Events

Ecomondo: six macro thematic areas outline a single ecosystem for the ecological transition

With a new payoff: The Ecosystem of the Ecological Transition, Ecomondo confirms its role as the European leader in technologies for the circular and green economy.

It will cover everything from the valorisation of waste to the regeneration of soil, agro-forestry and food ecosystems, energy obtained from biomass, and the use of waste as a secondary raw material. As well as the entire integrated water cycle and environmental monitoring, the protection of the seas and water environments. With a 58% increase in foreign visitation compared to 2021, the involvement of profiled operators from abroad will continue for this year edition.

All these features and news have met with the approval of multinationals, companies, associations and organisations that have already confirmed their presence in November.

Visit the event website for more details

On December 14-15 2022, the 7th edition of the Biogas Congress will be held at the Airport Hotel Okęcie in Warsaw. This year’s meeting of representatives of European biogas sector will be held under the slogan: “Biogas – an answer to the deepening energy crisis”.

During this year’s Congress, key issues will be discussed regarding new opportunities for the domestic biogas market and the use of biogas, biomethane and bioLNG in agriculture, heating, industry and transport.

Visit the event website for more information

Nearly 30% more biomethane plants compared to the 2021’s edition

“Biomethane production has enjoyed a remarkable growth in the last decade and this upwards trend goes on with a nearly 30% increase in the number of biomethane plants compared to the previous edition of this map. This is a strong signal on the efforts of the industry to scale up production and push for further acceleration to reach the 35 bcm target by 2030 proposed by the European Commission in the REPowerEU plan.” Highlights Harmen Dekker, EBA’s CEO.

“Gas infrastructure operators are determined to support the European Commission’s vision to upscale the biomethane economy. We acknowledge our mission to connect producers to consumers and will ensure that biomethane’s exponential growth keeps thriving. Already today, we store and transport biomethane. It’s good to open the door for more renewable molecules to integrate Europe’s energy system. More biomethane produced at the European level is also good news for EU’s energy independence.” Complemented Boyana Achovski, GIE Secretary General.

Zoom in on the facts & figures:

• Europe reached a total of 1,322 biomethane-producing facilities by April 2023.
• These 299 new plants represent nearly 30% more than the ones reported in the previous edition of this map in 2021.
• Compared to the previous editions of the map, the number of plants in Europe has steeply increased: 483 plants in the 2018 edition, 729 in the 2020 edition and 1,023 in the 2021 edition.
• 1,174 plants out of the total reported were located by the EBA and displayed on the map launched today.

Europe is already producing over 3.5 bcm of biomethane. This represents a production increase rate of 20% in 2021. An even bigger increase is expected for 2022 where, despite consolidated data not being disclosed, estimations confirm a significant rise in the number of plants and production shares.

Additionally, the data collected for the preparation of this map shows that over 75% of the current plants are already connected to the transport or distribution grids. Regarding feedstock use, a clear trend towards agricultural residues, organic municipal solid waste, and sewage sludge is visible. From 2017, almost no new plants were established to run on monocrops.

Biomethane deployment around Europe

The countries with the strongest growth in their biomethane production in 2021 were France (+ 2,130 GWh), Denmark (+ 1,642 GWh) and Germany (+ 1,553 GWh). In absolute numbers, the largest producers of biomethane in 2021 were Germany (12,753 GWh), the United Kingdom (6,183 GWh), Denmark (5,683 GWh), France (4,337 GWh), the Netherlands (2,374 GWh) and Italy (2,246 GWh).

Get your free map today!

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About this map

The Biomethane Map is the result of an ongoing collaboration between the EBA and GIE. The map has been built with the support of EBA members, who have provided the necessary data, and the EBA Secretariat. Sources of each country are listed on the map. Data covers active facilities under operation, according to the available data by October 2022. Availability depends on the country. Many more plants are planned or under construction. Further analysis of the biogas and biomethane markets can be found in the EBA statistical report 2022.

Contact

• Mieke Decorte, EBA Technical and Project Manager – decorte@europeanbiogas.eu +32 484 63 44 61
• Gabrielle Lelievre, Communication Advisor – gabrielle.lelievre@gie.eu +32 478 78 34 83

The 2022-23’s edition of the Biomethane Map showcases the most recent and available data on Europe’s biomethane plants. It was produced by the European Biogas Association (EBA) and Gas Infrastructure Europe (GIE). The map has been built with the support of EBA members, who have provided the necessary data, and the EBA Secretariat. Sources of each country are listed on the map. Data covers active facilities under operation, according to the available data by October 2022. Availability depends on the country. Many more plants are planned or under construction. Further analysis of the biogas and biomethane markets can be found in the EBA statistical report 2022.

Zoom in on the facts & figures:

• Europe reached a total of 1,322 biomethane-producing facilities by April 2023.
• These 299 new plants represent nearly 30% more than the ones reported in the previous edition of this map in 2021.
• Compared to the previous editions of the map, the number of plants in Europe has steeply increased: 483 plants in the 2018 edition, 729 in the 2020 edition and 1,023 in the 2021 edition.
• 1,174 plants out of the total reported were located by the EBA and displayed on the map launched today.

On 4 and 5 July 2023, the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) is jointly organising with the Directorate-General Climate for Action (DG CLIMA) a two-day event to help applicants submit a successful application for the third small-scale call. To achieve this goal, CINEA is proposing a twofold approach:  

• On the morning of 4 July, an online event where CINEA, DG CLIMA and a couple of successful small-scale projects from previous calls will provide valuable tips on successfully preparing an application for the Innovation Fund. Participants will learn about the main challenges, most common mistakes and how to avoid them. There will be an opportunity for questions and answers (Q&A) using slido. 
• On the afternoon of 4 July and the full day of 5 July, CINEA and DG CLIMA will host online orientation sessions that will be webstreamed. Selected projects will have the occasion to present their project idea at a public event and ask questions to CINEA and DG CLIMA representatives. Project presenters are recommended to note the public nature of this event and refrain from disclosing any confidential information. 

Register here.

More information can be found here.

2023 marks 55 years since MARCOGAZ creation in 1968.

Over 55 years, MARCOGAZ has been adapted to cope with the new priorities in the energy sector, as well as to all technical innovations. MARCOGAZ’s activities have been grounded on the role of gas infrastructure, utilisation, sustainability and the emergence of renewable and low carbon gases towards the decarbonisation of gas systems.

MARCOGAZ takes this opportunity of celebration to invite you to its 55th Anniversary Conference & Gala Dinner, taking place on Thursday 22 June 2023 at the Hotel Le Louise in Brussels, Belgium.

Don’t miss the opportunity to join MARCOGAZ’s community on the specific discussion around ‘The role of gas infrastructure in decarbonising the energy system’.

Check full programme and speakers here.

Register here.

EBA representative at 55th MARCOGAZ Anniversary Conference: Harmen Dekker, EBA CEO

Are you looking to establish longlasting and reliable relationships for your project or company in the field of biomethanisation? Then be sure to attend our TAGGRendez- vous event!

About RENDEZ-VOUS | TAGG

This event, proposed by gas.be as part of the Libramont Fair, aims to promote networking between operators and project leaders (agricultural, industrial or territorial) and suppliers of solutions in biomethanisation.

During the Libramont Fair

The agricultural, forestry and agri-food fair of Libramont is the largest outdoor fair in Europe. Libramont is a welcoming space to meet and network, a real living laboratory where you can touch, feel, taste, hear and see the world of tomorrow.

The fair welcomes nearly 200,000 visitors, 700 exhibitors and 4,000 brands every year on a 200,000 m² site.

Visit event website for more information.

Pietro Fiorentini’s virtual event dedicated to the European biomethane industry, 25 May 2023

Pietro Fiorentini is pleased to announce the launch of the virtual event Net-Zero: the biomethane journey – Paving the way to a greener future, that will be held on Clevercast platform on Thursday 25th of May 2023 at 3PM.

The purpose of the event is to address the biomethane situation at a European level, involving experts and stakeholders from the energy sector to share their visions on biomethane generation, its different applications and the current and future challenges to reach the full potential of this essential green energy source.

The event will feature among the speakers some of the leading international experts from energy companies, associations and institutions involved in the biomethane field.

The event live streaming will be available in English, Italian and French. Participation is free: we invite all those who wish to register at this link.

More information about the agenda here.

Brussels 19/04/23 – The European Biogas Association (EBA), in collaboration with international biogas experts, is launching a white paper on methane emissions originating from anaerobic digestion (AD) plants to support and advise the industry, European policymakers, and AD operators. “The biogas and biomethane industry is a large net reducer of methane emissions, but a minimal share of fugitive emissions can occur during the biogas production process. The sustainable scale-up of the sector to support the energy transition and reach the 35 bcm biomethane production target by 2030 represents an opportunity for the value chain to achieve efficient plant design and implement leak mitigation strategies.” highlights Giulia Cancian, EBA’s Secretary General.

Biogases have a pivotal role in reducing EU methane emissions in the agricultural, energy and waste sectors, as recognised by the 2020 EU Methane Strategy. Methane emissions are avoided when methane emitted from organic matter, such as manure and biowaste, are brought to the closed and controlled environment of an AD plant, instead of being released into the atmosphere.

However, methane emissions can also occur accidentally along the biogas production process. The white paper ‘Design, build, and monitor biogas and biomethane plants to slash methane emissions’ concludes that the biogas industry is well advanced in developing strategies to mitigate those emissions. According to data from voluntary and mandatory measurements analysed in the paper, these remain minimal when appropriate measures are taken. Current plants are planned, built, and operated specifically to prevent methane losses. The state of the art of biogas plants and affected plant components has significantly advanced and AD plant developers and equipment manufacturers are continuously working on further improvements.

