A new study examines the use of biogas – gas produced from organic waste – as an energy source in Europe, and shows that it has not yet reached its full potential. As the EU works towards its ambitious energy and climate targets for 2020 and 2030, biogas can be a flexible and sustainable alternative source of energy, which supports energy security and greenhouse gas emission reduction in electricity, heating and transport. However, in some EU countries the absence of policies promoting biogas means that currently its full potential is not being used.
The study makes a number of recommendations for maximising the potential of biogas in Europe. It includes a call to create a long -term policy framework for the development of the biogas sector that also encompasses related areas, such as agriculture and waste management. In addition to creating a stable investment framework, several regulatory and technical barriers also still need to be addressed, including those hampering cross-border energy trade. The study also strongly recommends making more use of residual heat from biogas installations, and informing citizens about local biogas projects, their benefits, and safety guidelines.
Source : European Commission
Fabienne SANS 