Footer Menu

Header Menu

Header Menu 2

Header Mobile Menu

Media

In February 2025, <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/">Future Biogas</a> and <a href="https://www.astrazeneca.co.uk/">AstraZeneca</a> commissioned the UK’s first unsubsidised biomethane plant at Gonerby Moor in Lincolnshire. One year on, Future Biogas CEO <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipp-lukas-054504/">Philipp Lukas</a> explains how the project shows biomethane can scale in the UK without government subsidy – and that the commercial case for green gas has never been stronger.
Moor Bioenergy was built on a simple premise: that the right partnership model could make biomethane commercially viable without relying on taxpayer support. After twelve months of continuous operation, we have a year of evidence to prove it.
Since it opened last year, Moor has injected almost 100 gigawatt hours (GWh) of renewable biomethane into the gas grid, avoiding approximately 17,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions (CO2e) that would otherwise have come from fossil gas. This represents almost 100% of total UK gas consumption for its exclusive offtaker, AstraZeneca, which has a long-term agreement for Moor to provide the gas it uses to generate clean heat for its R&amp;D and manufacturing operations across the UK.
Beyond energy generation, Moor Bioenergy has established itself as a key contributor to the local rural economy in Lincolnshire. anaerobic digestion produces biomethane which can be used as a direct drop-in replacement for fossil natural gas. The gas is produced from trillions of tiny microbes as they break down organic matter in oxygen-free tanks. The plant at Gonerby sources feedstock exclusively from regenerative energy crops, grown on a rotational basis within a 15-mile radius of the plant. Farmers benefit from five-year contracts that give local farmers financial security and provide them with diversification opportunities and the ability to plan their crop rotations up to a decade in advance. The anaerobic digestion also results in ‘digestate’ that is returned to farmers as a powerful, organic, soil-improver and fertiliser, replacing costly and carbon intensive traditional fertilisers which are typically manufactured or mined overseas. All feedstock is certified by the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) scheme, ensuring traceability and adherence to strict environmental criteria.
As the flagship plant for Future Biogas’ Project Carbon Harvest initiative, Moor Bioenergy also incorporates carbon capture technology. The biogenic CO2 (the same gas we breathe out, and one of the leading contributors to anthropogenic climate change) is separated during the upgrading of raw biogas into biomethane. This is the same CO2 that was absorbed (breathed in) from the atmosphere by the crops as they grew forming a complete cycle. What makes this plant different though is that this CO2 is being captured and used for commercial applications such as beverage carbonisation – putting the bubbles in fizzy drinks.
As the UK forges ahead with developing carbon storage facilities such as Endurance and HyNet, the CO2 from Moor is expected to be directed to geological sequestration, permanently removing it from the atmosphere. This is essential to Project Carbon Harvest: the objective of which is to move our biomethane plants beyond just renewable energy to verifiable, permanent carbon dioxide removal, i.e. removing more CO2 from the atmosphere than the whole process produces effectively providing much needed energy with net-negative emissions.
The unsubsidised model: how it works
The success of Moor Bioenergy rests on the key relationship with AstraZeneca, and a commercial model that differs fundamentally from traditional approaches to renewable energy deployment. To understand why, first consider the UK’s existing biomethane capacity, which was largely built with government support: first via the Renewable Heat Incentive, and subsequently the Green Gas Support Scheme (GGSS).
These mechanisms have been essential in establishing the biogas industry in the UK, but they come with limitations: finite budgets, complex eligibility criteria – and the possibility that subsidies may be reduced or halted. Indeed, the current Green Gas Support Scheme closes to new applications in 4 years, and it&#8217;s not yet clear what, will replace it.
With Moor, we set out on a different path. The plant’s commercial foundation is a 15-year offtake agreement with AstraZeneca, reflecting the pharmaceutical company&#8217;s commitment to achieving 100% renewable energy for its operations. This long-term certainty, combined with equivalent agreements with feedstock growers and the commercialisation of captured CO2, creates the commercial stability needed for the facility to operate without public subsidy, and with ultimate integrity.
The integrity of the model depends on 100% additionality. Rather than relying on renewable gas certificates, which do little to stimulate new supply, AstraZeneca’s partnership directly enabled the construction of a new plant. That means every molecule of biomethane from Moor Bioenergy adds real, additional renewable energy to the UK system.
This matters for corporate buyers who face increasing scrutiny of their decarbonisation claims. As companies face growing pressure from investors, regulators and customers to demonstrate meaningful climate action, the distinction between certificate trading and genuine investment in new capacity becomes critical.
A shifting policy landscape
Moor Bioenergy’s first year of operation has coincided with a shift in biomethane’s place within UK energy policy that suggests the wider biomethane sector may be approaching a turning point. In July 2025, the National Energy System Operator (NESO) published its <a href="https://www.neso.energy/publications/future-energy-scenarios-fes">Future Energy Scenarios</a>, the first under NESO’s new remit as an independent body overseeing the whole energy system. In this, the Holistic Transition pathway – the only one that achieves the UK’s Nationally Determined Contributions for 2030 and 2035 under the Paris Agreement – calls for 64 TWh of biomethane production by 2050. This is more than double the government’s previous estimates, and represents more than a tenfold increase from the production levels of today.