15 years of on-site experience show that the most cost-effective manner to reduce methane emissions at AD plants is the combination of regular self-inspections, periodic reporting of methane emissions as part of monitoring programmes and training courses for plant operators.

Minimising methane emissions at AD facilities has several additional beneficial effects. Reducing methane emissions is cost-efficient, as small losses of the energy contained in methane gas can lead to considerable financial losses. Moreover, avoiding methane leakages is important for safety, environmental aspects and odour avoidance.

According to Mieke Decorte, EBA’s Technical and Project Manager, “Methane emission mitigation can be further strengthened with sound research improving the understanding of methane emissions at technical level. Additionally, policies should acknowledge and incentivize mitigation measures undertaken by individual plants. For example, an update of the default values for methane emissions included in the Renewable Energy Directive Annex VI should accommodate mitigation measures in place in existing plants and acknowledge the improvements in design and operations from the past decade”.

• Download press release
• Download white paper “Design, build, and monitor biogas and biomethane plants to slash methane emissions”

Watch EBA video series “Tackling methane emissions at biogas plants”

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Contact

• Angela Sainz – EBA Communications Manager, +32 483071046  sainz@europeanbiogas.eu
• Mieke Decorte – EBA Technical and Projects Manager decorte@europeanbiogas.eu

The European Biogas Association (EBA), in collaboration with biogas experts, has conducted a review of methane emissions originating from anaerobic digestion (AD) plants to support and advise the industry, European policymakers, and AD operators. This paper provides a solid technical review of occurring emissions (Chapter 1), leakage detection and emissions measurement (quantification) (Chapter 2), mitigation strategies (Chapter 3) and results from measurement campaigns (Chapter 4). Taking into consideration the current policy context and technical background, the EBA has formulated a set of actionable-policy recommendations (Chapter 5).

Download press release

Watch EBA video series “Tackling methane emissions at biogas plants”

The European Biogas Association (EBA) is the voice of sustainable biogases in Europe and is committed to the expansion of sustainable biogas and biomethane production and use throughout the continent. We are a growing association representing over 200 members including national associations, corporate members, and research institutes, spanning 34 countries.

As part of our continuous growth, we are seeking to employ an enthusiastic and motivated Events Assistant with some experience in the organisation of events to support the ongoing outreach activities of the organization on a full-time basis.

Tasks & Responsibilities

The candidate will assist the communications team on the implementation of EBA internal and external meetings, events and conferences or other dissemination actions.

His/her main responsibilities will be:

• Support the organisation of the European Biomethane Week to be held on 24-26 October Brussels (EBA’s flagship annual event with 500 expected attendees);
• Assistance with the organization of other events and internal meetings (workshops, webinars, working group meetings and General Assembly);
• Support to dissemination activities in EU projects;

Profile

• Degree in Public Relations or Events Management;
• Proven experience in the organisation of events and meetings is a must;
• IT-savvy with knowledge of CMS and project management tools will be highly desired;
• Good command of English, any other European language will be considered an asset;
• Highly organised individual with a flair for teamwork;
• Proactive and good communicator;
• Ability to prioritise and work in a fast-paced environment;
• Eligibility to work in the EU is required.

We offer

• A 6-month paid internship for a junior profile offering valuable work experience in a stimulating international environment;
• A position within the renewable energy sector to impact the shift towards a cleaner world and higher EU energy independence;
• Public Transport allowance;
• Hybrid working environment (3 days working at the office in Brussels and 2 days working from home office);

How to apply?

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 Events Assistant’ by 30 April at the latest. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis and the successful candidate will be expected to join EBA’s team in Brussels as soon as possible. Please consider that only the selected candidates will be notified for further process and interview.

Over the next five years, 22 partners from nine European countries will join forces in the EU-funded project BIOMETHAVERSE meant to diversify the technology basis for biomethane production in Europe, to reduce production costs, and to contribute to the uptake of biomethane technologies. The project will support the scale-up of biomethane production to 35 bcm by 2030 proposed by the REPowerEU.

Biomethane is a renewable and environmentally sustainable substitute of natural gas able to provide energy storage capacity and perform as a flexible renewable energy carrier and fuel. As such, biomethane is well placed to contribute to the achievement of climate goals and energy security alike.

BIOMETHAVERSE sets out to increase the biomethane production potential in Europe. Over the past decade, biomethane production has been steadily growing. Europe’s total biomethane production in 2021 amounted to 3.5 bcm and is expected to increase in the coming years reaching 35 bcm by 2030 (EBA Statistical Report 2022). By then, BIOMETHAVERSE is expected to boost the current biomethane production by 66%. This upscaling of biomethane production could enable 113 Mt CO_2eq GHG savings in Europe, which is similar to the current GHG emissions of Belgium.

To this aim five innovative biomethane production pathways will be demonstrated in five European countries: France, Greece, Italy, Sweden, and Ukraine. The project’s production routes cover one or a combination of the following production methodologies: thermochemical, electro-biochemical, and biological. As a starting point, four demonstration plants use conventional anaerobic digestion (AD), and one uses conventional gasification.

The project enables and encourages different energy sectors to work together. In BIOMETHAVERSE’s demonstrators, CO₂ effluents from AD or gasification and other intermediate products are combined with renewable hydrogen or renewable electricity to increase the overall biomethane production. BIOMETHAVERSE therefore contributes to energy system integration by optimising and modernising the function of the energy system as a whole (Biogases: Beyond Energy, Energy System Integration).

BIOMETHAVERSE’s innovations also aim to ensure that biomethane reaches gas grid quality standards at affordable production prices allowing the scale-up of biomethane production in Europe. Today, the production cost of biomethane ranges from €55/MWh to €110/MWh, depending on feedstock, technology and plant scale. The project is expecting to reduce biomethane production costs by 44%. In order to maximise the impact of the innovations, all partners are committed to ensuring the replicability and upscaling of the demonstrated production pathways while guaranteeing swift market access to the technologies.

In addition to the environmental benefits, BIOMETHAVERSE will also contribute to support the renewable energy sector in reaching the necessary workforce. By 2030, the project is expected to create 294,000 additional jobs. The biogas and biomethane industries are already responsible for 220,000 jobs today.

“All project partners are determined to steer BIOMETHAVERSE towards meeting its full innovation potential in biomethane production. Biomethane is a cornerstone of the present and future energy system, and BIOMETHAVERSE will strongly contribute to shape it.”, states Stefano Proietti, Project Coordinator of BIOMETHAVERSE.

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Contact

• Project Coordinator: Stefano Proietti (ISINNOVA) sproietti@isinnova.org
• EBA Communications Officer: Fanny Lamon (European Biogas Association) lamon@europeanbiogas.eu

About BIOMETHAVERSE

BIOMETHAVERSE aims to diversify the technology basis for biomethane production in Europe, to increase its cost-effectiveness, and to contribute to the uptake of biomethane technologies. Project website: https://www.biomethaverse.eu/

Partners

Istituto di Studi per L’Integrazione dei Sistemi, European Biogas Association, Agenzia nazionale per le nuove tecnologie, l’energia e lo sviluppo economico sostenibile, Bioenergy Association of Ukraine, Bioaerio Lagada Anonymi Etaireia, Ethniko Kentro Erevnas Kai Technologikis Anaptyxis, Research Institutes of Sweden AB, Cortus Energy AB, WARTSILA Sweden AB, ENGIE, Aeris Tecnologías Ambientales S.L., Acondicionamiento Tarrasense Associacion, Danmarks Tekniske Universitet, Friedrich Alexander-Universitaet Erlangennuernberg, Cap Holding Spa, Energigas Sverige Service AB, PrJSC “MHP EKO ENERGY, Politecnico di Milano, Consorzio Italiano Compostatori, Società Italiana Acetilene e Derivati SpA, DBFZ Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum gemeinnüetzige GmbH, Ellmann Engineering GMBH.

In 2023, the III Renewable Gas Trade Fair will be held again after the magnificent reception that the second edition of the event had by professionals in the sector last October. The Spanish Biogas Association (AEBIG), as a technical partner, and the Spanish Biomass Association (AVEBIOM), as the organizing entity, launch this new edition with the aim of continuing to accompany the sector in its definitive drive to become a fundamental engine of the decarbonization and competitiveness of our economy. In the third edition, which is held on October 3 and 4, 2023 at Feria de Valladolid, exhibitors will show the latest technological innovations that will allow them to take advantage of the business opportunities that are opening up in the coming years on the peninsula.

Why participate?

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

Take the opportunity
At present, there is a clear political commitment in Spain for these technologies that had not been manifested to date. Spain is already working to define a stable framework to make biomethane development a reality, as required by the European Green Deal , the National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan and the draft Law on Climate Change and Energy Transition.

Visit the event website for more information

PACE is a major EU project unlocking the large-scale European deployment of the state of the art smart energy solution for private homes: Fuel Cell micro-cogeneration.

By the end of the project, PACE will see over 2,500 householders across Europe reaping the benefits of this home energy system. The project will enable manufacturers to move towards product industrialisation and will foster market development at the national level by working together with building professionals and the wider energy community. The project uses modern fuel cell technology to produce efficient heat and electricity at home, empowering consumers in their energy choices.

The Final Event of the PACE project is free of charge, and you are welcome to attend either in person or online. For those attending in person, a light lunch will be provided and there will also be a networking reception at the end of the day.

Agenda and registration form available here.

You are invited to a two-part seminar addressing the decarbonization power that biomethane/renewable natural gas (RNG) brings to the transportation sector. The seminar will be held on Thursday, 23 March at Hexagon Composites’ offices in Oslo, as both an in-person and digital event. 

More information and registration form available here

EBA representative: Harmen Dekker, EBA CEO

Brussels 14/02/23 – On the 14^th of March, the European Parliament adopted in Plenary sitting the ITRE Report on the revision of the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, a milestone in the decarbonization of the buildings sector.

