarity and alignment on the inclusion of biomethane in GHG Protocol, will facilitate the development of sustainable biomethane production and use globally.


Contact

Angela Sainz – EBA Communications Director sainz@europeanbiogas.eu +32 483 07 10 46

Anthony Lorin – EBA Senior Policy Analyst lorin@europeanbiogas.eu


12 December 2024. Berlin, Germany

The World LNG Summit & Awards is the meeting place for the most senior LNG leaders from across the global value chain to define the critical role LNG, gas and renewable fuels will play in delivering energy security, economic stability, and the ongoing drive for decarbonisation. Now in its 24th year, it will welcome over 750 attendees, 200 senior speakers, and over 500 companies from 50 countries.

Under the theme, “Achieving the balance between energy security and decarbonisation”, the World LNG Summit & Awards 2024 features the World LNG Summit and the World LNG Awards Evening, in addition to the newly added features, including the World Renewable Fuels Conference, Leadership Roundtables and the Traders Programme.

LNG’s continued evolution aligns with the World LNG Summit’s vision of accelerating the energy transition whilst ensuring a balanced energy landscape. The World LNG Summit & Awards 2024 will be hosted in Germany – with a steadfast political and financial commitment to developing its first LNG terminals and infrastructure to underpin its energy security. As LNG continues to deliver reliable, cleaner, and more efficient energy solutions to meet the world’s growing energy demands, it has a significant role in the energy mix and as a destination fuel. It presents the unique opportunity for lower emissions, enhanced market resilience, and reduced reliance on coal. The conference serves as a catalyst to explore the latest developments in geopolitics and energy security, the decarbonisation of LNG and the globally traded LNG market.

EBA CEO Harmen Dekker will take part in ‘Session 5: How can the biomethane market enable economic development and energy security?’ on 12 December.

Get in touch

For media enquiries and registration, please contact: marketing@worldlngsummit.com, or visit the website here.

Etienne Philippe, Project Officer, GRDF

In this interview, we explore the evolving landscape of e-methane production with Etienne Philippe, Project Officer for Renewable and Low-Carbon Gases at GRDF. As a pioneer in France’s renewable gas sector, GRDF recently marked a significant milestone with the country’s first e-methane injection in July 2022. Etienne discusses the current landscape, highlighting that around a dozen power-to-methane projects are in development, which could collectively produce up to 8 TWh by 2035. He also emphasises the importance of utilising biogenic CO2 from anaerobic digestion and gasification plants, as well as the regulatory frameworks essential for scaling up e-methane production.

Can you provide an update on some of GRDF’s most recent methanisation projects, and how they are contributing to the growth of biomethane production in France?

GRDF has been heavily involved in the development of renewable gas in France for over a decade. As of today, more than 700 anaerobic digestion plants are already injecting biomethane into the gas network, with nearly 600 units connected to GRDF’s distribution grid. Overall, the installed biomethane production capacity exceeds 12,5 TWh/year, representing 3% of annual gas consumption. To reach a fivefold increase of green gases production by 2030, GRDF is also supporting innovative technologies such as waste gasification (pyrogasification and hydrothermal gasification) and power-to-methane, which will be crucial for meeting our objectives regarding energy transition and greenhouse gas emissions reduction. To this matter, we are proud to have published, in mid-2024, an Overview of Green Gas Technologies (Report in English) that covers the dynamics of all these technologies, including R&D challenges, key advancements toward industrialisation, as well as pioneering projects.

How does GRDF see the growth trajectory of e-methane production in France over the coming decade?

GRDF hosted France’s first e-methane injection in July 2022, successfully conducted by the ENERGO demonstrator, which converted CO2 from a biomethane plant in Sempigny. This milestone echoed the first injection of agricultural biomethane nearly ten years earlier. There are now around a dozen power-to-methane projects in development across France, exploring various architectures in terms of size (ranging from 10 to 150 Nm3/h), technology (catalytic or biological methanation), and CO2 sources (industrial or biogenic CO2, either pure or mixed in raw biogas). GRDF is particularly invested in accompanying three power-to-methane projects that are expected to be commissioned by the end of the year or early 2025 (MethyCentre by Storengy, Pau-Lescar Biofactory by SUEZ, Denobio by ENOSIS).

By 2035, we can expect several industrial-scale e-methane projects to be operational in France, representing up to 8 TWh of production. In fact, e-methane projects can benefit from biomethane development in two main aspects:

Firstly, biogenic CO2 feedstock. Anaerobic digestion plants (and gasification units in the mid-run) represent a very pure source of biogenic CO2, with low to negligible capture costs. For instance, most upcoming projects are located next to biomethane plants, utilising sewage sludge or agricultural residues. The proximity of these units also enables synergies such as thermal integration or biogas upgrading through methanation. Secondly, strong regulatory framework. Biomethane has paved the way for other renewable, low-carbon, and recovered gas technologies. Any gas producer is entitled to access the gas grid for injection. Additionally, green gases are eligible for the “right to inject” framework supervised by the French Energy Regulator, which ensures the optimisation of gas grid development while sharing the costs of plant connections and grid reinforcement (e.g. compression stations from the distribution to the transportation grid) between gas producers and consumers.

What role do you see e-methane playing in France’s overall energy mix and carbon reduction strategy over the next decade?

In the latest ten-year gas prospective exercise, Perspectives Gaz 2024, GRDF and other French gas operators anticipate that the advancement of renewable and low-carbon gases – expected to exceed 40% of the French gas mix by 2035 – combined with a 30% reduction in consumption through sobriety, energy efficiency, and energy substitution, will contribute to lowering greenhouse gas emissions in line with the Fit for 55 plan. Biomethane from anaerobic digestion will play a significant role in gas decarbonation, alongside gasification technologies. Additionally, e-methane can benefit from the CO2 co-produced by these processes, as mentioned earlier. More broadly, the power-to-methane sector will help loop the energy system, closely interacting with the development of intermittent renewable electric energy in the medium and long term.