<a href="https://greengastaskforce.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/GGT-Unlocking-the-Potential-of-Biomethane.pdf">Research from Alder BioInsights</a> published in September 2025, estimated that the UK’s biomethane production capacity could increase as high as 120TWh a year by 2050, and identified that sustainable feedstock would be integral to delivering at this scale. The research suggests that the constraint on growth is policy ambition, rather than the availability of resources.
The Green Gas Taskforce, launched in April 2025 as a collaboration between the UK’s largest biomethane producers, all five British gas networks and key industry associations, has helped build the evidence base for these conclusions. Its October 2025 report on <a href="https://greengastaskforce.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Cadent-GGT_Biomethane_Study.pdf">the economics of biomethane</a> found that scaling up green gas production could reduce the cost of achieving net zero by roughly £150-£220 billion.
But against this backdrop of growing recognition, there’s one significant policy anomaly. Under the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), biomethane supplied directly to ETS installations receives a zero emissions factor. However, identical biomethane injected into the gas grid – which is how most biomethane reaches end users – receives no such recognition. For corporate buyers subject to the ETS, purchasing grid-injected biomethane delivers no reduction in their reported emissions under the scheme.
This stands in contrast to the equivalent scheme in the European Union, under which sustainably sourced biogas may be “zero-rated” even when use occurs at a different installation from the one where it was produced. This disparity places UK biomethane producers at a competitive disadvantage relative to their European counterparts. More importantly for the UK’s net zero journey, it also removes a significant commercial incentive for corporate buyers to invest in green gas.
The government has now indicated that it’s working with the ETS Authority to consider whether the scheme could account for grid-injected biomethane, with a consultation on the future biomethane policy framework expected by the end of the 2025/26 financial year. For the sector, clarity on this question has become urgent given the Green Gas Support Scheme closure. Without a clear successor framework, investment decisions are already being delayed.
The forward path
NESO’s scenarios make clear that there is no credible pathway to net zero that does not involve substantial scaling of biomethane production. The technology is proven and, as Moor Bioenergy demonstrates, the commercial model can work without subsidy.
The comparison with other low-carbon gas alternatives is instructive. While hydrogen has long been positioned as the solution for decarbonising gas demand, production at scale still appears far off and expensive by comparison. Adaptation of both the grid and of combustion equipment would be required. By contrast, biomethane is available now on a drop-in basis; compatible with existing infrastructure, and capable of delivering verified emissions reductions today.
International comparisons underscore the point. In Denmark, over 40% of gas supply already comes from domestic biomethane, with the country on course to reach 100% by 2030. France is targeting 16% biomethane in its distribution network by 2030. In the UK today, biomethane makes up approximately 1% of the gas grid. The technology is not experimental; it’s becoming fundamental to energy transition strategies across Europe.
Moor Bioenergy was always intended as the first of many bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) plants we would develop, and the pipeline is growing. We have multiple new biomethane plants equipped with with BECCS at various stages of planning, and this year we’re exploring the retrofit of BECCS technology to some existing plants in our portfolio, accelerating our transition to carbon-negative operations.
Each new BECCS plant has the potential to capture thousands of tonnes of biogenic CO2 per year for permanent geological storage, actively removing carbon from the atmosphere. But realising this vision at scale requires policy certainty. While a clear successor mechanism to the GGSS would be welcome, the industry most needs grid-injected biomethane to be treated as zero-emission under the UK ETS. This, more than anything, would preserve biomethane’s momentum, enabling it to continue scaling towards its potential.
But current capacity is limited and with planning permissions being slow, the ability for supply to keep up with demand could be in jeopardy. We’re also in conversations with other large organisations including data centres who have ambitious decarbonisation targets and are looking to emulate AstraZeneca’s success. And one thing is clear. These companies are looking for high-integrity and additional options that will future-proof their decarbonisation plans and offer long-term pricing certainty.
The fundamentals are in place. Biomethane offers a proven, scalable, homegrown renewable gas that strengthens energy security, supports rural communities, and delivers verifiable decarbonisation for hard-to-abate industries. A year of operation at Moor Bioenergy has demonstrated that the commercial model works. What the sector needs now is policy that matches the opportunity.
Discover how sustainable, additional biomethane stands ready to support your organisation’s decarbonisation goals, <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/contact/">contact Future Biogas today</a>.