EBA praises the European Parliament for clearly recognizing the decarbonization potential of heating technologies certified to run on renewable gases, such as biogas and biomethane.

Buildings are the EU’s single largest source of energy consumption, accounting for 36% of CO2 emissions and 40% of total energy consumption, of which 60% is taken up by heating. 

Renewable energy sources in the heating and cooling sector are lagging behind and cover only 23% of energy consumption. In order to ensure that EU buildings are ready to positively contribute towards a carbon neutral, resilient and cost-effective energy system, all clean heating technologies will be needed.

Hybrid heat pumps and boilers running on renewable fuels are affordable, mature, and scalable solutions that can as of now complement electrification and play a fundamental role in phasing out fossil gas by 2050 and achieving the EU’s climate objectives.

The upcoming interinstitutional negotiations within European Parliament and Council will be a precious opportunity to provide a level playing field for the further deployment of heating technologies running on renewable fuels.

Download EBA press statement

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Contact

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

Green Gas Mobility Summit is the reference event on sustainable transport in the Iberian Peninsula . Over two days, world-class experts will discuss the present and future of technological solutions already available to meet climate goals and improve air quality , such as  biomethane, synthetic gas, and hydrogen.

Why do you have to go to the Green Gas Mobility Summit?

Green Gas Mobility Summit is a meeting point for companies and administrations committed to the development of sustainable transport. During two days, the possibilities offered by already available technological solutions, such as biomethane, hydrogen and synthetic gas, will be analyzed to achieve climate objectives in a fair, profitable and competitive way.

What will you find at the Green Gas Mobility Summit?

Green Gas Mobility Summit has become an essential meeting for the sustainable transport sector in the Iberian Peninsula. It is a two-day face-to-face event, with an indoor and outdoor exhibition, which will feature high-level thematic sessions, presentations of projects and innovative solutions , as well as bringing together representatives of the main players in the sector for top-level networking.

Visit the event website for more information

EBA representative: Anna Venturini, EBA Policy Officer

4th week of October across Europe | 24-26 October: Flagship event in Brussels

A must event for producers, users, investors and legislators involved in the deployment of biogases across Europe.

• High-level European Biogas Conference with 500 participants and 40 speakers
• Expo area
• Networking opportunities
• Side-events

Discover all the events and actions of the European Biomethane Week

The 1st edition of the European Biomethane Week builds on the European Biogas Conference, the flagship event of the European Biogas Association. This new concept will count on the support of the Biomethane Industrial Partnership and the European Commission, and will showcase the development of biogases across Europe.

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Highlighted events in Brussels

• A 2-day high-level European Biogas Conference (24-25 October, The EGG Centre Brussels) with top-notch speakers to stir up stimulating discussions. Preliminary programme available here.

• The EBA Awards ceremony and gala dinner showcasing biogas frontrunners.

• Boots on the ground: a site visit (26 October) open to policy makers and other participants.

• Unmatched networking opportunities and side-events (including visit to the CoHop Brewery).

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Sponsors and Media partners

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Travel & accommodation to Brussels events: All participants are requested to book their own travel and accommodation. EBA has secured a number of rooms in three hotels near the venue (Ibis Brussels centre Gare du Midi, Park Inn Radisson Brussels Midi and Pullman Centre Brussels Midi). After the given deadline, room availability will not be guaranteed.

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Get social with us!

Get the latest updates and share your impressions about the European Biomethane Week using #EUBW and #EBAConference.

Due to the growing interest in biomethane in the world, also caused to a large extent by the current geopolitical situation and Russian aggression against Ukraine, biomethane is also becoming a hot topic in Poland. Especially recently, legislators seem to see its great potential. During the 6th Biomethane Congress, we will look at the biomethane sector and try to answer the question of whether a breakthrough awaits us.

The 6^th Biomethane Congress is an industry meeting for:

• investors planning to build a biomethane plant,
• owners of existing biogas plants,
• managers of treatment and municipal biogas plants,
• representatives of the energy, gas and transport industries,
• government administration and local governments
• technology and equipment suppliers
• Polish and European industry associations

Visit event website for more information

EBA representative at the 6th Biomethane Congress & Expo: Natalia Walczak, EBA Communications Officer

The European Biogas Association (EBA) represents the sustainable biogas and biomethane sector in Europe. EBA aims to ensure our sector grows to offer a concrete solution to decarbonize the European energy system in a smart and cost-efficient way. We are a growing association representing over 200 members including national associations, corporate members, and research institutes, spanning 34 countries. We are seeking to recruit a Policy Assistant to support our advocacy work and help push our decarbonatization and agroecological transition agenda in Brussels.

As part of EBA’s policy team you will work closely with the Secretary General and policy officers; you will participate to internal and external meetings and help to outreach to policy makers. We offer an energetic working environment within a multicultural team in Brussels. The position is great occasion for a motivated individual to start a career in renewable energy, developing knowledge on renewable gases, sustainability and public affairs. As our organization is growing, the internship might develop into a longer-term employment opportunity.

Responsibilities
You will support the work of the policy team, the organisation of working groups, task forces and the outreach efforts. Your main responsibilities will include:

• Contributing to the organization of Working Groups and task forces
• Monitor policy developments and activities relevant to EBA’s advocacy (energy, circular economy dossiers)
• Contribute to strategic discussions within Policy Team
• Support in policy analysis and drafting policy positions
• Drafting reports and/or briefs on policy developments

Profile
• Masters level education in Political Science, International Relations, European Affairs, Economics or Law
• Keen interest in renewable energy, climate mitigation and adaptation, and circular economy
• Dynamic, self-starter, organised, attentive to detail, eager to learn
• Ability to produce content tailored to different audiences (e.g. members, decision-makers)
• Excellent written and spoken English, other EU languages will be considered as an asset

We offer
• A 6-month CIP (Convention d’Immersion Professionelle)
• Public Transport allowance
• Hybrid work environment
• Mentorship and exposure to enriching debates, contact with stakeholders and policy makers

Application

Please send your CV (no Europass format) and cover letter (1 page) to advocacy@europeanbiogas.eu with the subject ‘YOUR NAME – EBA POLICY ASSISTANT by 17 March at the latest. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis. To determine your eligibility, in your email, please confirm that: you have not been employed on a ‘convention d’immersion professionnelle’ (CIP) contract in the past; you are not currently enrolled in a university and you are eligible to work in the EU.

This 7th edition of Biogas Italy will be a platform for discussing solutions to the climate crisis among experts from institutions, companies, organizations and associations. I believe that agriculture, linked to the production of biogas, which is a renewable and programmable source, can lead to the growth of new markets by creating new opportunities.

Renewable gas outlooks, biomethane markets and decarbonization of the transport sector, along with soil protection, smart agriculture, will be some of the topics that will be in-depth at the conference.

The main representatives of the political institutions, associations and the business community have been invited to participate in the conference.

Visit the event website for more information

EBA representative: Harmen Dekker, CEO of the European Biogas Association

Biomethane RNG Channel is glad to present the first edition of the Biomethane RNG Day – DÍA DEL BIOMETANO – which will explore the potential of biomethane in Spain.

The coming years will be important for the development of the Spanish biomethane sector. Spain has the fourth-highest biomethane potential in Europe, ready to be untapped. According to Enagás, approximately 30 new biomethane plants are under construction and even more projects are under development, with operations planned to start before 2025.

To go deeper into this rapidly growing market, the DÍA DEL BIOMETANO will host panels of experts that will talk about the European and Spanish scenarios, with benchmarks from other countries, case studies, anaerobic digestion and upgrading technologies presentations and insights about financing, guarantees of origin, gas grid and more.

Register here.

EBA representative: Marina Pasteris, EBA Technical and Project Officer – Regulación y perspectivas del mercado del biometano en Europa

Brussels, 15 February 2023 – On the 14^th of February, the European Commission published its proposal  to review Regulation EU 2019/1242 setting CO₂ emission performance standards for new heavy-duty vehicles, such as trucks and buses, in the EU. This piece of EU legislation is fundamental for the decarbonization of the heavy-duty segment and for supporting the development of all the technologies contributing to the shift towards zero- and low-emission mobility. EBA welcomes the increased ambitions of the proposal and calls on the European Parliament and Council to provide a level playing field for the deployment of all clean technologies.

As acknowledged by the European Commission[1], the decarbonization of the transport sector will have to rely on multiple and complementary solutions to reduce its GHG emissions while responding to all mission profiles. Sustainable and renewable fuels, such as biomethane, are part of the current alternatives to cut down emissions, given their readiness and compatibility with existing vehicles and refuelling infrastructure.

EBA prises the increased ambitions of the proposal, but regrets the choice of the Commission not to recognize the contribution of renewable fuels, including biomethane, to the decarbonization of the sector. The EU executive body has missed the opportunity to provide a strong positive signal to the biomethane value chain by setting stringent targets at tailpipe without providing a mechanism to factor in the contribution of renewable fuels in reducing overall CO₂ emissions across the vehicles lifecycle. Transport operators and vehicle manufacturers should be provided with a legislative framework that encourages them to consider cleaner fuel alternatives to fossil fuels immediately available today.

Biomethane can play an important role to de-risk the uncertainties linked to the development and uptake of other transport technologies. This renewable gas is essential to promote and preserve the EU strategic autonomy in the energy sector and its technological leadership, all activities creating sustainable jobs in Europe.

“While only accounting for 2% of the vehicles on the road in Europe[2], the heavy-duty sector alone generates around 6% of total GHG emissions in the EU: a major contribution to climate change. The use of biomethane for transport provides a sustainable and readily available and scalable alternative to fossil fuels, being a key player in the transition towards a climate-neutral economy.”, explains Giulia Cancian, Secretary General of the European Biogas Association.

