As the world grapples with climate change, it’s now more important than ever to speed up the transition to renewable energy. As a country, the UK is actually doing remarkably well on this transition – in the last quarter of 2023, over half our energy came from renewables. This figure is expected to rise further in 2024, with the UK’s last gas-fired coal power plant ceasing operations later in the year.
Aside from wind and solar, there are a wide range of alternative energy sources. In this blog, we explore one of less-discussed renewable resources that accounts for around 5% of the UK’s energy generation – biogas.
How popular is biogas?
According to the Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association (ABDA), there are currently 720 AD plants operational in the UK, with a total installed capacity of 3.2GW, up 16.7% from 2.8GW last year[1]. ABDA suggests that, with existing feedstock available, biogas could provide up to 11% of the UK’s energy needs in future; and with new legislation coming into force from 2025 banning the landfilling of food waste, this potential could increase significantly.
However, to unlock the full potential of biogas, effective communication with stakeholders and decision-makers will be vital to bridge knowledge gaps, dispel common misconceptions and foster a supportive policy and investment environment.
Biogas 101
Biogas is produced through the anaerobic digestion of organic materials such as agricultural and food waste, plant materials and other biomasses like forestry waste. This process not only generates a renewable source of energy but also reduces the need for fossil fuels and produces valuable by-products like biofertilisers.
The use of biogas to generate energy is entirely carbon neutral because the CO2 released during energy generation is already part of the biogenic cycle – that is, the natural exchange of carbon between plants, animals, and the environment. This circular use of carbon already in the cycle is in stark contrast to natural gas, which is extracted from the Earth’s crust and adds additional CO2 to the biosphere when converted into electricity or heat. In most cases, natural gas can be replaced with biogas – offering the same amount of heat or electricity with only a fraction of the net carbon emissions.
Effective communication strategies take a leading role in demystifying biogas production and its benefits. Education campaigns and publicly-accessible resources can help people understand that biogas is not just an alternative energy source, but can be used as a comprehensive waste management solution that both contributes to environmental sustainability and bolsters economic resilience.
How can we address misconceptions around biogas?
One of the most significant barriers to the adoption of biogas as an alternative fuel source is the prevalence of misconceptions and scepticism about its sustainability and efficiency. Concerns often arise about the source of biomass feedstock and the environmental impact of its cultivation and processing. For instance, high-profile cases have highlighted issues with imported biomass, raising doubts about the sustainability of certain practices.[2]
This is why transparent communication from industry leaders and policymakers is so essential to address these concerns. By providing clear, evidence-based information about sustainability standards, lifecycle assessments, and regulatory frameworks, stakeholders can build up trust and credibility.
Highlighting advancements in technology that enhance efficiency and sustainability, such as improved anaerobic digestion processes and the circular use of waste and side-streams, can further mitigate doubts and demonstrate the industry’s commitment to sustainable practice.
Stepping on the gas to drive investment
Good communication is also critical in both shaping policy and attracting investment, because policymakers need to be informed about the benefits and potential of biogas to create supportive regulatory environments. These, in turn, can help mobilise investments into the sector. This involves not only lobbying and advocacy but also participating in public dialogues and consultations to ensure that policies reflect the needs and capabilities of the biogas sector.
Likewise, investors need confidence in the bankability and profitability of biogas projects. Detailed reports, case studies, and projections can demonstrate the return on investment and long-term benefits of an investment into a biogas project, and events like the World Biogas Expo[3] provide crucial opportunities for networking, sharing knowledge, and showcasing innovations, helping to attract these investments.
Good communications can drive collaboration
The biogas sector comprises various stakeholders from across the supply chain, including farmers, energy producers, waste managers, policymakers and researchers. Effective communication channels enable these stakeholders to share insights, best practices and innovations, and drive collective progress.
Building a strong, informed community around biogas can lead to collaborative projects and initiatives that compound the benefits of individual efforts. Networks and associations dedicated to biogas play a vital role in this, offering platforms for interaction and support.
As we navigate the challenges of climate change, the biogas sector’s ability to communicate its value and potential will be crucial in realising a cleaner, more resilient energy system in the UK and beyond.
ENDS
[1] https://adbioresources.org/resources/
[2] https://www.carbonbrief.org/qa-what-does-the-uks-new-biomass-strategy-mean-for-net-zero/