a readily available renewable fuel source for the decarbonisation of heating as well as blending for domestic and industrial applications without requiring costly infrastructure changes. Biomethane can also be stored easily and provides a more consistent output compared to renewable sources like solar and wind power, allowing for effective balancing of energy supply and demand.
2,000
+17.16%
1,440
1,500
1,368
1,283 1,267 1,287 1,301 1,280 1,293 1,317 1,319 1,315
1,229
1,000
500
0
Figure 3 Xoserve quarterly biomethane injection data illustrating the growth of biomethane contributions to the gas grid over time (GWh), from 2022 to 2024
Biomethane production is linked to the agricultural and waste sectors and can contribute to the principles of a circular economy. By transforming waste products into a valuable energy resource, this gas not only reduces landfill waste and potential contributions to greenhouse gases but also creates new economic opportunities. Using agricultural waste, for instance, can provide farmers with an additional revenue stream and contribute to more sustainable farming practices, with organic fertiliser being a by-product of biomethane production. Diversifying energy with locally produced, dispatchable renewable gas is a reliable way to increase energy security and build a more robust system. There is no doubt that biomethane offers a home-grown energy source that decreases reliance on imported fossil fuels. Market ready The next step to achieve broader adoption for biomethane is a clear and consistent policy framework that encourages investment. The current landscape is fragmented, and further strategic direction is needed to prepare the market. Government initiatives such as the Green Gas Support Scheme (GGSS) and Green Gas Levy (GGL) incentivise production for injection into the gas grid, and the extension of the GGSS to March 2028 provides a significant boost by making biomethane financially viable and offsetting the high upfront costs of anaerobic digestion plants and biogas upgrading.
it can be injected directly into the existing gas grid without the need for costly infrastructure upgrades. Data from the Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association (ADBA) show that the UK currently has 141 injection plants, a number expected to grow in the coming years. As shown in Xoserve’s data, we have seen a 17% growth in biomethane injection volumes between 2022-2024 (see Figure 3 ). Again, a prime example of a ‘low-regrets’ approach for the gas industry is the repurposing of existing networks for biomethane injection. This strategy maximises the longevity of existing infrastructure, reduces the impact on end consumers, and lowers emissions for many energy users across all sectors connected to the gas grid. This process is not just about generating renewable fuel; it is also about cross-industry collaboration with the waste sector to create a circular economy. If organic matter comes from food waste or manure, for example, these materials would have decomposed over time, releasing methane into the atmosphere regardless. Instead of letting this methane escape, biomethane production captures it and puts it to good use, thereby preventing the release of harmful gases into the atmosphere. Embracing biomethane As mentioned, biomethane is compatible with the UK’s extensive gas grid and can be directly injected into the existing network. This provides
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