As biomethane consists of the same molecule as natural gas, this renewable fuel can be directly used either in the form of Bio-CNG or Bio-LNG to serve as a transport fuel in gas vehicles and injected in the LNG and CNG refuelling infrastructure. This means that biomethane can concretely and immediately contribute to the decarbonization of the transport sector: first, the deployment of biomethane to replace fossil fuels does not require the investment in additional resources and time to develop new infrastructure. Moreover, recent studies show that Bio-CNG and Bio-LNG are the best performing fuels for decarbonising transport, outperforming even electric vehicles thanks to their potential to offer a negative carbon footprint when applying a “Well-to-Wheel” (WtW) methodology. Using a 40% bio-LNG mix with LNG will help reduce the CO₂ emissions from trucks by 55%, under the WtW perspective. When using 100% bio-LNG, the GHG emissions balance can even be negative.

The upcoming discussions within European Parliament and Council will be a precious opportunity to provide a level playing field for their further deployment of all technologies and renewable fuels. EBA counts on the co-legislators to pursue this agenda.

Contact: Angela Sainz – EBA Communications Manager, +32 483 07 10 46  sainz@europeanbiogas.eu

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[1] In the first Pillar of the Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy, the European Commission stated the need to boost the uptake of low- and zero-emission vehicles as well as renewable fuels for road transport. The Strategy also underlines the necessity to send a clear signal to fuel suppliers that sustainable renewable fuels must be deployed on a large scale without delay.

[2] ACEA (2022). Report – Vehicles in use, Europe 2022

Ecomondo Mexico is being developed as part of a series of IEG Group actions aimed at an internationalization strategy for its main brands, including ECOMONDO, and is organized through a joint venture with Hannover Fairs Mexico, the subsidiary of Deutsche Messe.

Now at its second edition, Ecomondo Mexico will take place in April 26-28, 2023, in Guadalajara city, Jalisco, Mexico. The fair will be together with Solar Storage + Mexico, a specialized exhibition and conference cover solar technology & energy.

The circular economy expo is a showcase of visibility and gateway to Latin American markets for the most advanced and sustainable technological solutions in the areas of proper urban and industrial waste management and recycling, circular bioeconomy, bioenergy, sustainable water management, remediation and hydrogeological risk, and energy efficiency.

Ecomondo Mexico can count on the support of MAECI, the Italian Embassy in Mexico, ICE Agency, AEMI Economic Association of Mexico in Italy, IILA Istituto Italo Latino Americano, the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Mexico City, and the Mexican federal government and the state of Jalisco.

Visit event website

Brussels 14/02/23 – A new report from the European Biogas Association shows that, in 2030, the whole system benefits of biomethane production in the EU27 + UK could range from 38-78€ billion per year, rising to 133-283€ billion by 2050. These figures are comparable to the GDPs of Luxembourg and Finland in 2021 respectively. Values represented are likely an underestimate, as not all externalities were quantified.

The study, “Beyond energy: monetising biomethane’s whole system benefits” shows that anaerobic digestion could deliver an additional benefit of 84-175 €/MWh of biomethane produced, while thermal gasification could deliver an additional 80-162 €/MWh. These benefits outweigh the current cost of producing biomethane through these technologies (55-100 €/MWh and 85-110 €/MWh for anaerobic digestion and thermal gasification respectively).

Currently, producers of biomethane are primarily rewarded for contributing to renewable energy targets via support or market-based mechanisms. The additional positive externalities that biomethane production delivers are not currently fully rewarded or recognised by society at large.

The study launched today, undertaken by Guidehouse, has quantified the value of these benefits for a selection of sustainable feedstocks relevant for anaerobic digestion and thermal gasification biomethane production technologies. The reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, such as the recovery of biogenic CO₂ during the production process, is a key value driver. Energy security, job creation and waste processing are also playing an increasingly significant role over the next few decades.

“This report sheds light on the added value of biomethane for our society, beyond renewable energy provision. The biomethane industry, policy makers and regulators need to work closely together to fully realise these benefits, prioritizing organic waste and residue feedstocks, incentivizing sustainable agricultural production and valorising biomethane co-products (digestate and biogenic CO₂).” Giulia Cancian, EBA Secretary General.

• Download press release
• Download “Beyond energy: monetising biomethane’s whole system benefits“
• Watch launch webinar

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Press contact

Angela Sainz – EBA Communications Manager, +32 483071046  sainz@europeanbiogas.eu

Biomethane is the cheapest and most scalable form of renewable gas available today. It
can directly substitute natural gas and is flexible as it can be readily stored and deployed
across the whole energy system, using existing gas infrastructure and end-use technologies
Moreover, biomethane is a dispatchable energy carrier and as such can be deployed to
balance intermittent renewable energy generation. It is well placed to deliver significant,
long-term economy-wide benefits beyond renewable energy provision, thereby supporting the
European Green Deal and the transition to a more sustainable and circular economy.

This study, undertaken by Guidehouse, has quantified the value of these benefits for a selection of sustainable feedstocks relevant for anaerobic digestion and thermal gasification biomethane production technologies. The reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, such as the recovery of biogenic CO₂ during the production process, is a key value driver. Energy security, job creation and waste processing are also playing an increasingly significant role over the next few decades.

• Download press release
• Watch launch webinar

Brussels 09/02/23 – Today, the European Parliament adopted its position on the Gas Decarbonisation Package. The European Biogas Association (EBA) welcomes the inclusion of 2030 mandatory biomethane target in the regulation.

“If EU institutions give green light to this proposal, the 35 bcm biomethane target would finally anchor in binding legislation the REPowerEU Plan’s ambition. Based on reasonable and solid estimation of sustainable feedstock availability, achieving 35 bcm of biomethane in the EU by 2030 would significantly contribute to security of supply by replacing 20% imported natural gas volumes from Russia before the Ukraine war.” Explains Giulia Cancian, Secretary General of the EBA.

The Package voted today takes stock of the Biomethane Action Plan and includes the requirement for Member States to set-up national biomethane strategies and to ensure regional mapping of highest production potential areas. This mapping exercise should inform the national strategies and the network planning carried out by the grid operators. National biomethane strategies shall provide a long-term perspective for the biomethane sector and guidance for investors.

The EBA also welcomes the adoption of EU-wide rules facilitating an accelerated, steep growth of biomethane integration in the gas network after 2025. Although essential for biomethane cost-effective delivery to consumers, access to the gas network currently represents a challenge for project developers. The European Parliament’s report improves the Commission’s proposal on the right to inject, by setting, among other provisions, time limits for delivering the network connection requested by project developers.

The EBA regrets, though, that an agreement was not found on provisions addressing the costs of network access for project developers. A cost-sharing principle with gas network operators would decrease the investment cost for biomethane producers. Regulatory authorities can be empowered to tailor this principle to national circumstances while monitoring its effectiveness and its limited impact on tariffs.

Download press release

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Contact

Angela Sainz – EBA Communications Manager, +32 483071046  sainz@europeanbiogas.eu

Anthony Lorin – EBA Policy Officer lorin@europeanbiogas.eu

5-8 June Conference and Exhibition, Bologna

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 2,000 experts from both academia and industry share and discuss groundbreaking ideas, technologies, applications, and solutions for the sourcing, production, and utility of biomass.

The scientific programme is coordinated by the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission.

Since its 30th edition, the event has been complemented by the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking efficacy at identifying innovation, stimulating investment, and mobilising the bio-based industry sector. This is an excellent opportunity to address even more stakeholders globally through the conference.

Visit the official website for more information

Further information:

• Email: biomass.conference@etaflorence.it
• Telephone: +39 0555002280

Vienna, 25th April 2023, 09:00 to 17:00

Due to the current limited availability of natural gas from Russia, biomethane has gained an increasing interest. With the proposition of the Fitfor55 followed by the REPowerEU programmes, the importance of biomethane jumped up high again in the agenda with the target to produce some 35bcm by 2030. However, there are still a few hurdles to overcome.

Experienced experts from production, market, policy and application will discuss the actual status, the potential and limits of biomethane production as well as the business opportunities.

Register here

Full programme available here

Biogas and biomethane are generated from different types of organic residues, turning waste into a valuable resource. A recent study shows that the increasing amount of compostable bioplastics in our waste can be collected and processed with no ecological risk to produce biogas, supporting the development of renewable energy in Europe.

EU countries are required to reuse and recycle at least 55% of their municipal waste by 2025, 60% by 2030 and 65% by 2035.[1] The biogas sector is already contributing to reach this target by producing renewable energy from collected local bio-waste. According to the EBA Statistical Report 2022, organic municipal solid waste is the second biggest source of biomethane production in Europe.

Biodegradable bioplastics could represent 8 – 10% of organic municipal solid waste in the coming years.[2] “The increasing use of bioplastics and their disposal within the organic fraction of municipal solid waste are a critical component for the future of waste management. To promote a circular economy, they need to be recovered to produce new materials and/or energy.”, explains Gabriella Papa, EBA Technical and Project Officer and co-author of this study.

The study “Anaerobic digestion of organic waste allows recovering energy and enhancing the subsequent bioplastic degradation in soil” illustrates that the processing of bioplastics through anaerobic digestion contributes to prevent bioplastics accumulation and reduce their leakage into the environment. According to the paper, the residual bioplastic remaining in the digestate, a co-product of biogas production used as organic fertiliser, does not accumulate in soils. The figures show that bioplastics degrade between 50% and 70% in the soil after 120 days, and are fully biodegradable within less than two years. This digestate can therefore be used as fertiliser in agricultural soils without ecological risks.

In addition, the degradation of bioplastics via anaerobic digestion also contributes to the energy recovery of waste by producing renewable energy for our households and industries.

Ultimately, this approach meets the EU’s objective to achieve a circular economy by 2050[3]. The treatment of bioplastics via anaerobic digestion to produce biogas can enable cities and regions to develop integrated circular city concepts and make optimal use of their resources.

