AD plants could help ensure energy security

Support for anaerobic digestion could help ensure energy security – and meet the UK’s net zero ambitions, says an industry body.

The Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association (ADBA) says it has written to Chancellor Rachel Reeves – urging her to support the sector and its potential to produce clean, sustainable and secure energy.

The letter from ADBA chairman and former secretary of state Chris Huhne and ADBA chief executive Charlotte Morton OBE, supported by nearly 100 ADBA members and industry representatives.

£1bn investment

It suggests more than £1 billion of inwards infrastructure investment may be available if the government makes positive policy decisions that help the biogas sector.

Anaerobic Digestion currently produces more than 13TWh of biogas used to produce renewable electricity and over 7TWh of renewable gas. This is expected to reach a combined total of at least 30TWh by 2030.

Achieving those expectations will significantly contribute to the UK’s clean power objectives – and boost the rural economy.

Energy from anaerobic digestion – using feedstocks such as slurry, food waste and energy crops – is often generated in rural areas, supporting small businesses, farms, and communities across the country.

Additionally, it plays a crucial role in decarbonising wastewater treatment, food recycling, and the UK’s world-renowned food and drink manufacturing sector, says the letter.

“The sector is poised for rapid growth but requires positive action from your government to realise this potential,” it adds. “At least £1bn of investment is waiting to be unlocked.”

Global investors as well as British businesses are poised to invest in the sector if the government makes the right decisions and the Treasury provides further support to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero”, says the letter.

If that happens, “the AD sector will experience significant growth, attracting billions of pounds of investment in the coming years. This will ultimately help you achieve your key growth mission.

“The sector is alive, ready, and capable of playing its part in delivering net zero while generating homegrown, cheaper, greener, and more secure energy for the future. However, it requires action from you and your government to reach its full potential.”