Do you believe the European policy framework is ready to scale up e-methane production, or are specific regulatory improvements still needed?

It is necessary to close the gap between fossil and renewables energies, including gas. Despite their complexity, RED II and more recent RED III frameworks are essential for steering energy production toward sustainable practices, combined with carbon taxation schemes or sector-specific renewable incorporation targets. Regarding e-methane, a clear definition of low-carbon gases is still pending at the EU level prior to the national implementation of the regulation.

Along with new technologies for gas production, the development of e-methane requires support mechanisms to be implemented quickly to facilitate the emergence of the first projects and provide long-term economic incentives.


About GRDF

GRDF is the main gas distribution system operator in France, distributing gas to more than 11 million customers every day, regardless of their supplier. As part of its public service mission, GRDF builds, operates, and maintains the largest gas distribution network in Europe (200,715 km) safely and to the highest quality standards. Decarbonisation is at the core of GRDF’s new company project, which aims to support a fivefold increase in the production of renewable and low-carbon gases in France by 2030, halve its activities’ emissions, as well as help clients and partners reduce their carbon footprints.

The German biogas industry is going through a period of change and international cooperation for the implementation of biogas plants has become increasingly important in recent years.

Industrial-scale biogas technology offers a wealth of opportunities to provide renewable energy (electricity, heat, fuel) and fertilizer. In addition, various revenue streams can make the operation profitable. However, knowledge about the advantages, possibilities and opportunities of biogas is still not very widespread.

From autumn 2024, the webinar offer of the German Biogas Association will be extended to include English language contributions and the events will be made available to a worldwide audience. These international webinars are aimed at beginners who want to familiarize themselves with the basics of biogas technology as well as experienced professionals who want to refresh their knowledge on various biogas-related topics.

19th November 2024 – International Webinar: Biogas Basics

08:00 AM CET

For more information, click here.

19th November 2024 – International Webinar: Biogas Basics

05:00 PM CET

For more information, click here.

25th November 2024 – International Webinar: Biogas Technology and Biomethane

08:00 AM CET

For more information, click here.

25th November 2024 – International Webinar: Biogas Technology and Biomethane

05:00 PM CET

For more information, click here.

10th December 2024 – International Webinar: Economics of biogas and project development

12:00 PM CET

For more information, click here.

14th January 2025 – International Webinar: Feedstock, Biowaste & Digestate

12:00 PM CET

For more information, click here.

12-13 December 2024, Warsaw (Poland)

The ninth edition of the Biogas Congress will take place on 12-13 December 2024 at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel & Conference Centre in Warsaw. This year’s meeting, organised by Magazyn Biomasa, will once again bring together representatives of the national and European biogas sector and will be held under the slogan: „Biogas – new chapter”. During the conference we will discuss key issues regarding new opportunities for the domestic biogas market as well as the use of biogas, biomethane and bio-LNG in agriculture, heating, energy and transport.

This conference is addressed to:

  • investors planning to build new biogas plants
  • owners of operating biogas plants
  • technologists and managers of waste management and sewage treatment plants with biogas installations
  • owners of large farms and agri-food processing companies
  • fuel, transport and energy-intensive companies
  • technology and equipment suppliers
  • energy sector representatives
  • Polish and European biogas associations
  • representatives of government administration and local government officials

More information and registration here.

Ramping up biogas and biomethane production is key to ensuring a fast, resilient and affordable energy transition for the decarbonisation of all economic sectors and the shift towards a circular economy. The use of biogases to reduce GHG emissions is already a reality in the transport, buildings and industrial sectors, concentrating over 80% of the EU’s energy consumption[1].

Let’s explore which end-uses already rely on biogases in the run towards climate-neutrality and how could the situation look like in the coming years. Within the framework of the Biomethaverse project, the European Biogas Association (EBA) has investigated the substitution of natural gas with biomethane in the different gas-consuming sectors, and has provided potential challenges and drivers related to its usage, estimating its contribution to decarbonise different sectors in Europe.

Thanks to their flexibility as energy carriers, biogases not only boost energy supply volumes and contribute to greening the EU’s gas and electricity grids, but also offer dispatchable power across sectors. This is strategic for ensuring a stable and reliable energy supply by accommodating fluctuations in electricity demand, enhancing grid stability and seasonal gas storage. Additionally, biomethane consists of the same molecule as methane and can therefore be used in all sectors that use natural gas.

A renewable gas with many applications

If we look at the specific end-uses, the utilisation of biomethane in the industrial sector today is a key lever to meet the GHG mitigation targets by 2030, as it ensures a fast and cost-competitive replacement of fossil alternatives. It serves as a sustainable fuel, providing a renewable source of heat and power in various industrial processes where options for decarbonisation are limited.

Biomethane can also be used as feedstock for the chemical synthesis of basic chemicals and for the manufacturing of non-metallic minerals (e.g., cement, glass and ceramics), as well as iron and steel. It is well-suited for the production of pharmaceuticals, plastic, and various chemicals (e.g., ethanol, hydrogen) and is used in sectors such as the food industry. It also plays a crucial role in the production of fertilisers, such as ammonia, which is a key ingredient in the urea synthesis process.

Biomethane is also one of the few readily available alternatives to fossil fuels for long-distance and energy-intensive heavy-duty transport segments (HDVs), such as coaches and trucks. The production of biomethane as transport fuel, either in compressed (bio-CNG) or liquified (bio-LNG) form, has proven to be an effective option for the decarbonisation of the maritime sector as well. By 2030, biomethane could constitute 10-20% of the maritime fuel mix, playing a crucial role in reducing emissions from shipping.

In European households, space heating represents almost 80% of household energy consumption, making it the largest portion of energy demand in Europe. Biogases can be used in cogeneration systems that produce power and heat simultaneously, serving residential, commercial and industrial purposes. By using biomethane, which is compatible with existing gas-based space-heating systems and district heating networks, hospitals, offices or retail spaces could reduce their reliance on non-renewable resources. Furthermore, biomethane can complement the electrification of household heating by using hybrid heat pumps that can be tailored for versatile applications (e.g., switching to biomethane during peak electricity demand or in the cold season).

