Catch up here if you missed it.
I recently attended the ADBA National Conference on 16/17 February. Due to the pandemic, it took place online featuring a variety of speakers from across the AD industry including Dr Jonathan Scurlock from the NFU.
It was impossible to escape the fervency expressed by the industry that AD had a major role to play in meeting the ambitious Net Zero targets. There was a lot of talk on a greener recovery and bouncing back better.
With the closure of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) to new applicants from 31 March 2021, everyone’s focus is on what comes next. The Green Gas Support Scheme (GGSS) will launch in autumn 2021, providing subsidy support for new biomethane gas-to-grid plants. It is anticipated to run for 4 years and then an alternative scheme will take over. There is much speculation because we are all in the dark until BEIS enlightens us.
Renewable Transport Fuel Certificates (RTFCs) and Green Gas Certificates (GGCs) are already available to biomethane producers now and these are expected to persist beyond the life of the GGSS.
People may be questioning what about hydrogen, but the fact is this technology is a long way from being implemented across the country. Whereas biomethane is already established and with concerted efforts, could make a significant contribution to us reaching those ambitious Net Zero targets.
Current AD owners might be wondering, can you convert your existing RHI-accredited plant into a biomethane plant? It is anticipated that AD plants currently receiving RHI support will not be eligible to join the GGSS. It isn’t entirely clear who will be eligible for the scheme or indeed what tariffs will be available but we’re keeping a close eye on developments.
If you’re interested in converting a CHP plant to biomethane, ADBA have requested you get in touch [email protected] as BEIS seem receptive to this concept but will need case study support.
What we do know is that biomethane vehicles are increasingly becoming more prevalent. Refuelling stations or localised off-grid green gas could be alternative options if access to a grid injection point are limited.
Availability of feedstock and accessibility are major factors to consider for any existing or new plant, amongst others. Necessity is the mother of all invention and meeting Net Zero will be challenging.
We’re keen to hear from any existing AD plants or those seriously considering biomethane to discuss your options further.
If you have any queries regarding this, give the NFU Energy team a call on 024 7669 8885.