June 5, 2024 – The Irish government has launched its National Biomethane Strategy, setting an ambitious target to produce 5.7 terawatt-hours (TWh) of domestically sourced biomethane annually by 2030. This production goal aims to cover approximately 10% of Ireland’s current natural gas demand. The strategy was announced by Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan, and Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue.

The strategy outlines a comprehensive policy and regulatory framework designed to develop a robust biomethane industry in Ireland. The framework is structured around five key pillars: sustainability, biomethane demand, bioeconomy and circular economy, biomethane economics, and enabling policy requirements. These pillars encompass 25 strategic actions intended to address the challenges and leverage the opportunities presented by anaerobic digestion and biomethane production​ (Search for services or information)​​ (Search for services or information)​.

A critical component of the strategy is the initial €40 million capital funding aimed at kick-starting the development of approximately ten anaerobic digestion (AD) plants within the next 18 months. This funding is part of a broader plan to establish between 150 to 200 AD plants by 2030. The strategy also introduces regulatory obligations for energy providers to purchase renewable gas, creating a market for biomethane​ (Bioenergy Insight Magazine)​​ (Gas Networks Ireland)​.

The government’s plan includes the creation of a Biomethane Sustainability Charter, developed in consultation with policy, industry, and societal stakeholders. This charter will support an agriculture-led biomethane industry while ensuring environmental protections related to water, soil, biodiversity, and ecosystem services​ (Search for services or information)​.

Additionally, the strategy emphasizes the economic and environmental benefits of biomethane production. It aims to provide new income streams for farmers, reduce emissions from animal waste, and improve water quality. The initiative is also expected to enhance Ireland’s energy security by reducing reliance on imported energy​ (Gas Networks Ireland)​.

The implementation of the strategy will be overseen by a newly established Interdepartmental Biomethane Implementation Group, which will report to the Heat and Built Environment Taskforce. This group will ensure the necessary supports and infrastructure are in place to achieve the strategy’s goals​ (Search for services or information)​.

For more information, visit the official announcement on the Irish government website here and additional coverage on Bioenergy News and Gas Networks Ireland.