A year at Moor Bioenergy: lessons from the UK’s first unsubsidised biomethane plant

<div>
Future Biogas today announces the acquisition of Burton Agnes Renewables Limited (BAR), a biomethane production facility located at Harpham Grange Farm in East Yorkshire.
</div>
<div>
Future Biogas has managed, maintained and operated the site since 2021 and has now acquired BAR, securing long-term ownership of the operational asset while continuing to run the facility day-to-day.
</div>
<div>
Set in the heart of the Yorkshire countryside, the plant is surrounded by a thriving agricultural community.  Local farms have the opportunity to grow sustainable bio-energy crops as part of a diversified rotation to support biomethane production. As part of the circular process, solid and liquid digestate (the natural fertiliser produced as a by-product of the anaerobic digestion process) is returned to farms as a low carbon source of nutrients and organic matter.
The plant currently produces approximately 40 gigawatt hours (GWh) per annum of biomethane, supporting renewable gas supply and the UK’s decarbonisation ambitions with enough green energy to power 2,800 typical UK households1. The site also has potential to capture over 7,000 tonnes of CO2 per year (at current capacity). The capture and storage of this CO2 could render the emissions generated by the plant to be carbon negative; meaning the entire process would remove more carbon from the atmosphere than it produces.
</div>
<div>
BAR is now one of 11 plants operated by Future Biogas and this acquisition marks the 10th plant in which the company now owns a majority stake.
</div>
<div>
Philipp Lukas – CEO Future Biogas said “Biomethane is so important for the global energy transition. We’ve been exceptionally proud to operate the Burton Agnes Renewables site since 2021. This acquisition reflects our long-term commitment to the site, to the local growers community and regenerative agriculture. We will continue to operate the plant, while exploring potential development opportunities that will increase production and further enhance the sustainability of the gas produced there.”
</div>
<div>1. Household equivalent based on 40,000,000 kWh per year output / 14,200 kWh per household per annum = 2,816 households, source: Ofgem </div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/information-consumers/energy-advice-households/average-gas-and-electricity-use-explained">https://www.ofgem.gov.uk/information-consumers/energy-advice-households/average-gas-and-electricity-use-explained</a>
</div>
<h5><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-5922" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/V6A4264-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="200" />Burton Agnes Renewables</h5>
&nbsp;

Future Biogas acquires Burton Agnes Renewables biomethane plant in East Yorkshire

