Gas Networks Ireland welcomes the inclusion of biogas in the Draft Kildare County Development Plan 2023 – 2029 and the reference to the fact that low carbon and renewable gases can be injected into the natural gas network. However, we would like to clarify a minor point in relation to section 7.9 and elaborate for full understanding for all stakeholders.
Biogas can be injected into the natural gas network when it has been upgraded to biomethane. Biomethane results from the purifiation of biogas to give it the same properties as natural gas. Biomethane can seamlessly replace natural gas on the network today and is fully compatible with existing appliances, technologies and vehicles. It can reduce emissions across key sectors of the economy including heating, industry, transport and power generation, while also supporting the decarbonisation of the agri-food sector.
The production of indigenous renewable gas in Ireland supports the circular economy and sustainable agriculture. As well as reducing on-farm emissions and supporting more sustainable supply chains, an indigenous biomethane industry can also provide significant opportunities for local communities from the sale of biomethane, feedstock used to produce the renewable gas, and a bio-fertiliser that is a by-product of the process. It facilitates sustainable circular economies with businesses having the opportunity to power their operations via renewable gas made from their own waste / agricultural feedstocks.
An indigenous biomethane industry is also crucial for enhancing the security and diversity of Ireland’s energy supply, reducing our reliance on importing energy. The development of biomethane production in Ireland is at an early stage with it first being introduced to the Irish gas network through an injection point in Cush, County Kildare in August 2019. However, the European Commission identified Ireland as having the highest potential biomethane production per capita in Europe[1].
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[1]https://ec.europa.eu/energy/sites/ener/files/documents/ce_delft_3g84_biogas_beyond_2020_final_report.pdf