“The insights gained from this study have a positive impact on organic municipal solid waste valorisation strategies. The processing of bioplastic waste in anaerobic digestion for biogas production appears a promising solution for both renewable energy production and reduction of bioplastic leakage.”, concludes Gabriella Papa.

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[1] https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/headlines/society/20180328STO00751/eu-waste-management-infographic-with-facts-and-figures

[2] The role of waste management in reducing bioplastics’ leakage into the environment: A review https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0960852421007999?via%3Dihub. Degradation of bioplastics in organic waste by mesophilic anaerobic digestion, composting and soil incubation https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0956053X21004414?via%3Dihub

[3] https://environment.ec.europa.eu/strategy/circular-economy-action-plan_en#:~:text=The%20EU’s%20transition%20to%20a,entire%20life%20cycle%20of%20products

The European Biogas Association will present the findings of the report “Beyond energy: monetising biomethane’s whole system benefits”, conducted by Guidehouse, on a dedicated webinar on Wednesday 14 February 2023, from 10:00 to 11:00 CET. The report quantifies the value of the positive externalities of biogas and biomethane production for a selection of sustainable feedstocks.

The outputs of this study will serve as a solid basis for European policy makers to recognise these externalities in future climate, energy and waste policy, and for society as a whole to understand the benefits biomethane can bring to the future European energy system.

Register to the webinar here.

AGENDA:

• 10:00 Welcome and introduction – Giulia Cancian, EBA Secretary General
• 10:10 Beyond energy – monetising biomethane’s whole-system benefits – Sacha Alberici, Associate Director for Energy, Sustainability and Infrastructure at Guidehouse
• 10:25 Q&A
• 10:30 Fireside talks moderated by Giulia Cancian – leveraging biomethane’s potential in a net-zero economy:
• Mieke Decorte, Technical and Project Manager of the EBA
• Nick Primmer, Policy Advisor at Future Biogas
• Marta Kamola-Martines, Head of Biogas, Corporate Strategy at ENGIE
• 10:45 Q&A
• 10:55 Wrap up by the moderator

After last year successful edition, with 150+ biogas professionals and 20+ excellent speakers, we have an honour to invite you to 5th European Conference Biogas PowerON taking place on 27-28 September 2023. This year we are moving to Hamburg, Germany.

Main topic & key points

• Overview of European and national policies and regulations
• Future of biogas industry from the perspective of a producer – case studies
• Cost competitiveness of biomethane
• Sustainability and green origin of biomethane
• Building a successful biogas system in Europe – what is necessary?
• Role of gas infrastructure in decarbonising European energy sector
• Energy crisis and ban on Russian gas supply – perspectives for biogas sector
• Biogas economics and trading
• Hydrothermal gasification and 2G biomethane production: status on technologies
And many more…

More information here.

2022 has been a year full of developments for the biogas and biomethane industry. Last year, the European Biogas Association (EBA) continued to emphasize that biogas and biomethane can represent a stable and sustainable source of locally produced energy. These advantages were echoed by the European Commission in the REPowerEU plan, which, for the first time, included the European goal of achieving a biomethane production of 35 bcm by 2030.

Throughout the year, the EBA also released 21 internal and external publications and 17 policy documents of various types, joined six EU research projects and presented EBA positions at 70 external events. Internally, the EBA presented a new working group structure, celebrated the election of a new EBA Board, welcomed 60 new members and saw the Secretariat grow to 16 staff members.

Read our report to get an overview of EBA activities in 2022:

• Foreword
• 2022 at a glance
• Monitoring the expansion of the sector
• Our key political stands in 2022
• Driving innovation
• Outreach 2022
• EBA people
• EBA community
• Why should you also join us?

The Nutri2Cycle consortium is delighted to invite you to its webinar on ‘Best practices and barriers in nutrient efficient agriculture in Hungary, Croatia and Poland’, which will take place on Friday 3 February 2023 from 14:00 to 16:30 CET.

Tackling first the state-of-the-art in the implementation of bio-based circular fertilisers in Europe and the legal issues to achieve an efficient circular economy in Europe, the webinar will address the status of energy and fertilisers market in Hungary and Poland, providing an insight on its perspective in the next future.

Best practices and possible barriers towards the transition to nutrient efficient agriculture will be discussed with specific reference to Poland, Croatia and Hungary. Project partners will give an overview of the selected Nutri2Cycle lighthouse demos implemented in some of these countries to assess their technical feasibility and their transferability in other EU regions.

Join this webinar to discuss with us the future perspectives of a nutrient efficient agriculture!

More details on the programme can be found here.

Biomethane as a transport fuel provides a sustainable and readily available alternative for conventional transport fuels. A recent paper shows that by 2050 liquified biomethane (bio-LNG) can reduce GHG emissions in the transport sector by 95% to 174%. This scenario is particularly encouraging for the maritime sector as it meets the target of 75% GHG emissions reduction by 2050 set in EU legislation [1].

According to the European Environmental Agency, transport is responsible for 27% of Europe’s total GHG emissions and is a major contributor to climate change. The European Commission has recently set a target to increase the share of renewable energy in transport to at least 14% by 2030, including a minimum share of 3.5% of advanced biofuels.[2] One of the options for the fast decarbonisation of the transport sector is to use bio-LNG, produced from organic residues and resulting from the purification of biogas. This renewable fuel is readily available for use at scale and with infrastructure in place.

The paper authored by Floris Goedhart “Sustainable mobility in Europe: Potential market share for bio-LNG in the heavy-duty transport and maritime sectors in 2050” also illustrates that the share of bio-LNG in heavy-duty vehicles and maritime transport in 2050 are equally promising. His research shows that by 2050 the bio-LNG production could amount to 46 – 405 TWh, representing between 1.7% (lowest scenario) and 18.7% (highest scenario) of European transport energy consumption. The market share of bio-LNG could be at least 57% in the heavy-duty vehicles sector or 17% in the maritime sector.

“For transport decarbonisation to speed up, all sustainable renewable fuels are necessary. Bio-LNG is the most readily available solution to decarbonise transport in Europe, especially heavy-duty and maritime sectors. Unlike other renewable alternatives, it can benefit from the existing LNG infrastructure.”, explains Floris Goedhart.

The transition to decarbonisation has already started. Europe has been experiencing a development of bio-LNG plants in the past years. According to the EBA Statistical Report 2022, there were 15 active bio-LNG producing plants in Europe by the end of 2021. This number is expected to increase sharply with 100 new bio-LNG projects confirmed by 2025, representing a total production capacity of 12.4 TWh per year.[3]  

“In Europe, hard-to-decarbonise sectors, such as the heavy-duty vehicle and the maritime sectors, release a substantial amount of the total GHG emissions of European transport. These emissions need to be reduced quickly and bio-LNG has potential to do this. The results of this study can hopefully contribute to securing long-term implementation of bio-LNG in the European transport sector.”, concludes Floris Goedhart.

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About the author: Floris Goedhart joined the EBA Secretariat in July 2022 for a six-months internship as part of his European Master of Science in Renewable Energy. His work focussed on the potential of bio-LNG to decarbonise the transport sector and support Europe’s renewable journey.

[1] On 14 July 2021, the European Commission presented the FuelEU Maritime proposal introducing a target of 75% of GHG emissions reductions from the maritime sector from 1 January 2050 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/RegData/docs_autres_institutions/commission_europeenne/com/2021/0562/COM_COM(2021)0562_EN.pdf

[2] https://energy.ec.europa.eu/topics/renewable-energy/bioenergy/biofuels_en

[3] EBA Statistical Report 2022: https://www.europeanbiogas.eu/new-edition-of-eba-statistical-report-shows-sharp-20-increase-in-european-biomethane-production-in-2021/

Brussels 07/12/22 – “The 2022 edition of the EBA Statistical Report published today shows that the biogas and biomethane sector is already providing 18.4 bcm of renewable gas to Europe. In the mid-term, our sector is a key pillar of the REPowerEU strategy, including the deployment of 35 bcm of sustainable biomethane a year by 2030 to mitigate climate change and strengthen the EU’s strategic autonomy. By 2050, it could provide up to 167 bcm and cover 62% of the gas demand[1].” Explains Harmen Dekker, CEO of the EBA.

The demand for biomethane for all final uses is strong: last year, the growth of the sector was unprecedented, with a 20% increase in biomethane production and a total of 3.5 bcm produced in 2021. An even greater expansion is expected in 2022, as a record number of new biomethane plants (184) started production last year and will become operational within 2022.

The deployment of renewable gases entails a substantial contribution to climate targets, but also to the EU’s independence from natural gas imports. 82% of the natural gas consumed in 2021 came from external supplies (338 bcm), with 15 Member States importing over 90% of their gas. Russia was the main source of supply and represented 33% (137 bcm) of the EU’s natural gas consumption in 2021.

The need for higher energy independence is combined with falling biomethane production costs, which are already significantly below the expected average TTF gas price[2] for 2022 (80 €/MWh as opposed to 134 €/MWh). It is thus clear that speeding up biomethane production and accelerating the clean energy transition are of high importance to stabilize gas prices and ensure energy security.

The deployment of biomethane can also increase the availability and affordability of organic fertilisers for food production^[3]. Natural gas is at the moment the main feedstock and energy source to produce synthetic fertilisers. According to the EBA Statistical Report 2022, Europe could already save today 0.6 bcm of natural gas consumption by replacing 5 – 6% of synthetic nitrogen fertilisers with digestate. This could have already avoided 1,096 ton CO2 equivalent in 2021, as the production of mineral fertilisers is highly energy-intensive.

The overall expansion of the sector will also boost the deployment of a resilient European bioeconomy. The biogas industry in EU-27 had a turnover of € 5.75 billion in 2020, relatively higher to the hydropower industry (€ 4.65 billion).