<div>
<h2 class="FB-Mainbody">Government, embassy, consultancy, utility and industry group visits Moor Bioenergy at a pivotal milestone in Ireland’s energy regulation roadmap.</h2>
</div>
Future Biogas, the UK’s leading developer and operator of anaerobic digestion (AD) plants, this week welcomed a 20+ strong delegation of influential stakeholders to its Moor Bioenergy site, representing a full spectrum of Ireland’s energy interests. This fact-finding visit closely follows key Irish regulatory announcements such as the <a href="https://enterprise.gov.ie/en/publications/leap.html">Large Energy User Action Plan</a> (LEAP) and <a href="https://www.cru.ie/publications/28906/">Large Energy Users Connection Policy</a> (LEU).
The group included: the UK Embassy in Dublin; the Department of Agriculture, Food and The Marine; the Agriculture and Food Development Authority; Climate Action Regional Offices; local councils; engineering consultants; trade associations; utilities; potential offtakers from the manufacturing and food and beverage sectors; the UK’s Department for Energy and Net Zero; and the Europe-wide innovation agency, Climate KIC.
Philipp Lukas, CEO of Future Biogas, said: “We are immensely proud that so many influential Irish organisations expressed such strong interest in our flagship Moor Bioenergy facility – the UK’s first industrial-scale, unsubsidised biomethane plant. The visit underlined growing demand from Ireland’s central and local government, utilities, industry and their collective advisors for an immediate drop-in substitute to fossil gas, both for baseload and dispatchable power. Biomethane is a clear and proven solution, whether sleeved in the short term through existing UK interconnectors or produced domestically in plants across Ireland.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5897 alignleft" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/003-FB_Moor-Feb26-4212-1-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="434" height="289" />
We look forward to continued discussions with this group to support the delivery of the Irish government’s step-change ambition for 5.7 TWh per year of biomethane supply by 2030 – serving energy intensive sectors such as food and beverage, packaging and glass, utilities and data centres.”
<a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/our-projects/moor-bioenergy-ltd/">Moor Bioenergy</a>, near Grantham in Lincolnshire, is the UK’s first unsubsidised bioenergy with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) facility. It produces biomethane under an exclusive 15-year offtake agreement with AstraZeneca, and captures approximately 14,000 tonnes of biogenic CO₂ per year for use in food and beverage production. Combined with equivalent agreements with feedstock growers, this creates the commercial stability needed for the facility to operate without public subsidy.
&nbsp;
In Ireland this economic proposition is even stronger since, unlike the UK, grid-injected biomethane is treated as zero-emission under the EU Emissions Trading Scheme. Through its recent LEAP and CRU policy initiatives, Irish regulators’ expectations on renewable sourcing and system responsibility for large energy users are tightening – especially for data centres. However, many energy-intensive projects remain without connection certainty; with grid congestion and delays becoming a growing site-selection constraint. Biomethane can bypass these logjams, as an immediate drop-in substitute for fossil gas in turbines, gas engines, combined heat and power (CHP) plants or fuel cells.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5881 aligncenter" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/029-FB_Moor-Feb26-4448_websize-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="431" height="287" />
Looking at the wider European context, in Denmark 40% of gas supply already comes from domestic biomethane, with the country on course to reach 100% by 2030. While France is targeting 16% biomethane in its distribution network by 2030. The technology is not experimental; it’s becoming fundamental to energy transition strategies across Europe.
&nbsp;
Breda Maher, from Ireland’s <a href="https://www.caro.ie/the-caros/what-we-do">Climate Action Regional Offices</a>, added: “Future Biogas’s work at Moor Bioenergy is a powerful demonstration of how environmental ambition and economic opportunity can go hand in hand. Beyond generating green energy, its circular, locally rooted model is strengthening the rural economy and enhancing farm resilience; keeping value within the community and delivering benefits far beyond emissions reduction alone. Seeing it first‑hand has truly highlighted the breadth and potential of sustainable energy infrastructure.”
Denyse Julien, Program Manager at <a href="https://www.climate-kic.org/who-we-are/about-climate-kic/">Climate KIC</a> continued: “Future Biogas’s Moor Bioenergy facility is an excellent demonstration of how innovation, community partnership and climate ambition can come together to deliver real decarbonisation solutions. It shows what’s possible when we take a truly holistic approach to developing and managing a bioenergy facility. As Ireland moves forward with its national biomethane strategy, there is enormous opportunity to adopt locally‑driven approaches to build circular, resilient economies that work for farmers, industry and the climate. As Climate KIC, we’re proud to facilitate this collaboration between the UK and Ireland, and advance biomethane as a cornerstone of the circular bioeconomy.”<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5889 alignright" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/073-FB_Moor-Feb26-4998_websize-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="461" height="307" />
Since it opened in February 2025, Moor Bioenergy has injected over 100 gigawatt hours (GWh) of renewable biomethane into the gas grid, avoiding approximately 18,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions (CO₂e) that would otherwise have come from fossil gas. This not only represents around 20% of total global gas consumption for AstraZeneca but also demonstrates genuine <a href="https://academy.sustain-cert.com/topic/what-is-additionality/">additionality</a>: rather than purchasing existing renewable gas certificates, AstraZeneca’s partnership directly enabled new production capacity.
Beyond energy generation, Moor Bioenergy has established itself as a key contributor to the local rural economy. The plant sources feedstock exclusively from regenerative energy crops,grown on a rotational basis within a 15-mile radius, under five-year contracts that give local farmers financial security and provide them with diversification opportunities. The residue or ‘digestate’ from the plant is returned to farmers as a soil-improver, replacing costly and carbon intensive traditional fertilisers which are typically manufactured or mined overseas.
Biomethane offers a proven, scalable, renewable gas that strengthens energy security, supports rural communities, and delivers verifiable decarbonisation for hard-to-abate industries.
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5910 alignleft" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/060-FB_Moor-Feb26-4038-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="431" height="287" />
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-5906 alignleft" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Visitor_1.jpg" alt="" width="443" height="289" />
Kara Owen, British Ambassador to Ireland, concluded: “The British Embassy Dublin is proud to support closer collaboration between the UK and Ireland in advancing renewable energy solutions. The visit to Moor Bioenergy highlighted the innovation already underway and the opportunities that biomethane presents for both our countries. Continued partnership between governments, industry and communities will be essential as we work together toward a secure, sustainable, and low‑carbon future.”
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-5879 aligncenter" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/077-FB_Moor-Feb26-4798_websize-300x200.jpg" alt="" width="476" height="317" />