The primary end-use of biogases varies from country to country depending on regulatory frameworks, market demand, and the extent of the gas grid infrastructure. Regarding geographical variations in biomethane end-use in Europe, the EBA’s database shows that the majority of biomethane produced in countries like Italy, Sweden, and Norway is used in the transport sector. In contrast, in countries such as Germany, a larger portion of the biomethane produced is used to heat buildings or is converted into electricity.

Driving up the uptake of biomethane

Biomethane is a competitive renewable energy source. The deployment of biomethane to replace fossil fuels does not require the investment of additional resources to develop new infrastructure: the existing gas infrastructure in Europe is biomethane-ready.

Multiple factors significantly impact the decision to use biomethane, beyond its availability. Carbon-cost savings under the EU Emission Trading Scheme (ETS) and Biomethane Purchase Agreements (BPAs) make biomethane an attractive option compared to other low carbon energy carries. Nevertheless, these market mechanisms, including the Guarantees of Origin (GOs) system, Proofs of Sustainability (PoFs), and other measures certifying the renewable origin of the gas are not yet fully mature.

A clear and stable legislative framework setting a level playing field in Europe, with no internal market barriers and effective support schemes, is crucial for scaling up the use of biomethane. Increased EU climate and renewable ambitions to drive the uptake of biomethane, together with streamlined permitting processes, are necessary to guarantee a timely scale-up of biomethane production capacity. Biomethane should be tracked and traded consistently across different areas, recognising the amount of green gas produced and used (mass balance) and allowing it to be traded across borders.


About the authors

Gabriella Papa –Technical Officer papa@europeanbiogas.eu  

Anna Venturini- Policy Manager venturini@europeanbiogas.eu


[1] Data from 2021 included in EBA Statistical Report 2023

Brussels 09/09/24 The European Biogas Association (EBA), in collaboration with experts in biogas and methanation technologies, is launching the first assessment of the rollout of e-methane in Europe. This synthetic renewable fuel will play a key role in Europe’s electricity grid, scaling-up biomethane production in the coming years, and enabling innovative synergies between biogases and hydrogen production in the future energy mix.

In the methanation process, renewable hydrogen produced from excess renewable electricity combines with biogenic CO2 from raw biogas to produce e-methane, which can be stored in the gas grid, providing a crucial energy storage solution and boosting the flexibility of the energy system.

According to the white paper Mapping e-methane plants and technologies released today, e-methane production in Europe is expanding rapidly. There are currently 35 operational plants, 33 of which are fully renewable. Germany leads the way with 14 facilities. Additionally, 20 new e-methane plants are either planned or under construction in Europe, signalling further growth in the sector.

Methanation has proven successful in various pilot and demonstration projects, including the EU-funded BIOMETHAVERSE project, which showcases innovative biomethane production pathways. Among those, a case study in Sweden. “Our demonstration plant is showcasing biological syngas methanation to produce 16 kW of methane from forestry residues and renewable hydrogen by 2024 to 2026”, explains Karin Berg, R&D Engineer at RISE Research Institutes of Sweden.

Over the past eight years, e-methane production capacity in Europe has increased from 20 GWh per year to 449 GWh per year. Projections indicate that by 2027, this capacity will nearly reach 3,000 GWh per year, equivalent to 0.27 billion cubic meters (bcm). Finland, Germany, and Denmark are pioneering this rollout, with the largest production capacities.

The production of e-methane also holds significant potential to valorise biogenic CO₂. In fact, more than 80% of all identified plants utilise biogenic CO2 in their processes. Additionally, its versatility as a low-carbon fuel source makes it a valuable contributor to the decarbonisation of all economic sectors in Europe, including transport, buildings and industry. 

A robust legislative framework is essential to tap into the full potential of e-methane. “To help the EU achieve its energy and climate goals, policymakers should ensure legal certainty and a level playing field for all renewable energy sources, including biomethane and e-methane. This will boost production and support their development and use.“, says Anna Venturini, EBA Policy Manager.

In addition to the white paper, EBA also publishes an interactive map of operational e-methane plants in Europe, accessible only to EBA members.


Contact

Fanny Lamon – EBA Communications Officer lamon@europeanbiogas.eu

Gabriella Papa – EBA Technical Officer papa@europeanbiogas.eu

cover image

In collaboration with biogas and methanation experts, the European Biogas Association (EBA) published a paper to outline the role of the methanation process within the framework of energy system integration and its potential to increase renewable green gas production in Europe (Chapter 1). Insights are provided as to e-methane’s place within renewable gas production, the technologies available and its production chain (Chapter 2). Furthermore, the European e-methane production plants are mapped, with the main figures and trends summarised. The mapping exercise provides insights into current e-methane production volumes and future growth, technology orientation, CO2 sourcing, plant sizes and end use (Chapter 3). Market strategies and economic considerations are summarised in Chapter 4. Finally, considering the technical background and economic framework, policy perspectives and recommendations are formulated for an enabling EU regulatory framework (Chapter 5).

Download the paper

We are delighted to invite you to the fifth European Biogas Association Dig Deep! Webinar “Mapping e-methane plants and technologies: The role of e-methane in the total energy mix”, on 9 September, from 10:00 to 11:30.

This episode promises to be an insightful deep dive into the evolving landscape of e-methane and its pivotal contribution to the overall energy mix. We will examine how the methanation process plays a crucial role in energy system integration, with a focus on its potential to significantly boost the production of renewable green gas across Europe.

During the webinar, we will also unveil our latest white paper on methanation, which provides a comprehensive overview of current technologies, market trends, and future prospects in the sector. Our expert panel will guide you through the key findings, offering an in-depth analysis of the data and discussing the strategic implications for industry stakeholders.