More information:

• Go to interactive version
• Download Excerpt with Content Summary
• Watch webinar
• Download Press Release

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Contact: Angela Sainz – EBA Communications Manager, +32 483071046  sainz@europeanbiogas.eu

[1] Assuming a reduced gas demand of 271 bcm.

[2] TTF has become one of the favoured pricing reference for natural gas trading.

[3] The production of biogas and biomethane generates digestate as a co-product, which is an organic fertiliser.

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

The 12th edition includes a specific chapter dedicated to digestate use, brand-new country
profiles, fresh analysis on the evolution of Europe’s energy mix, as well as updates on the
sector’s production costs and contribution to green jobs, among other relevant highlights.

You can download here an excerpt of the publication. The full report is free for EBA members and is available for purchase to external organisations. Please contact Vinciane Perot for further inquiries at: perot@europeanbiogas.eu

Discover the short interactive version here.

Find out more with the EBA Technical and Project Manager Marina Pasteris and the EBA Secretary General Giulia Cancian.

Since the REGATRACE EU-funded project started in June 2019, it has contributed to create an efficient trade system based on issuing and trading renewable gases Guarantees of Origin, including biomethane. The founding pillars of the project were:

• European biomethane/renewable gases certificate/GO system
• Establishment of national certificate/GO issuing bodies
• Integration of GOs from different renewable gas technologies with electric and hydrogen GO systems
• Integrated assessment and sustainable feedstock mobilisation strategies and technological synergies
• Support for biomethane market uptake
• Transferability of results beyond the project’s countries

The final booklet of the project provides a summary of REGATRACE main achievements and recommendations.
The publication is available in English and in 9 other languages: Czech, Dutch, Estonian, French, German, Italian, Lithuanian, Polish, and Spanish (accessible for download on REGATRACE website).

Brussels 21 November 2022 – The Final Conference of the EU-funded project REGATRACE was held last week with great success. Over 100 participants and 20 speakers gathered in Brussels on 16 November 2022 to discuss the latest developments to boost biomethane trading across Europe. Cross-border trading of biomethane will be essential to ensure the EU can deliver 35 bcm of biomethane by 2030.

The scale-up of biomethane production to 35 bcm by 2030 proposed by the REPowerEU will support the European Union in the achievement of climate goals and energy security alike. Cross-border trading of biomethane and other renewable gases will underpin the decarbonisation of the gas sector in the path towards a climate-neutral Europe. In May 2022, REGATRACE was considered, within the REPowerEU Plan, one of the reference projects on innovative solutions and research on barriers to and integration of sustainable biomethane to the gas grid.

Regulatory, technical and economic barriers today prevent or hinder the emergence of a biomethane market in many EU countries. The conference tackled the importance to recognise the green value of biomethane in all countries to facilitate biomethane trade across national borders. The ERGaR Certificates of Origin (CoO) Scheme and the AIB EECS Gas Scheme provide the technical requirements for cross-border transfers of biomethane. The ERGaR CoO Scheme has been facilitating the cross-border trade of biomethane since 2021 and is operated by the European Renewable Gas Registry. Between end-2021 and mid-2022, the amount of biomethane transferred via the ERGaR CoO Scheme increased from 30 GWh to 159 GWh.

Since the REGATRACE project started in June 2019, it has contributed to create an efficient trade system based on issuing and trading renewable gases Guarantees of Origin, including biomethane. This is essential to provide certainty and information on where, when and how the renewable gas is produced, renewable gas certificates give confidence in the green gas sector, encourage gas producers to inject green gas into the grid, and allow for biomethane producers to sell the gas to all EU member states.

“REGATRACE has paved the way for integrated solutions towards a common European market for biomethane and other renewable gases. National and EU policymakers must engage in an open dialogue with the biomethane industry to set-up one central registry that operates as a trustworthy platform for renewable gas certificates”, states Stefano Proietti, Project Coordinator of REGATRACE.

For more information, download the REGATRACE Final Booklet in English (soon available in 9 languages).

Download REGATRACE press release

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Contacts

Project Coordinator: Stefano Proietti (ISINNOVA) sproietti@isinnova.org

Project Communication Officer: Fanny Lamon (EBA) lamon@europeanbiogas.eu

About REGATRACE

REGATRACE (REnewable GAs TRAde Centre in Europe) aims to create an efficient trade system based on issuing and trading biomethane/renewable gases certificates/Guarantees of Origin (GO) in Target and Supported countries

Project consortium

Istituto di Studi per l’Integrazione dei Sistemi ISINNOVA (IT); European Biogas Association – EBA (BE); AGCS Gas Clearing and Settlement AG (AT); CIB-Consorzio italiano Biogas e Gassificazione – CIB (IT); Deutsche Energie – Agentur Gmbh – DENA (GER); Romanian Association of Biomass and Biogas – ARBIO (RO); Renewable Gas Forum – Irish Green Gas Company LBG- RFGI (IRL); Fluxys Belgium SA – FLUXYS (BE); DBFZ Deutsches Biomasseforschungszentrum Gemeinntzige Gmbh – DBFZ (GER); Association of Issuing Bodies Aisbl – AIB (BE) ; AB Amber Grid – AMBER GRID (LT) ; Nedgia SA – NEDGIA (SP) ; European Renewable Gas Registry – ERGaR (BE) ; Elering AS – ELERING (EE); Unia Productentow I Pracodawcow Przemyslu Biogazowego – UPEBI (PL); Czech Biogas Association (CZ).

The European Biogas Association (EBA) is the voice of renewable gas in Europe and is committed to the expansion of sustainable biogas and biomethane production and use throughout the continent.

As part of our continuous growth, we are seeking to employ an enthusiastic and motivated Events Officer with 3-5 year experience in the organisation of events to support the ongoing and future external and internal outreach activities of the organization.

Tasks & Responsibilities

The candidate will support the work of the communications team (3 people + candidate) and will be responsible for the overall organisation and coordination of EBA events and conferences, including event planning and staff supervision, internal reporting, development of appropriate organisational tools and building of good practices for the organisation of all EBA events.

He/she will bring fresh ideas to the table for the organisation thought-provoking events which contribute to the development of the biogas and biomethane industries. The candidate will also coordinate dissemination and communication activities in the framework of several EU projects.

His/her main responsibilities will be:

• Coordinating the European Biogas Conference, EBA’s flagship annual event, including supervision of budget, contact with speakers and participants, sponsorships, event promotion, logistics, conference programme and networking opportunities, organisation of EBA Awards and Gala Dinner (+350 attendees for 2022 edition).
• Organising other EBA impactful workshops and events (50-100 people).
• Performing communication and dissemination tasks for EU projects (Horizon Europe).

Essential Skills & Qualities

• Degree in Marketing Communications or Events Management.
• A minimum of 3-5 years’ experience in events organisation, including at least one big conference at European level (over 300 participants).
• Highly organised individual with proven track record in planning and executing events, as well as in coordinating teams;
• Experience in organising online and hybrid events is an asset;
• Knowledge of event management platforms will be considered as a plus;
• Excellent command of English, at least a passive knowledge of French, any other European language an asset;
• IT-savvy with knowledge of CMS and marketing software (Canva, InDesign, Mailing tools) highly desired;
• A dynamic, flexible, detail-oriented person with a flair for teamwork;
• Proactive, self-starter and good communicator;
• Ability to prioritise and work in a fast-paced environment;
• Eligibility to work in Europe.

What would be considered a plus?

• Knowledge of the renewable energy sector and European institutions;
• Proven professional experience in a membership association;
• Experience carrying out communication tasks in EU projects.

We provide…

• A stimulating and dynamic international environment in a diverse and fast-growing team;
• Access to EBA’s network of EU stakeholders and members;
• A position within the renewable energy sector to impact the shift towards a cleaner world and higher EU energy independence;
• A remuneration package suited to your experience;
• Hybrid working environment (2 days per week working from home office).

How to apply?

Please send your CV (no Europass format) and cover letter (max. 2 pages) to Angela Sainz (sainz@europeanbiogas.eu) with the subject ‘YOUR NAME – EBA Events Officer’ by 30 November at the latest. Interviews will take place on a rolling basis. Please consider that only the selected CVs will be notified for further process and interview.

Brussels, 20 October 2022 – On the 19^th of October, the European Parliament adopted in Plenary sitting the TRAN Reports on the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation and the FuelEU Maritime Regulation, two fundamental pieces of EU legislation aiming at the decarbonization of the transport sector. EBA praises the European Parliament for recognizing biomethane as a renewable fuel and its potential to blend with and replace fossil transport fuels like LNG in both the AFIR and FuelEU Maritime Reports.

EBA applauds the increased ambitions of FuelEU Maritime, which raised the GHG intensity cap for ship energy usage. The European Parliament, however, passed up a chance to strengthen the Commission proposal on advanced biofuels, while betting on renewable fuels of non-biological origin.

Moreover, EBA commends the European Parliament for mandating Member States to complete the LNG refuelling infrastructure in the AFIR Report. Still, the European Parliament missed the opportunity to give a strong positive signal to the biomethane value chain by setting maximum distance-based targets also for the biomethane compatible refuelling infrastructure.

“According to the European Environmental Agency, transport is responsible for 27% of Europe’s total GHG emissions and is a major contributor to climate change. The use of biomethane as a transport fuel provides for a sustainable and readily available alternative to conventionnel transport fuels, being a key player in the transition towards a climate neutral economy.”, explains Giulia Cancian, Secretary General of the European Biogas Association.

“As biomethane consists of the same molecule as natural gas, this renewable fuel can be directly used either in the form of Bio-CNG or Bio-LNG to serve as a transport fuel in LNG vessels and injected in the LNG refuelling infrastructure. This means that biomethane can contribute concretely and immediately to the decarbonization of the transport sector: first of all, the deployment of biomethane to replace fossil fuels does not require the investment in additional resources and time to develop new infrastructure. Moreover, recent studies show that Bio-CNG and Bio-LNG are the best performing fuels for decarbonising transport, outperforming even electric vehicles thanks to their potential to offer a negative carbon footprint when applying a “Well-to-Wheel” methodology. With a typically sourced bio-LNG drop-in fuel, a blend of 20% bio-LNG can reduce GHG emissions from a vessel running on LNG by up to 18% on a tank-to-wake basis; for 100% bio-LNG the reduction is of the order of 93% in the combustion cycle, with even further reductions possible on a well-to-wake basis. This is particularly interesting knowing that the biomethane compatible fleet – both in the maritime and road heavy-duty segments – is rapidly growing.” Concludes the EBA Secretary General.

The upcoming interinstitutional negotiations within European Parliament and Council will be a precious opportunity to augment the files’ ambition on advanced biofuels and fast track transport decarbonisation. EBA counts on the co-legislators to pursue this agenda.

Download press release

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Contact

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

The European Biogas Association (EBA) is looking for an experienced Policy Officer on a full-time basis covering Circular Economy.

The European Biogas Association (EBA) is a non-profit organisation promoting the deployment of renewable energy and gas from anaerobic digestion, biomass gasification and power-to-methane. We cover the full value chain from production to end use of sustainable biogas / biomethane in Europe. The association has been expanding and currently gathers 43 national associations and more than 200 members in Europe and beyond. EBA is a key player in renewable energy sector, organic fertilizers and biogenic CO2 market development, and reliable partner for research and EU projects.

Tasks & Responsibilities

• Implementation of the EBA policy and advocacy strategies.
• Political analysis and preparation of draft positions, advocacy plans and presentations.
• Liaison with policymakers, relevant EU stakeholders and EBA members.
• Representation of the EBA towards EU institutions, trade organisations, civil society organisations and think tanks.
• Coordination of EBA’s working group Circular Economy.
• Responding to EBA’s Secretary General.
• Support to communication and technical departments with relevant policy expertise.
• Development of policy tasks as part of EBA’s involvement in EU projects.

Essential Skills & Qualities

• 3–5-years’ experience in EU Affairs.
• In-depth knowledge of the EU decision making process.
• Understanding of EU environmental challenges and familiarity with at least one of the following policies: Circular Economy/ Waste legislation/ Fertilizers legislation/ Agriculture.  
• Analytical skills and strategic thinking to formulate evidence-based policy content.
• Excellent interpersonal and networking skills to establish useful contacts and coordinate multi-stakeholder alliances.
• Proactiveness and problem-solving attitude.
• Passionate about the environment and the energy transition.
• Perfect command of English and at least one other European language. German is a plus.
• Master’s Degree in Political Science, Law, Economics, EU Affairs, International Relations, or other Degrees relevant to this position (Environmental Sciences, Agronomy)
• Previous experience in EU institutions and/or European Trade Associations, will be considered preferential.

We offer

The position provides the opportunity to work within an exciting and growing industry playing a key role in the energy transition and fostering agroecological transition and development. You will profit from collaborations with key stakeholders involved in the sector, high-level European experts, and policymakers.

The EBA offers an exciting position within a growing and dedicated team all set in a dynamic and international environment. The renumeration package will be suited to the candidate experience.

The position is based in the Renewable Energy House, rue d’Arlon 63-67 in Brussels.

How to apply?

Please send your CV (no Europass format) and cover letter (max. 1 page) to Vinciane Perot (perot@europeanbiogas.eu) and Giulia Cancian (cancian@europeanbiogas.eu) by 20 November with the subject ‘YOUR NAME – EBA Policy Officer’. Applications will be processed on a rolling basis.

Candidates should have a valid permit to work in Belgium.

Brussels, 18 October 2022 – Ten organisations have today released a 10-point plan for a successful heating and cooling transition to tackle the current energy crisis. Among key actions, signatories call for the revision of the EU’s outdated heating and cooling strategy, the implementation of mandatory heat planning and a ban on using individual, fossil-only boilers in buildings.

The current energy crisis is a heating crisis. Half of the European energy consumption goes to heating and cooling, and 42% of this demand is supplied by natural gas. Buildings are the largest consumers of natural gas, most of which is used for space and water heating.

Six months after the publication of the REPowerEU plan, signatories deplore the EU’s lack of focus on deploying renewable and clean heating and cooling technologies which can significantly contribute to reducing the use of natural gas in buildings and put Europe on the path to climate neutrality and energy independence.

The 10-point plan covers a range of measures, some of which may be integrated into the next batch of EU emergency measures. These include implementing mandatory heat planning for all cities or the EU-wide phase-out of individual boilers that use only fossil fuels.

The 10-point plan also underlines the necessity of upgrading the EU’s outdated heating and cooling strategy with concrete regulatory and financial instruments which will support the deployment of renewable heat solutions. These include solar heat and sustainable waste heat, as well as the roll-out of efficient heating technologies – for example, residential and large-scale heat pumps connected with district heating networks.

The latest European heating and cooling strategy was published in 2016, even before the EU committed to achieving climate neutrality before 2050, and is no longer fit for purpose.

Aurélie Beauvais, Managing Director of Euroheat & Power, commented: “Efficient District Heating and Cooling is a proven solution to phase-out fossil fuel in buildings and shield consumers from soaring energy prices. Six months after the launch of the REPower EU, we must upgrade our emergency toolbox with concrete measures which accelerate the roll-out of clean heating technologies in buildings. Mandatory heat planning, in particular, should be urgently introduced”.

Stephan Brandligt, Vice President of Energy Cities, Former Deputy Mayor of Delft (The Netherlands): “This energy crisis must be a wake-up call for an urgent and thorough transition to make our current heating and cooling systems renewable and resilient. As experimented in the Netherlands, the local approach is the key to such a transition, provided local governments are supported with adequate human, financial and technical resources”.

Thomas Nowak, Secretary-General, European Heat Pump Association: “Turning on the heating shouldn’t be a nightmare for people’s wallets or for the planet. EU governments need to help all of us move towards renewable energy-based heating for good. They must support people and businesses as they renovate buildings and invest in heat pumps, and ensure the supply chain, staff, and local strategies are up to scratch. This will help everyone have access to clean, affordable heating”.

Pedro Dias, Secretary General, Solar Heat Europe: ”Heat is half of the EU energy consumption and the main use of Russian gas. Therefore, policymakers must focus on the fast deployment of existing renewable heat technologies to solve the problems of energy security and affordability while contributing to decarbonisation. Solar heat offers a quick-to-deploy EU-made renewable solution that is non-dependent on critical minerals and creates jobs based in Europe’’.

Hans Korteweg, Managing Director, COGEN Europe: “Decarbonisation of heating is essential for achieving the EU’s energy and climate ambitions. This will require measures to prevent heat loss, boost the uptake of renewables and prioritise the efficient production of both heat and power via cogeneration. Wasting valuable energy must not be an option anymore!”

Jean-Marc Jossart, Secretary General, BIOenergy Europe: “We want to deliver on the Fit-for-55 package’s objectives, and it is essential to act now and put the H&C sector at the centre of EU political debate. To reach climate neutrality by 2050, concrete actions must be implemented, such as retrofitting old heating installations with modern renewable ones. This can significantly increase energy efficiency, reduce emissions and address air pollution. With the current crisis, we need affordable, local and renewable heat sources such as bioenergy and a comprehensive approach in our decarbonisation strategies”.

Giulia Laura Cancian, Secretary General, European Biogas Association: “Renewable gases such as sustainable biogas and biomethane help buildings heating systems decarbonise efficiently and flexibly. Their utilization in hybrid heat pumps, efficient boilers, district heating or off-grids systems substitutes fossil fuels and delivers substantial GHG emissions savings. The EU must accelerate the rollout of these solutions to achieve a resilient and climate-neutral energy system”.

Download full document A 10 – point action plan

Download press release

Everything you need to know about biogas and its potential

For the European gas sector there is only one future and it is called decarbonisation. The most straightforward way to decarbonise natural gas streams is by replacing it with different types of “renewable” gas, such as biogas or biomethane. This Intensive Course is in cooperation with the European Biogas Association and Enterprise Europe Network, and takes place at Agromek; Northern Europe’s Largest Agricultural Fair in Denmark.

During this intensive course the biogas value chain, its aspects, future and best practices from frontrunner Denmark and different European legislative opportunities will be discussed. The site visit to Agromek; the Northern Europe’s Largest Agricultural Fair in Denmark is included.

How you benefit

• Get an overview of the complete biogas value chain
• Identify new opportunities in biogas
• Network with experts and peers
• Free Access to Agromek 2022
• Site visit to the Nature Energy Månsson plant in Aarhus

This programme is in cooperation with the European Biogas Association. Members of the EBA can get a 15% discount upon joining.

Check New Energy Business School website for more details.

This joint publication with Liquid Gas Europe outlines renewable gas options, such as BioLPG, Biogas, BioLNG and rDME, suitable for rural buildings which could facilitate rapid progress towards greenhouse gas emission reductions in Europe.

The EU has a target of a 55% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and a net zero ambition by 2050. It is critical that the legislative frameworks and associated policies enable a Just Energy Transition where no one is left behind. Solutions that are available, easily deployable, cost effective and socially acceptable will be needed to achieve ambitious climate targets, and in view of rising energy security concerns it is equally important to consider solutions that ensure supply security and energy system resilience. The role of off-grid renewable gases is critical in this respect as they can facilitate the sustainability journey of communities in rural areas that often do not have the luxury to choose from many sustainable alternatives that are cost effective as well as lower carbon.

Executive summary accessible here.

This white paper explores the climate impact of biogenic CO2 use or storage, the main utilisation avenues and perspective markets opportunities. While detailing current CO2 requirements, the paper underlines current obstacles to and opportunities for the further take-up of Bio-Carbon Capture and Storage (BIO-CCS) and Bio-Carbon Capture and Utilization (Bio-CCU) solutions, summarises best cases, and concludes with a set of policy recommendations to define a suitable legislative framework for the further deployment of Bio-Carbon Capture Use and Storage (Bio-CCUS) solutions, necessary to meeting Europe’s mid-century climate neutrality target.

1 tone of biomethane can approximately produce 2 tons of biogenic CO2, making the potential of the sector to carbon capture, storage and utilization non-negligible. In 2020, Europe could have produced 24Mton of biogenic CO2, based on the volumes of biogas and biomethane produced that year (18 bcm). By 2030, we could generate 46Mton of biogenic CO2, by producing 35 bcm of biogas and biomethane.

CO2 is one of the most useful industrial gases we have and the disruption in the CO2 supply chain is starting to hit many industries across Europe. Over the past weeks, prices have skyrocketed due to CO2 supply shortages. While displacing fossil fuel utilisation, the production of biomethane can increase CO2 supplies in Europe and alleviate the pressure on these industries and, ultimately, on final consumers.

Far from producing only renewable energy, biomethane production facilities are circular economy hubs, turning organic materials from different streams into several products: a renewable energy carrier, organic fertilisers (digestate) and industrial gas (biogenic CO2). Consequently, the regulatory framework should ensure that the capture, use and storage of biogenic CO2 from the biogas sector are rewarded for their environmental benefits. Policymakers should set drivers to facilitate the uptake of biogenic CO2 and derived products. The biogenic CO2 value chain should also be recognised in the EU sustainable finance framework. 

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The findings presented in  the white paper are the output of the work carried out by the EBA Working Group on Biogenic CO2. 

Contact: Anthony Lorin, alorin@europeanbiogas.eu

The REGATRACE Conference will take place on 16 November 2022 at Thon Hotel EU in Brussels.

Why should you attend this conference?

The scale-up of biomethane production by 2030 proposed by the REPowerEU will support the European Union in the achievement of climate goals and energy security alike. However, to release the European potential of biomethane it is vital that it can be traded across national borders.

The REGATRACE project (started in June 2019) aims to create an efficient trade system based on issuing and trading renewable gases Guarantees of Origin (GoO), including biomethane. This will strongly contribute to the uptake of the European common biomethane market. To achieve this, project’s partners have been working to set up a European biomethane/renewable gases GoO system and national GoO issuing bodies. They also have been working to integrate GoO from different renewable gas technologies with electric and hydrogen GoO systems, through integrated assessment and sustainable feedstock mobilisation strategies and support for biomethane market uptake.

REGATRACE is a valuable project to address bottlenecks, such as cross border trading, for biomethane project scale up. The development of a European renewable gas market is essential to ensure that increasing shares of renewable gases are injected into our gas grids. This will support the decarbonisation of the gas sector in the path towards a climate-neutral Europe.

Key topics for discussion

• Implementation of gas GOs and renewable gas registries during the REGATRACE project
• State of the art of systems for documenting cross-border biomethane transfer
• Developments for documenting cross-border transfer of renewable gas
• Policy recommendations for the uptake of biomethane production and cross-border trade
• Results and impacts of the REGATRACE project on the biomethane industry

Visit REGATRACE website for more details about the project.

Join us for the BIP Technical Launch taking place during the EBA Conference on October 25th! The technical launch of the BIP is a follow up of the official kick-off by Executive Vice-President of the European Commission, Frans Timmermans, and the Commissioner for Energy, Kadri Simson, during the European Sustainable Energy Week last September.

It is organised as a side event of the European Biogas Conference 2022 will bring together high-level stakeholders from the renewable gas industry,  influential policy-makers for our sector in Europe and representatives from key areas for the development of our industry. The conference will put particular emphasis on showcasing the scalability of biogas and biomethane.

The Biomethane Industrial Partnership (BIP) is a new public-private partnership aimed at supporting the achievement of the target to increase annual production and use of biomethane to 35 billion cubic metres by 2030. This will reduce Europe’s dependency on natural gas from Russia in a cost-effective way. At the same time, it will substantially contribute to an integrated net-zero energy system, diversifying farmer’s incomes and ensuring a circular approach.

The Biomethane Industrial Partnership is open to all interested stakeholders that wish to work towards achieving its objective. All EU Member States are invited to join the Biomethane Industrial Partnership, together with companies, industry associations, academia and civil society organisations.

In recent months, Irish Government policy has referenced the potential of AD biomethane,  for the hard to decarbonise sectors of agriculture, manufacturing & processing, as an enabler of emissions reduction, competitiveness and energy security.  The Ireland Biomethane Conference, to take place in November 2022, will therefore provide timely information to delegates on the latest policy developments underpinning an indigenous biomethane industry in Ireland and across the EU.

Speakers will be drawn from the EU Commission, Irish Government and State Agencies, as well as other EU member states who are leading in AD Biomethane.

“With our grass-based agriculture, Ireland has the highest potential for biomethane production per capita in the EU according to the European Commission, providing a strong opportunity to develop a thriving indigenous biomethane industry, support energy security and, importantly for Irish farmers, reduce agricultural emissions.  

RGFI has collaborated extensively with producers, farmers, consumers and relevant Irish Government Departments as well as the EU Commission to develop an agreed vision and roadmap for AD biomethane in Ireland.  We are now on the cusp of the development of this sector in Ireland and our vision is that  farmers and the food industry be central to  the production of sustainable biomethane, bio-fertiliser and carbon farming.”, JP Prendergast, Chairman of RGFI.

A Conference Dinner on 9^th November will be addressed by US Senator Marc Pacheco, who was responsible for the Global Warmings Solutions Act. Senator Pacheco (who has strong Irish connections) is currently serving as the Dean of the Massachusetts Senate and is the founding chair of the standing Senate Committee on global warming and climate change.

Check back here soon for further information on speakers and programme information.

For sponsorship enquiries, please contact: biomethaneconf22@renewablegasforum.com

Register here

For accommodation, please contact the Clontarf Castle Hotel and quote the RGFI Conference.

The BIOGAS Convention Digital from 7 – 11 November 2022 is an indispensable forum for exchange within the industry. The role of biogas in the current difficult energy situation and the challenges arising from it will be the focus in 2022. In the English part (8 – 10 November 2022) you will find lectures with the following topics: EU policy, worldwide projects (e.g. France, Italy, El Salvador, Mexico), best-practice, German technology, biomethane, digestate upgrading and marketing. Over 40 speakers will share their knowledge and discuss the challenges ahead with you (in German or English).

You can find the current programme and register here: www.biogas-convention.com (Early booking discount until 14 October 2022).

The European Commission and industry leaders, committed to the green energy transition, have launched today the Biomethane Industrial Partnership (BIP). This new public-private partnership  was announced in the REPowerEU Plan. It aims to support the achievement of the target to increase annual production and use of biomethane to 35 billion cubic metres by 2030. This will reduce Europe’s dependency on natural gas from Russia in a cost-effective way. At the same time, it will substantially contribute to an integrated net-zero energy system, diversifying farmer’s incomes and ensuring a circular approach.

The Biomethane Industrial Partnership is open to all interested stakeholders that wish to work towards achieving its objective. All EU Member States are invited to join the Biomethane Industrial Partnership, together with companies, industry associations, academia and civil society organisations.

Executive Vice-President Timmermans and Commissioner Simson joined Harmen Dekker, CEO of the European Biogas Association, and Ole Hvelplund, CEO of Nature Energy to mark the start of the Biomethane Industrial Partnership by symbolically opening a renewable gas pipeline during the EU Sustainable Energy Week in Brussels.

Executive Vice-President Timmermans said: “Europe has huge potential for the production of biomethane. With biomethane, we can replace fossil gas from Russia with homegrown, sustainable and renewable gas. Biomethane also creates new economic opportunities in rural areas. The Biomethane Industrial Partnership that we launch today will be instrumental to increase the production and use of biomethane across the EU.”

Commissioner Simson said: “Europe has great potential for producing biomethane, a green alternative for natural gas. In the current energy supply crisis, we cannot allow this potential to go to waste. The new Biomethane Industrial Partnership is open to all stakeholders to overcome barriers for growth, share best practices and foster collaboration to rapidly increase biomethane in production and use.”

EBA CEO Dekker said: “The biomethane sector is ready to meet the 35 bcm target which requires 70 to 80 billion euros of investment. The Biomethane Industrial Partnership will be instrumental in Europe to drive joint efforts to overcome barriers for investment, production and use.”

Nature Energy CEO Ole Hvelplund said: “The companies in the value chain are looking forward to working together to ensure a steep and simultaneous increase in biomethane production, grid-connection and off-take.”

A technical kick-off of the Biomethane Industrial Partnership will take place on 25 October 2022. Please find more information and an application form to join the Biomethane Industrial Partnership on www.bip-europe.eu.

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For inquiries please contact:

BIP Secretariat: secretariat@bip-europe.eu

EC: galin.gentchev@ec.europa.eu

EBA: dekker@europeanbiogas.eu

ABOUT THE BIOMETHANE INDUSTRIAL PARTNERSHIP: As part of its REPowerEU Plan, the European Commission proposes a rapid acceleration of renewable energy including increasing the EU annual production of biomethane to 35 bcm by 2030. Last May, the European Commission presented the biomethane action plan, including the setup of the Biomethane Industrial Partnership (BIP). Since then, the biomethane value chain has been working in cooperation with the European Commission on the implementation of the Biomethane Industrial Partnership to make sure Europe can reach the announced EU target for biomethane production.

ABOUT BIOMETHANE: Biomethane is the purified form of raw biogas and can be used as a natural gas substitute. It is one of the main renewable gases of the future and available today to decarbonise our energy system.