How to boost biogas production in Norway?
Biogas production in Norway significantly lags our neighbour countries and is only 15% of estimated potential production. On June 21, 2023, Mana was invited by Norway's Ministry of Climate and Environment to attend an event on the potential for biogas in Norway, alongside Energigass Norge and NORSUS.
Biogas is poised to play a crucial role in achieving Norway’s climate targets for 2030. It enables both the circular economy, by turning waste into clean energy and nutrient-rich organic fertilizer, and reduced GHG emissions, by replacing fossil fuels. However, the current supply of biogas falls significantly short of what is needed. The Norwegian Environment Agency recently presented a report outlining necessary climate measures for 2030, highlighting biogas as a key component to meet climate targets in land transport, shipping, and industry. The agency estimates a total of over 5 TWh biogas will be required in Norway, whereas current production is a mere 700 GWh (<15% of the need).
Cathrine Løyning from Mana was invited to the panel to present Mana's bioconversion project and discuss measures to incentivize Norwegian biogas production. She emphasized the importance of simplifying and strengthening the incentive system, to help Norway catch up with neighbouring countries.
Due to the significant differences in the framework conditions for biogas in the Nordic region, we face tough competition from our neighboring countries in terms of pricing and access to substrates and offtake. A more harmonized regulatory framework would enhance Norway's competitiveness and facilitate better local utilisation.
Cathrine Løyning
Senior Business Developer, Mana