Agenda

  • 10:00 – 10:05 Welcome Giulia Cancian, Secretary General, European Biogas Association 
  • 10:05 – 10:15 Keynote Gergely Molnár, Gas Analyst – Gas, Coal and Power Markets Division, International Energy Agency (IEA)
  • 10:15 – 10:30  Mapping e-methane plants and technologies Mieke Decorte, Technical Director, European Biogas Association
  • 10:30 – 10:40 Q&A session
  • 10:40 – 11:25 Panel discussion Moderator: Giulia Cancian
    • Alessandro Agostini, Head of the Sustainability of Energy Technologies Unit, Energy Technologies and Renewables department, ENEA
    • Gautier Mangenot, Public Affairs Senior Consultant – Energy / ENOSIS, Representative from BIP TF 4.1
    • Étienne Philippe, Renewable and low-carbon gases Project Officer, GRDF
  • 11:25 – 11:30 Conclusion and wrap up Giulia Cancian, Secretary General, European Biogas Association 
Annette Kroll, Head of Regulation & Advocacy at ENGIE.

Currently operating 38 biomethane plants across France, the UK, and the Netherlands, ENGIE aims to ramp up production significantly with ambitious plans to reach 10 TWh by 2030. With a dedicated investment budget of 3 billion euros, ENGIE is committed to reducing Europe’s carbon footprint and enhancing energy resilience. We spoke with Annette Kroll, Head of Regulation & Advocacy at ENGIE, about ENGIE’s biomethane activities and ambitions for the renewable gas sector.

Tell us more about the new business unit ENGIE just launched. Why is it important?

We launched our new business unit, “ENGIE Renewable Gases Europe”, about one year ago to consolidate all renewable gas activities into a single managerial entity. This milestone significantly strengthens our ambitions to develop green gases. The entity focuses on biomethane from anaerobic digestion but also covers new technologies.

Today, we own and operate 38 biomethane plants in France, the UK and the Netherlands, with a total production capacity of more than 1 TWh. Additionally, we are developing our “Salamandre” project in the port of Le Havre, which aims to industrialise a new production technology for renewable gas through the gasification of solid feedstocks.

How is ENGIE ensuring the sustainability of its biomethane production processes?

The environmental, social, and economic sustainability of our projects is a key concern for us. We place great emphasis on partnerships and the involvement of local communities, including the local population, local authorities, the agricultural ecosystem, and local industrials.

We have more than 500 farmers as partners and recently launched a survey to allow them to evaluate our cooperation in France. The outcome shows great satisfaction, which was a pleasant surprise, as industrial players are sometimes viewed with skepticism in rural environments. 70% of our farmer partners said they would engage with ENGIE again. Those who would not re-engage cited various reasons, such as planning to retire soon.

In terms of environmental sustainability, our larger plants are all RED-certified. Currently, we predominantly use waste from agriculture, the agri-food industry, and municipalities. We have committed to ensuring that the share of food and feed crops remains minimal (not exceeding a 1-digit percentage) as we expand our capacities and enter new countries. Finally, we work with farmers to enhance sustainable farming practices, such as returning nutrients to the soil via digestate and implementing intermediary cropping.

What are ENGIE’s ambitions for biomethane in the mid-term?

We aim to achieve a production capacity of 10 TWh by 2030 in Europe and have dedicated an investment budget of 3 billion euros to this goal.

Why are we doing this? Because we are convinced that biomethane can make a substantial contribution to Europe’s decarbonisation and renewable energy targets. It will also help to create a more resilient energy system, reducing dependency on imports and enhancing the system integration of variable renewable power sources. We firmly believe in the complementarity of green electrons and green molecules.

In the next legislature, climate regulations will be revised. What topics would you like policymakers to discuss?

One of the debates in the next legislative term will be Europe’s 2040 decarbonisation target. We hope that the contribution of biomethane will be properly taken into account. This is an opportunity to introduce more specific and effective target(s) underpinned by market-based mechanisms to promote biomethane and other renewable gases. Strong targets are important to create long-term visibility for our sector.

Moreover, there remains work to be done to fully implement a European market for biomethane and remove technical and political barriers. Non-EU countries like the UK and Ukraine should also be connected and able to trade in this market.

Finally, we see topics “beyond energy” that need to be discussed at European level. How can we mobilise additional feedstock such as intermediary crops? What is the right framework to better valorise by-products such as biogenic CO2 and digestate?

We count on such discussions to happen with a pragmatic, market-friendly, and technology-open mindset.


About ENGIE

ENGIE is a global reference in low-carbon energy and services, striving daily to accelerate the transition towards a carbon-neutral economy through reduced energy consumption and more environmentally friendly solutions. ENGIE is committed to achieving Net Zero Carbon by 2045 across all three scopes. Our strategy is underpinned by a vision: the alliance of the electron and the molecule. To implement this vision, ENGIE has earmarked growth investment of 22 to 25 billion euros for 2023-2025, to be allocated to renewables power, energy solutions, the development of renewable gases, and battery storage projects.

Members-only event

Join us for the launch webinar of the EBA Biogas Manual on 3 September from 10:00 to 10:45!

The biogases industry crosscuts many different sectors, from agriculture and waste management to heating and transport, to mention a few of them. All these sectors have specific European legislation that applies to them. Understanding this complex EU regulatory framework is prerequisite to a successful biogas or biomethane project.

At EBA we help you to overcome this challenge by keeping track and informing you about EU policy developments. Now, we are taking this task to a new level by publishing a first-ever, members-only Manual on applicable EU legislation and standards for the sector.

Examples of questions covered in the Biogases Manual:

  • What does the EU law state about the use of agricultural feedstock?
  • What sustainability criteria should I apply to my new production project?
  • Are there any requirements for the storage of digestate?
  • How does the EU incentivise the use of biomethane in transport?
  • How can the EU support financially my projects?  
  • ..and many others on financing, heating, transport, procurement.