Future Biogas hosts high-level Irish delegation

Future Biogas and AstraZeneca today announced that the UK’s first unsubsidised biomethane plant dedicated to fuelling the life sciences sector is operational. Located in Gonerby Moor, Lincolnshire, the plant will provide clean heat for all of AstraZeneca’s R&amp;D and manufacturing in the UK, supporting sustainable production of medicines.
<h3>Headline Figures</h3>
AstraZeneca is the first company in the UK with commitments to using biomethane at scale to fuel the discovery, development and manufacture of medicines.
The Moor Bioenergy plant in Lincolnshire will supply 100 GWh of renewable energy annually to AstraZeneca UK, equivalent to 20% of the Company’s total global gas consumption, displacing approximately 18,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions per year from fossil gas.
This partnership supports AstraZeneca’s Ambition Zero Carbon goal to use 100% renewable energy for its own operations by the end of 2025 and achieve science-based net zero by 2045.
<h3>The Launch</h3>
Future Biogas and AstraZeneca today announced that the UK’s first unsubsidised biomethane plant dedicated to fuelling the life sciences sector is operational. Located in Gonerby Moor, Lincolnshire, the plant will provide clean heat for all of AstraZeneca’s R&amp;D and manufacturing in the UK, supporting sustainable production of medicines.
The plant, which will operate 24/7, will generate enough biomethane to heat the equivalent of over 8,000 homes a year and boost the UK&#8217;s green energy capacity. This is another step towards the Company’s ambition to creating a cleaner, more sustainable future for people, society and the planet.
<blockquote>We are committed to climate action and innovation in sustainability to decarbonise healthcare. By investing in unsubsidised biomethane capacity, we’re proud to contribute to reducing carbon emissions while strengthening the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure.
<h6>Liz Chatwin, VP, Global Sustainability and SHE at AstraZeneca</h6>
</blockquote>
The plant also features innovative carbon capture technology, which collects carbon dioxide (CO2) produced during biomethane generation. This CO2 can either be reused in other industries or in the longer-term it can be permanently geologically sequestered underground, removing CO2 from the atmosphere.
Feedstock supplied to Moor Bioenergy will be crops sourced close to the plant, with local farmers supported to drive sustainable farming practices. Five-year feedstock contracts will offer farmers greater financial security, helping to mitigate the challenges of fluctuating food crop prices and climate change. Feedstock will be certified by International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) – an independent body which verifies that crops are traceable and grown in accordance with strict social and environmental criteria .
Philipp Lukas, CEO of Future Biogas, said, &#8220;With the launch of Moor Bioenergy – the UK’s first unsubsidised biomethane facility in partnership with AstraZeneca – we are proving that innovation and bold vision can drive real change. This project is not only about generating clean, renewable gas, it’s a powerful call to all companies to decarbonise industrial gas and heat use.&#8221;
<h3>Notes to editors:</h3>
About Future Biogas
Future Biogas is one of the largest producers of biomethane in the UK. Following investment from 3i Infrastructure plc and RWE Renewables, Future Biogas is working to reshape the biogas industry with its unsubsidised offering – Project Carbon Harvest. This project is helping decarbonise both agriculture and industry by making high-quality, unsubsidised green gas from sustainably grown inputs.
For more information, please visit <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com">https://www.futurebiogas.com</a>.
About AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of prescription medicines, primarily for the treatment of diseases in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and BioPharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal &amp; Metabolism, and Respiratory &amp; Immunology. Based in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide.
For more information, please visit <a href="https://www.astrazeneca.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.astrazeneca.co.uk</a>.

