European Biogas Association report shows 2023 EU production at 22 bcm

In Belgium, combined biogas and biomethane production in 2023 amounted to 22 bcm, according to the 14th edition of the Statistical Report published Wednesday by the European Biogas Association. This is more than the entire inland natural gas demand of Belgium, Denmark, and Ireland combined, and represents 7% of the natural gas consumption of the European Union in 2023.

Considering the current rates of biogas and biomethane production, Europe could avoid 106 million tons of CO2 emissions each year, provide renewable energy to 19 million European households year-round, and fuel 533,000 LNG trucks annually.

The rollout of biogas will be key to bolster the EU’s competitiveness and leadership on clean technologies in the coming years, but also the resilience of the EU’s energy system. According to Eurostat, 98% of the EU’s natural gas demand in 2022 was covered by imports. Considering this significant reliance on external energy supplies and the resulting dependency on third parties, investing in biogases remains vital.

Despite the figures confirming the growth of the sector, as well as its role in reaching climate goals and energy independence, a greater focus on the optimization of market and regulatory conditions, including coherent planning of biomethane potential and faster permitting procedures, will be essential to ensure sustained growth in the coming years.