Whether you are a regulatory expert or a business developer unfamiliar with the EU complexities, the Biogases Manual will provide you with comprehensive insights into the legislative landscape.

Agenda

Welcome and introductory remarks – Giulia Cancian (EBA Secretary General)

The Biogas Manual: How to use it – Anthony Lorin (EBA Senior Policy Analyst)

Glimpse into the 8 Chapters of the Manual – Florence Goarin (EBA Policy Officer), Lucile Sever (EBA Policy Officer), Anthony Lorin (EBA Senior Policy Analyst), Anna Venturini (EBA Policy Manager)

Q&A – EBA Policy team

Climate change exacerbates water stress: from unpredictable rainfall patterns to shrinking ice sheets, most impacts of climate change come down to water and the disruptions in the water cycle could profoundly alter how we live our lives. The biogases value chain, closely linked with water cycles, offers solutions on multiple fronts: it supports wastewater recovery and water purification, enhances soil health, and provides a new source of water for irrigation.

Climate change increases the likelihood of droughts and makes them more severe and prolonged. Rising temperatures modify precipitation patterns and affect snowpacks and glaciers, which act as natural water reservoirs by releasing water slowly over time. This leads to drought and water stress, significantly impacting agriculture and, more broadly, soil health. Today, 60 to 70% of European soils are unhealthy[1] due to climate change.

A holistic approach to address water stress as a critical part of climate change mitigation is essential. The whole European bioeconomy, including the biogases value chain, will need to assess their efforts to tackle this global challenge.

Enhancing water circularity and resilience with biogases

Water circularity is integral to the biogas value chain. Municipal wastewater (sewage sludge) and industrial wastewater can be used as feedstock for biogas production via a water purification process. In municipal wastewater treatment, biogas is generated from the remaining sewage sludge after water purification. In industrial wastewater treatment, an additional step enables the production of biogas using wastewater as feedstock. This reduces the waste load and the need for the following energy-intensive purification processes.

Biogas plants can also address water stress: digestate, used as an organic fertiliser, increases the organic matter in soils, improving their water retention and resilience. Additionally, advanced cleaning technologies, such as innovative combinations of ultrafiltration (UF) and reverse osmosis (RO),allow pioneering plants to produce clean water from digestate, which can be used for industrial processes, maintenance of green areas, or agriculture, further alleviating water stress. Many biogas plants recycle also the digestate to reduce on-site water consumption.

A water strategy to boost water resilience and sustainability

On the 17th of June 2024, the Council of the European Union highlighted “the important regulating role of water cycles for ecosystems, human life and the functioning of the economy and our society” in its conclusions on the mid-term review of the 8th Environmental Action Programme. To ensure the preservation of this vital role, a comprehensive Water Resilience Initiative is essential and long overdue. The strategic initiative should ensure the benefits of biogas plants are fully utilised, including the use of clean water from digestate for various applications and the valorisation of the digestate itself to enhance soil properties. An integrated EU approach to water, which could incorporate water-related criteria into energy policies, would help enhance water resilience and sustainability.

Besides, green waters, held in soil and available to plants, are crucial for agricultural resilience. EU policies should reward agronomic practices that enhance water retention, such as using digestate or implementing sequential cropping as feedstock for biogas production. A higher focus on innovative water-saving technologies in biogas plants would also help address water resilience and sustainability challenges.

The European Biogas Association (EBA) actively participates in the European Commission’s Research and Innovation program. EBA is a partner in the FER-PLAY project and has also participated in the SYSTEMIC and Nutri2Cycle projects. These initiatives aim to advance technology and knowledge sharing, particularly in upgrading and applying digestate, which ultimately contributes to boosting water resilience and sustainability.

EBA is also a member of the Water Resilience Coalition, a group of 30 organisations dedicated to prioritising water issues in the new European Commission mandate.


About the authors

Lucile Sever – Policy Officer sever@europeanbiogas.eu

Mieke Decorte – Technical Director decorte@europeanbiogas.eu


[1] Commission Staff Working Document accompanying the EU soil strategy for 2030 of 17 November 2021 SWD(2021)323 final.

Published on 11 July 2024

The European Biomethane Map is an annual publication by the European Biogas Association (EBA) which this year includes for the first time an open-access interactive map, built with the support of EBA members, who have provided the necessary data. Additionally, the digital and print versions of the European Biomethane Map are the result of an ongoing collaboration between the EBA and Gas Infrastructure Europe (GIE). Sources of each country are listed on the map. Data covers active facilities under operation, according to the available EBA dataset by June 2024.

Discover the interactive version of the European Biomethane Map 2024

Brussels 05/07/24 Europe has reached an installed capacity of 6.4 billion cubic meters (bcm) of biomethane per year, according to the European Biomethane Map released today. 81% of the capacity corresponds to plants located in the European Union (5.2 bcm). The EU-27 countries’ growth has reached 37%, while the capacity of the non-EU countries analysed grew by 20% compared to the 2022-2023 dataset.

The total installed capacity of European biomethane can contribute to avoid nearly 29 million tons of CO2 emissions annually and produce 830,000 tons of organic fertiliser per year. These plants can also provide renewable energy to 5 million European households throughout the year, or fuel 145,000 bio-LNG year-round, delivering Europe’s long-term energy security and climate mitigation objectives.

The map features 1,548 biomethane plants. This represents a 32% growth in the number of plants in Europe compared to the previous edition, which featured 1,174 units. Over 80% of the reported biomethane plants are now connected to the gas grid, with nearly half of them (49%) connected to the distribution grid and 14% to the transportation grid.

France is one of the countries leading the biomethane scaleup pathway and has nearly doubled its capacity compared to the previous edition of this map. Italy has also shown significant growth, increasing its number of plants four-fold and its total plant capacity more than threefold, while the United Kingdom and Denmark maintain their positions among the top five biomethane producers in Europe. Germany remains the biggest biomethane producer, but has paused the construction of new plants.