Future Biogas and AstraZeneca bring the UK’s first unsubsidised biomethane plant online

145+ global organisations sign open letter calling for clarity in GHG Protocol on the role of market instruments for renewable gases: (<a href="https://www.worldbiogasassociation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Global-letter-GHG-protocol-250521.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.worldbiogasassociation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Global-letter-GHG-protocol-250521.pdf</a>).
Following the withdrawal of guidance on the use of biomethane certificates in the GHG Protocol,<a href="https://letgreengascount.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> over 145 companies and trade associations</a> from around the world have issued a public joint letter to the governance bodies of the <a href="https://ghgprotocol.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GHG Protocol</a> calling for the key role of market-based instruments to be recognised in the Protocol’s Scope 1 inventory. Their message to the GHG Protocol is simple: Let Green Gas Count.
The GHG Protocol is the world’s leading standard for measuring and managing greenhouse gas emissions. Widely used by businesses, governments, and organisations globally, it provides a framework for tracking, reporting and reducing emissions. Its influence shapes corporate climate strategies and drives accountability in emission reduction efforts.
Led by the World Biogas Association (WBA), the <a href="https://adbioresources.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association</a> (ADBA), the <a href="https://www.rngcoalition.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas</a>, <a href="https://www.eurogas.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Eurogas</a>, and the <a href="https://www.europeanbiogas.eu/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">European Biogas Association</a> (EBA), the signatories represent economic operators globally responsible for the production, trading and consumption of renewable gaseous fuels and their derivatives. They underline the urgent need for a climate reporting framework that provides rules and certainty for investment in their sectors.
Renewable gases and their derivatives are necessary to decarbonise industry, transport and buildings. To facilitate their rapid deployment, a market-based approach is required to overcome any economic, technical and environmental barriers and inefficiencies arising from the requirement of a physical (local) connection.
As the Corporate Standard of the GHG Protocol is being revised, the signatories urge its governance bodies to include such an approach in the Scope 1 inventory, for both fuel and feedstock applications.
Additionally, the signatories appeal to the governing bodies to issue an interim statement in the first half of 2025, confirming that robust market instruments for renewable gases will be recognised at the end of the Corporate Standard revision process to support the decarbonisation of industries. This would provide stakeholders with clarity and confidence, as the development of revised standards can take several years.
Charlotte Morton OBE, Chief Executive of the World Biogas Association, emphasised the urgency of the issue:
<blockquote>The Greenhouse Gas Protocol’s lack of guidance on the use of market-based mechanisms such as biomethane certificates has been suppressing the sector and delaying urgent and meaningful action to reduce global GHG emissions. We cannot afford to wait years for new standards to be developed. The sector needs certainty now to scale up efforts to prevent potent methane emissions while transforming organic wastes into clean, reliable, green gas for heat, power and transport that displaces its fossil equivalents.</blockquote>

