Germany’s biogas industry is growing slowly despite high demand

Although up to 120 new biogas plants are expected to be linked to the grid this year, discounting the capacity of those that will be shut down, the net new installations will be around 65 MW spread among 100 facilities.

This year, biogas plants in Germany will generate an estimated 33.56 TWh of energy and provide heat to 1.5 million people. This will offset approximately 21.2 million tonnes of CO2 emissions.

In Germany, there are now 9,770 biogas plants, with an installed capacity of 5,860 MW, up 194 MW from the previous year. About 33.47 TWh of gross electricity from biogas was produced.

Lower Saxony has the most available capacity among the federal states, with 1,451 MW, followed by Bavaria, which has 1,362 MW.

Horst Seide, president of the group, described the sector’s development as “not terrific” at a press conference on Thursday. The present data reveal significant uncertainty in the industry since regulatory restrictions and political uncertainties make investors less likely to invest. A firm commitment from politicians, as well as credible prospects beyond 2024, are required today in order to realise the potential of biogas, according to Seide.

The president also demanded that the Renewable Energy Act’s limits be lifted immediately (EEG). According to him, removing these impediments will allow the biogas industry to make a significant contribution to the country’s electricity, heat, and fuel supplies.