Call for evidence – developing biomethane production in Northern Ireland

Economy Minister Deirdre Hargey has launched a three-month call for evidence seeking the views of key stakeholders on developing biomethane as a sustainable and secure renewable energy source as part of the broader strategy to meet climate change targets. Biomethane, a renewable form of natural gas, is the purified version of biogas produced from the breakdown of organic matter and offers a significant potential for contributing to Northern Ireland’s energy needs and environmental goals.

Northern Ireland has committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing the share of renewable energy with biomethane development a key component of this strategy, given its potential to replace fossil fuels in heating, electricity and transport sectors. The Department for the Economy has initiated a call for evidence to gather insights from stakeholders, ensuring:

• Diverse participation from industry experts, environmental groups, farmers and the general public
• Comprehensive assessment of existing policies and regulations to identify gaps and opportunities for biomethane production
• Support for incentives and innovation that is best to support and scale up biomethane production

Key considerations

1. Feedstock supply and sustainability
   Identifying sustainable sources of organic material, exploring the availability of agricultural waste, food waste, and other biomass resources.
2. Technology and infrastructure development
   Stakeholders are encouraged to provide insights on the latest industry-wide technologies capable of efficient biomethane production and the necessary infrastructure to make widescale production capable.
3. Economic viability and support mechanisms
   The financial feasibility of biomethane is of utmost importance. Stakeholder input is required on potential subsidies, grants, and other support mechanisms that could incentivise investment in biomethane.
4. Market development and demand
   Understanding the potential market for biomethane, including its use in heating, power generation, and transportation is essential to developing the market for biomethane. Stakeholders are asked to expand upon the current demand and future market opportunities that may arise.
5. Regulatory and policy barriers
   Identifying exiting regulatory and policy barriers to biomethane both in this jurisdiction and in others that can be overcome to encourage biomethane production.

The call to evidence for developing biomethane in Northern Ireland is a vital step in enhancing this jurisdiction’s renewable energy capacity while seeking to achieve the path to net zero targets. Comprehensive input from stakeholders will inform the development of effective policies and support mechanisms to promote the production and use of biomethane.

The call for evidence consultation paper and survey can be found here with the consultation closing on 9 August 2024. 

For further information in relation to this topic, please contact Mark Stockdale, Partner, Adam Magill, Solicitor, or your usual Energy, Infrastructure & Natural Resources team contact.

Date published: 5 June 2024