Get to know EBA’s new Policy Director
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Anna Venturini as Policy Director of the European Biogas Association (EBA). To mark this exciting new chapter, we asked her a series of questions to learn more about her background and discuss her vision for the future of EBA’s Policy team.
How did your journey lead you to the energy sector?
My journey to the energy sector was driven by a long-standing passion for sustainable energy solutions, sparked by initiatives like the Green Deal, which highlighted the sector’s critical role in addressing global challenges. After nearly five years in the transport sector, where I gained a solid foundation in mobility and logistics, I was eager to transition into a field that aligns closely with my interests and values. The opportunity at EBA provided the perfect platform for me to deepen my expertise in the energy sector, combining my professional experience with my commitment to sustainability and innovation.
As you take on your new role, what do you see as the EBA’s most critical policy priorities in the coming months?
The new institutional cycle is a pivotal opportunity for the biogases sector. The EBA holds great expectations for the legislators to recognise and support the vital role of biogases in achieving Europe’s climate and energy goals. President Von der Leyen’s program and the mission letters to the designated Commissioners have already offered us a glimpse into the Commission’s priorities, signalling significant momentum for renewable energy and sustainability. We anticipate that this term will bring a series of important policy revisions, particularly the Renewable Energy Directive (RED) and the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP), which are crucial for fostering the growth of sustainable biogas solutions. Moreover, we are especially eager to see the details of the Clean Industrial Deal, which has the potential to transform the EU’s industrial and economic strategy by driving innovation and scaling-up green technologies.
How do you see biogases contributing to Europe’s decarbonisation efforts, advancing the bioeconomy, and supporting energy transition goals?
Biogases play a pivotal role in Europe’s decarbonisation journey, driving the transition to a climate-neutral economy. They represent a key solution to defossilise the EU’s energy system while advancing bioeconomy and supporting energy transition goals. Looking ahead, the potential for biomethane production is substantial. Updated estimates indicate Europe could produce up to 44 bcm of biomethane by 2030, rising to 111 bcm by 2040 and 165 bcm by 2050. For the EU-27, this corresponds to 40 bcm in 2030, 101 bcm in 2040, and 150 bcm in 2050.
Considering the gas consumption trajectory developed in the European Commission’s 2040 Climate Plan, biomethane could meet much of the gas demand by that time, facilitating grid decarbonisation while also supporting other sectors, such as transport. However, unlocking this potential requires a strong and supportive legislative framework that prioritises renewable gases, streamlines permitting, and incentivises investments to scale-up biogases production.
What strategies do you plan to implement to engage key stakeholders and ensure the biogas sector is well-represented in EU policy discussions?
To ensure the biogases sector is well-represented in EU policy discussions, EBA will build on its strong collaboration with EU institutions and reaffirm its commitment to active engagement in this new legislative term. We aim to enhance communication with the European Commission, ensuring the sector’s voice is heard and contributing to policies that drive the energy transition.
In addition, EBA seeks to broaden its dialogue by engaging with a wide range of stakeholders, including political parties, to build consensus on the importance of biogases. We are also committed to strengthening our relationship with civil society through open communication with NGOs and think tanks, fostering mutual enrichment and overcoming skepticism. This collaborative approach will reinforce our sector’s role in the energy transition and build trust in biogas as a cornerstone of Europe’s sustainable future.
What role do you believe collaboration with other renewable energy sectors plays in strengthening the position of biogases within the energy systems?
Collaboration with other renewable energy sectors is essential for strengthening the role of biogases in the energy system. Achieving climate neutrality and a green energy mix requires diverse clean energy solutions, and no single technology can do this alone.
At both national and European levels, collaboration among renewable energy representatives is key to advancing policies that benefit the entire sector. EBA already has a strong network of allies, and the new institutional cycle presents an opportunity to deepen these partnerships.
By aligning on shared priorities, we can amplify our collective voice and demonstrate how renewable energy technologies complement each other. This will not only help overcome challenges but also maximise the benefits of the clean energy transition for all stakeholders, from policymakers to citizens across Europe.