The momentum in the biomethane sector aligns closely with the 2030 objectives set forth in the REPowerEU plan. €25 billion in private investments have been so far secured by 2030 and this will result in the installation of 950 new biomethane plants, as reported in recent analysis by the European Biogas Association.

The 2024 Biomethane Map highlights the significant growth of the biomethane sector, demonstrating industry’s determination in achieving the REPowerEU targets. To sustain this progress, it is crucial for EU member states to identify clear targets and pathways and for the EU itself to support the sector with long-term policies and administrative simplification for operators. This commitment will ensure a robust and resilient energy transition across Europe.”Giulia Cancian, EBA Secretary General

The European Biomethane Map is an annual publication by the European Biogas Association (EBA) which this year includes for the first time an open-access interactive map, built with the support of EBA members, who have provided the necessary data. Additionally, the digital and print versions of the European Biomethane Map are the result of an ongoing collaboration between the EBA and Gas Infrastructure Europe (GIE). Sources of each country are listed on the map. Data covers active facilities under operation, according to the available EBA dataset by June 2024.

‘’This 5th edition illustrates that biomethane is today’s green solution. Gas infrastructure operators welcome this 37% increase and will keep bolstering its development. Natural gas and biomethane’s synergies are invaluable at technical, economic and policy levels. This makes this renewable gas fit for today’s gas infrastructure and for our clients. With supportive policies and collective efforts, we can help sectors decarbonise quickly and cost-effectively while avoiding stranded assets.’’ Pierre Duvieusart, GIE Biomethane Area Sponsor & GIE Board Member.


Contact

Anastasiya Agapova – EBA Technical and Projects Officer agapova@europeanbiogas.eu

How are biogases produced and utilised, and what are their main benefits for the environment, society, and energy landscape? Explore our publication ‘Decoding Biogases: Made in Europe, Sustainable, and Affordable’ for insights.

Key highlights include:

  • Biogases: the all-rounders of the future energy mix
  • Latest data on biogases production in Europe
  • Facilitating a resilient energy transition
  • Decarbonising the EU economy with biogases
  • Valorising digestate and bio-CO2
  • Enabling a negative emissions footprint
  • Socio-economic benefits across the biogases value chain

Brussels 18/06/24 The European biomethane sector will receive an injection of €25 billion in private investments by 2030, according to a European Biogas Association (EBA) analysis released today.  This represents a 30% increase compared to last year estimates. The 2nd edition of the Biomethane Investments Outlook forecasts €2.1 extra billion investments in the pipeline, but yet to be allocated.

The projected investments by 2030 will result in the installation of 950 new biomethane plants across Europe, alongside the 1,300 facilities already operational. This will add 6.3 billion cubic meters (bcm) of biomethane capacity annually to the continent, which could contribute to avoiding nearly 29 million tons of CO2 emissions each year, providing renewable energy to 5 million European households year-round, and producing 830 thousand tons of fertiliser annually.

Investments will be mostly located in Denmark (€3.6 billion), Poland (€3.4 billion) and Italy (€2.4 billion). In the case of Denmark, the share of biomethane in the gas grid is close to 40% and there are plans to increase this production to substitute 100% of the gas demand before 2030.

Two years following the launch the REPowerEU plan, the industry is swiftly mobilising to achieve the 35 bcm biomethane production target by 2030. Investments are crucial to fully unlock biomethane production potential and streamlining the development of new plants across Europe.

Aligning the EU Taxonomy with the REPowerEU objectives for biomethane will direct capital towards the sector. The EU Taxonomy plays a crucial role in incentivising green investments, although challenges in implementing screening criteria persist. To secure the announced investments, it is essential to implement aligned policies, maintain stable regulatory frameworks and facilitate long-term end-use of biomethane and its co-products.

EBA will present the key outcomes of this analysis on 5th July at the webinar “Biomethane scale-up in figures: Mapping new plants and investments across Europe”, which will also unveil the new edition of the European Biomethane Map.


Contact

Mieke Decorte – EBA Technical Director decorte@europeanbiogas.eu

EBA monitors biomethane investments yearly to forecast the growth of the sector and better identify market trends, drivers and gaps.

The second biomethane investment outlook identifies a growing commitment from industry with a total of 27 billion EUR allocated to invest in biomethane production. This marks a growth of 9 billion EUR compared to investments identified one year ago. The figures presented in this outlook are based on replies from 26 investors and project developers within the EBA, 2 more compared to the previous edition. The investments are projected to deliver 6.3 bcm/year of biomethane capacity to Europe by 2030.

We are delighted to invite you to the fourth European Biogas Association Dig Deep! Webinar Biomethane scale-up in figures: Mapping new plants and investments across Europe”, on July 5, from 10:00 to 11:30, disclosing the most recent data on biomethane production facilities in operation and the private investment currently driving the growth of the sector with the launch of a new edition of the European Biomethane Map and the EBA Biomethane Investment Outlook.

2024 marks the second anniversary of the REPowerEU plan, an initiative that has seen rapid mobilisation within the industry to meet the ambitious goal of producing 35 bcm of biomethane annually by 2030. With an estimated total biomethane potential of 41 bcm by 2030, the sector is set for significant growth.

Investments are crucial to fully unlock biomethane production potential, streamlining the development of new plants across Europe, the decarbonisation of existing gas infrastructure and the integration of innovative technologies.

We look forward to discussing together the future of biomethane in Europe and exploring the opportunities for further investment and growth.