Let Green Gas Count

In honour of National Apprenticeship Week (Feb 10th-14th), we’re shining a spotlight on Dana Sela, an apprentice working at Future Biogas. Having been with the company for over two years, Dana shares her journey into the world of biogas, the challenges and rewards of her role, and advice for anyone considering an apprenticeship.
<h3>A Career Change Toward Practicality</h3>
Dana’s journey to Future Biogas wasn’t linear. Initially planning a career in law, she realised her true passion lay in hands-on, practical work. After consulting with a college career advisor, she pivoted to electrical studies. “I’ve always been more of a practical or hands-on person,” Dana explains. This decision set her on a path toward an apprenticeship that would combine technical skill development with real-world experience.
When asked how she discovered Future Biogas, Dana recalls an email circulated by her college, listing apprenticeship opportunities. After consulting with her tutor about the reliability and potential of various programs, she applied to Future Biogas. “I went through the interview and all the different steps, and here I am now,” she says.
<h3>Life as an Apprentice</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3829" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-insights-research-dana-sela-a-day-in-the-life-of-a-future-biogas-apprentice-image-one.jpg" alt="Dana Sela: A Day in the Life of a Future Biogas Apprentice | Insights &amp; Research | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Dana’s apprenticeship involves rotation between multiple sites and responsibilities. Her primary site is Merlin Renewables, but she spends time at Ridge Road Energy and others as part of a program that blends site support and maintenance rotations. “At the moment, we’re doing two months with maintenance and one month on site,” she explains. This varied schedule ensures apprentices gain exposure to the full spectrum of biogas plant operations.
A typical day on site includes conducting daily checks, monitoring plant readings, and troubleshooting issues. Dana emphasises the importance of learning from experienced maintenance teams whenever possible, as her apprenticeship is building toward a specialised role in that area. “I’ve really built on my understanding of how the plants work, what to check and why. It’s about knowing what’s normal and what’s not,” she notes.
Reflecting on the Experience 
When asked how the apprenticeship compares to her initial expectations, Dana admits she wasn’t sure what to anticipate. “I didn’t know anyone who had done an apprenticeship before, so I didn’t really have anyone to talk to about it,” she says. Despite the unknowns, she’s found the hands-on learning approach invaluable. “The time I’ve spent in my apprenticeship has given me experience I wouldn’t have necessarily received at university.”
<h3>Advice for Aspiring Apprentices</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-3830" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-insights-research-dana-sela-a-day-in-the-life-of-a-future-biogas-apprentice-image-two.jpg" alt="Dana Sela: A Day in the Life of a Future Biogas Apprentice | Insights &amp; Research | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Dana’s advice to anyone considering an apprenticeship, especially with Future Biogas, is simple: go for it—but only if you’re committed. “If you’re not going to be serious about it, you’re not going to get the most out of it,” she states.
For Dana, the practical experience gained during her apprenticeship has been a major advantage. “You’ve got the three or four years of experience, and you’ve already got a company that may potentially want to keep you on. So, you’ve got that job almost secured, and you’re trained for it as well,” she explains.
<h3>Looking Ahead</h3>
Dana’s journey exemplifies the value of apprenticeships for those seeking a practical, experience-based route into their careers. With Future Biogas, she has found a company that not only trains but also supports apprentices in developing the skills needed to thrive in the industry.
For anyone considering their next steps, Dana’s story is a testament to the rewards of taking the leap into an apprenticeship. Whether you’re pivoting from a different career path or starting fresh, Future Biogas might just be the opportunity you’re looking for.

Dana Sela: A Day in the Life of a Future Biogas Apprentice

Future Biogas is pleased to announce the appointment of James Wiseman as Production Director.
<h3>James&#8217; Background</h3>
James brings over two decades of experience in the energy sector, with a strong background in engineering delivery, leadership and strategic consultancy.
He began his career with a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Loughborough University, followed by a role as a safety case consultant in the nuclear sector. James has since held various leadership positions, including managing FTSE 100 change-programmes and serving as an energy advisor to the UK government.
Philipp Lukas, Chief Executive Officer of Future Biogas, commented: &#8220;We are delighted to welcome James to our senior leadership team. His extensive experience will be instrumental as we continue to scale our operations and contribute to the UK&#8217;s energy transition.&#8221;
James Wiseman expressed his enthusiasm about joining Future Biogas: &#8220;Biomethane is a critical (economical, sustainable and scalable) component of the future energy mix. I look forward to working with the team to help drive operations and support the company&#8217;s ambitious growth plans.&#8221;
This strategic hire comes at a pivotal time for Future Biogas. In August 2024, with the backing of 3i Infrastructure, the company acquired a 51% stake in a portfolio of six additional gas-to-grid AD facilities, collectively producing 333 GWh of gas annually. This acquisition not only expanded Future Biogas&#8217;s operational capacity but also reinforced its position as a key player in the UK&#8217;s renewable energy sector.
Furthermore, Future Biogas is pushing forward with the first unsubsidised biomethane project in the UK through Project Carbon Harvest. The project combines anaerobic digestion, regenerative farming, and carbon sequestration to deliver a multi-value, circular economy.
Future Biogas is confident that James&#8217; leadership will further strengthen its commitment to delivering renewable energy solutions and advancing the UK&#8217;s net-zero ambitions.

Future Biogas Appoints James Wiseman as Production Director

<h3>January</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3738 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-2024-in-review-image-seven.jpg" alt="Future Biogas 2024 in review | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Industry insights: Policy Lead Dr. Nick Primmer contributed to a Bioenergy Insight report, discussing themes anticipated to shape the bioenergy sector in 2024. The report can be found <a href="https://a.storyblok.com/f/248396/x/24f0fc03ba/bioenergy-insight-report-2024.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
Documentary: Future Biogas was featured in the documentary &#8220;The UK&#8217;s Clean Energy Future,&#8221; highlighting its role in advancing renewable energy solutions. You can watch the final feature <a href="https://www.executivetv.org/en/media/the-uks-clean-energy-future">here</a>.
<h3>March</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3739 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-2024-in-review-image-one.jpg" alt="Future Biogas 2024 in review | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Documentary: Commercial Director Adam Francis appeared in &#8220;The Path to Sustainability&#8221; documentary, a feature looking at businesses based in Hampshire and Surrey offering green solutions and more sustainable ways of doing business. The feature can be viewed <a href="https://youtu.be/zyb2WAALpCk?si=APfZlDKPnsSRpMSB" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here.</a>
<h3>April</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3740 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-2024-in-review-image-two.jpg" alt="Future Biogas 2024 in review | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Agricultural Board: Future Biogas launched an Agricultural Board to to provide independent farming, scientific and market expertise and scrutiny to help deliver Project Carbon Harvest. You can read more about the announcement <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/news-resource/future-biogas-launches-independent-agricultural-board/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<h3>May</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3741 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-2024-in-review-image-three.jpg" alt="Future Biogas 2024 in review | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Carbon Literacy Training: Future Biogas initiated internal Carbon Literacy training to enhance employee understanding of carbon management and sustainability.
Innovation Recognition: The company was named one of the 500 most innovative UK companies in the <a href="https://www.ukii.uk/report/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UK Innovation &amp; Impact report</a>.
<h3>June</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3742 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-2024-in-review-image-four.jpg" alt="Future Biogas 2024 in review | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Company Day: Employees participated in a company day at Woburn Safari Park, engaging in team-building activities, including constructing equipment for the animal enclosures and a talk from the group <a href="https://www.outtapuffdaddys.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Outta Puff Daddys</a>, a dance group that campaigns for mental health awareness.
ISCC Membership: Future Biogas became a member of the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC), reinforcing its commitment to sustainable practices. Read more <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/news-resource/future-biogas-becomes-iscc-member/">here</a>.
Sustainability Award: The company won the <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/news-resource/future-biogas-wins-sustainability-award/">Sustainability Award</a> at the 2024 REA British Renewable Energy Awards, recognizing its Project Carbon Harvest initiative, the UK&#8217;s first unsubsidised biomethane project, and its collaboration with AstraZeneca.
<h3>August</h3>
Strategic Acquisition: With backing from 3i Infrastructure, Future Biogas acquired a 51% stake in a portfolio of six gas-to-grid anaerobic digestion facilities, adding a combined gas output of 333GWh to its operations. Read more <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/news-resource/future-biogas-acquires-portfolio-of-six-anaerobic-digestion-facilities/">here</a>.
<h3>September</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3743 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-2024-in-review-image-five.jpg" alt="Future Biogas 2024 in review | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Charity Initiative: A team from Future Biogas completed a marathon-length &#8220;Moonwalk&#8221; between Grange Farm Energy and Merlin Renewables, raising over £20,000 for Walk the Walk Worldwide, supporting cancer research and related services. Read more here.
Digital Presence: Future Biogas launched a new website to correspond to a refresh of its visual brand. