Brussels, 8 March 2022 - The European Commission communication REPowerEU released today is a decisive step towards the rapid development of the biomethane industry in Europe. “Europe needs to urgently diversify and reduce its dependence on Russian gas whilst stepping up on the ambition for the climate targets. The sector is ready to deliver the 35 bcm by 2030 proposed by the EU  and calls for the inclusion of this target in the recast of the Renewable Energy Directive (REDIII), currently under development. Close cooperation between the European Commission, Members States and the biomethane value chain will be required to ensure immediate action following today’s proposals. The biomethane target represents over 20% of the current EU gas imports from Russia. By 2050, this potential can triple, growing well over 100 bcm and covering 30-50% of the future EU gas demand.” Explains Harmen Dekker, CEO of the European Biogas Association (EBA).

The EBA has been intensely working to table sustainable biomethane as an essential renewable energy source in the past years. Over the past months, this work has been intensified within the Sustainable Biomethane Initiative, in which the EBA, together with Common Futures and representatives of the biomethane value chain, has started discussions with the European Commission and different Member States. Achieving the target presented today will require close public – private cooperation to attract capital investments. The significant increase of biomethane production will secure affordable and sustainable energy for EU citizens and will support the resilience of the EU economy.

“Some countries  are already active in  the development of the biomethane production in Europe. Many others are starting to unlock this potential now. Concerted actions across Member States will be critical to increase energy security with a scalable green gas in the coming months and years.” Underlines Harmen Dekker. The full supply chain of biomethane producers and users is ready to continue investing in the sector and deliver renewable gas for Europe with the support of national and EU policymakers.

About biomethane

Biomethane –  purified biogas –  is a renewable alternative to natural gas. Its multiple applications include heat and power supply for our buildings and industries, and renewable fuel production for the transport sector. 

About the EBA

The EBA fully believes in the future potential of renewable gas in Europe. Founded in February 2009, the association is committed to the deployment of sustainable biogas and biomethane production and use throughout the continent. EBA counts today on a well-established network of over 200 national organisations covering the whole biogas and biomethane value chain across Europe and beyond.

About the Sustainable Biomethane Initiative

The Sustainable Biomethane Initiative is a collaborative platform of companies and associations working to  ensure the large, Europe-wide scale-up and use of sustainable biomethane. The platform is chaired by the EBA and supported by the energy transition consultancy, Common Futures.

Contact

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