Programme

  • 10:00 – 10:05 Welcome

  • 10:05 – 10:15 Keynote

Phd Biljana Kulisic, Policy Officer, Unit C2 Decarbonisation and sustainability of energy sources, Directorate-General for Energy, European Commission

  • 10:15 – 10:25 2nd EBA Biomethane Investment Outlook

Mieke Decorte, Technical Director, European Biogas Association

  • 10:25 – 10:35 ENGIE’s biomethane portfolio

Annette Kroll, Head of Regulation and Advocacy, ENGIE

  • 10:35 – 10:50 Q&A session
  • 10:50 – 11:00 European Biomethane Map 2024

Anastasiya Agapova, Technical and Project Officer, European Biogas Association

  • 11:00 – 11:10 Infrastructure facilitating biomethane growth

Pierre Duvieusart, GIE Biomethane Area Sponsor

  • 11:10 – 11:25 Q&A session
  • 11:25 – 11:35 Concluding Keynote

Harmen Dekker, CEO, European Biogas Association

Air Liquide recently adopted an internal charter developed with WWF France and other experts, including the European Biogas Association, to enhance sustainable biomethane production. It focuses on four main pillars: contributing to the energy transition, supporting agroecological practices, maximising benefits for local ecosystems and promoting a circular economy, and preserving biodiversity while preventing environmental risks. We spoke with Arnaud De Veron, Sustainable Development Leader, to learn more.

Could you briefly present Air Liquide’s Biogas Solutions?

Air Liquide, a world leader in gases, technologies and services for industry and healthcare, has developed competencies throughout the entire biomethane value chain. This includes biogas production from waste, its purification into biomethane, and its injection into gas grids or compression/liquefaction for storage and transportation to customers. Air Liquide currently operates 26 biomethane production units worldwide, with a yearly production capacity of approximately 1.8 TWh.

Could you elaborate on the inception of this collaboration project with WWF France and Air Liquide’s proactive approach to sustainable biomethane production?

In 2020, we carried out Life Cycle Assessments on two of our biomethane production units. The results highlighted the diversity of impacts of our sites. While every energy production asset can have both positive and negative environmental impacts, the multifunctionality of anaerobic digestion likely contributes to a broader range of externalities. This finding underscored the need for us to better understand and monitor the sustainability characteristics of our current operations and future projects, going beyond existing regulations that primarily focus on biomethane as an energy vector.

To reach this goal, we collaborated with WWF France to leverage their expertise in defining sustainability criteria to improve our projects and bring further legitimacy to our approach. Air Liquide Biogas Solutions and WWF France joined forces to design a first set of principles, criteria, and indicators to frame what sustainable biomethane production means with the support of some other stakeholders (consultants, academia and the European Biogas Association). 

What are the main findings of this collaboration and the main commitments of Air Liquide?

The collaboration led to consider that the development of sustainable biomethane relies on 4 main principles:

  1. Contribute efficiently to energy transition
  2. Be a lever for agroecological practices   
  3. Maximise benefits for local ecosystems and promote circular economy
  4. Preserve biodiversity and prevent environmental risks

The main findings are further detailed in a public synthesis that aims to increase the awareness of the potential impacts of biomethane projects and to engage further collaboration with the ecosystem toward more efficient sustainability frameworks.

Could you provide some specific examples of actions taken by Air Liquide?

Besides the public synthesis, the collaboration aimed to develop an internal charter for our investment committee to assess the sustainability of any new projects based on (i) clear and thorough criteria considered as “Sustainability Essentials” for selection purposes and (ii) key sustainability indicators combined into an overall “Sustainability Score” for comparison purposes.

For instance, this frames the followings:

  • production projects should not incorporate food-and-feed crops (except intermediate crops)
  • facilities are designed to minimise methane and ammonia losses
  • biomethane carbon footprint reduction and energy return on investment maximisation are incentivised
  • agroecological practices (e.g. diversification and chemicals minimisation for the intermediate crops) are promoted

What are the main limits and what could be the next steps?

First, I would emphasise that beyond this generic framework, the sustainability of each project depends on local conditions. Moreover, this internal charter must be seen as a humble contribution that will certainly evolve in the future and that needs to be discussed, enriched, and challenged by other stakeholders. In particular, biomethane projects are embedded within existing agricultural systems and the farmers are a crucial part of the equation. It will be necessary to engage more with them in the future.

We also need to collaborate more with the authorities to make sure that government incentives favour equally economic success and sustainability. We must seek systemic, impactful, and pragmatic measures and create a level playing field that promotes the most sustainable practices.

May 23, 2024 03:00 PM

ALFA’s webinar on Challenges and needs for the uptake of biogas in livestock farming in Europe will be the first of 6 webinars organized by the ALFA project and Sustainable Innovations. White Research will present a series of identified barriers, needs, and enabling factors to the uptake of biogas in livestock farming, based on European-wide surveys of experts and citizens. The European Biogas Association will present the current status of biogas in Europe and the benefits of enhancing its adoption. Attendees will also have the opportunity to share their experiences and voice their concerns about existing challenges and needs particular to their regional contexts.

More information and registration here

Using manure from livestock farming for biogas production has positive environmental and economic impacts. These include reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by replacing fossil fuels, mitigating air, soil, and water pollution through improved manure management, and diversifying farmers’ income. In this article, we explore the strategies adopted through the ALFA project to achieve this objective and highlight the benefits of unlocking the biogas potential from livestock farmers. Additionally, we shed light on the social perception and acceptance.

Sustainable agriculture as driver of biogas production

According to the European Biogas Association’s 2023 database, the agricultural sector significantly contributes to European biogas and biomethane production, with 67% of biogas and 64% of biomethane originating from agricultural plants. This shows the substantial role of agricultural feedstocks like manure, sequential crops, and other residues. The recently published Guidehouse report “Biogases towards 2040 and beyond: A realistic and resilient path to climate neutrality” calculates that by 2040, 82% of the biogases potential will be derived from agriculture, with 43% from sequential crops, 20% from agricultural residues, and 19% from animal manure. This indicates a continued integration between the agricultural sector and renewable gas production.

In that context, the ALFA project aims to harness the significant role of agriculture in the biogas sector by tapping into the potential of biogas production specifically from livestock farming. The goal is to promote wider uptake of renewable energy sources and increase the share of bioenergy as a flexible energy source, all while reducing emissions from untreated animal waste and supporting the creation of new jobs and the local economy.

The diverse frameworks and specificities of local biogas markets across Europe require an adaptable approach that goes beyond uniform strategies when supporting the scaleup and market uptake of biogas technologies.

Critical challenges for livestock farmers

During the initial phase of the ALFA project, partners assessed the current social, economic, and legal factors that hinder the use of anaerobic digestion (AD) technologies for on-farm biogas production. They concluded that the six target countries of the project have high potential to use livestock manure to enhance their biogas production. However, they still face specific barriers.

In Greece, unused biomass and a lack of biomethane commercialisation persist due to inadequate financial incentives for biogas projects.  Farmers’ limited technical know-how and awareness of biogas benefits remain a challenge in Spain. Slovakia encounters logistical barriers especially in grid infrastructure, alongside insufficient public support, and regulatory clarity for biogas operations. Italy’s biogas growth is slowing down by complex authorisation procedures and social opposition. Belgian farmers find obtaining a permit to install a biogas plant difficult. In Denmark, farmers require assistance in both business and technical aspects.

A survey of 3,000 EU citizens revealed a limited understanding of biogas production from manure. While respondents generally have positive perceptions of its environmental and economic benefits, there are misconceptions, such as concerns about health impacts and the safety of production technology. Some also believe biogas production can worsen odours and lower property values nearby.

Local ecosystems: a core element of biogas production

To address this multitude of challenges, ALFA established regional hubs in six European countries (Belgium, Denmark, Greece, Spain, Italy, and Slovakia) early in 2022 and started engaging with local stakeholders to setup regional networks as an effective mechanism for engagement and cooperation with the local ecosystems. These networks were instrumental in conducting framework analyses of the biogas sector, identifying success stories and co-designing an inclusive and responsive local-needs-approach in all biogas project activities.

Based on in-depth interviews with successful biogas and biomethane implementations, ALFA hubs came up with valuable recommendations for prospective investors:

  • Firstly, consider the operational and maintenance demands of running a biogas plant, factoring in initial design, operation, and maintenance plans to mitigate investment risks and secure biomass feedstock. Return on investment typically spans 6-7 years, varying by country.
  • Before installation, conduct 4-5 manure analyses to accurately assess biogas potential. Also, the quality of liquid manure is easier to work with than thick manure, though this may vary depending on the specific case.
  • Diversify feedstock and integrate renewable energy sources to broaden income streams. Prioritise biomethane plant implementation alongside biogas facilities for optimal outcomes.
  • Given bureaucratic challenges, having project participants knowledgeable in authorisation and implementation processes proves advantageous, especially considering significant variations across countries and regions.

In addition to the above recommendations, ALFA also created decision support tools to provide actionable knowledge and science-based information to livestock farming for leveraging the potential of biogas and fostering a fruitful environment for ideas exchange, networking, and collaboration. These resources  are available through the ALFA Engagement platform and include: the Livestock Biogas Library (with various materials, including articles), a Decision Support Tool (for assessing biogas projects in terms of profitability and environmental and social benefits), an interactive map with active Biogas Cases, an online repository named Knowledge Center with useful informative materials, and a Biogas Forum serving as an open environment for nurturing novel ideas and exchanging best practices.

The ALFA project is designed to act as a catalyst of biogas production by offering demand driven support for livestock farmers to take up biogas solutions, while also providing policymakers and stakeholders insightful information on biogas market dynamics. The project will complete its journey by providing science-based information to livestock farming decision makers for the potential of biogas in the form of policy recommendations. Additionally, it aims to raise awareness of the general public on misperceptions about biogas and bioenergy and contribute to the market uptake of biogas solutions in the livestock sector by producing an easy-to-use replication guide.


About the author

George Osei Owusu – Project and Technical Officer owusu@europeanbiogas.eu , ALFA Consortium konstas@qplan-intl.gr

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 3 May 2024.

Using biomethane to reach net-zero emissions in primary steel and dispatchable power

Biomethane as a renewable energy source can be used to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in various end use sectors. This study aims to provide insights on the abatement costs and potential of biomethane compared to other forms of renewable and low-carbon energy. It shows that biomethane can play a relevant role as a cost-effective abatement option irrespective of its sustainable production potential.

This report focuses on the abatement costs of biomethane to produce dispatchable electricity and to provide high temperature heat and carbon-rich feedstock to produce steel, as two relevant examples. Biomethane could perform well in ‘sweet spots’ in other end use sectors too. Modelling is required to obtain a more definite view on the merits of biomethane in all end use sectors.

Biomethane is produced with net-zero lifecycle emissions, if manure is used in the average feedstock mix, and no main crops. Using manure avoids methane emissions which offset the (limited) supply chain emissions from other feedstocks. The greenhouse gas emission performance of biomethane can be enhanced by applying negative emission measures. Biomethane can provide negative emissions in three ways: (1) carbon storage in the soil when growing biomass, (2) precombustion carbon capture in the production of biomethane and (3) post-combustion carbon capture when using it.

Production costs of biomethane could be €70 per MWh on average, noting that production in large installations is significantly cheaper than in smaller ones. This cost level equals a renewable hydrogen cost of just over €2 per kilogramme.

The marginal abatement cost curves presented as example case studies in this report show that biomethane is a cost-efficient abatement option in the production of dispatchable electricity and in primary steel production. The abatement potential of biomethane in both assessed sectors is capped by the supply potential that can be made available for consumption in these sectors.

In the electricity system, electricity from biomethane is the most cost-effective option to balance the electricity system in particular during ‘windless winter weeks’, making use of inexpensive storage in existing gas storages. In primary steel production, biomethane can be used in the DRI process, thereby replacing existing steel production that uses cokes coal. Most steel abatement options end up with remaining emissions. Biomethane combined with CCS is not only the most cost-effective option to achieve net zero emissions steel production, but beyond that it achieves climate positive steel.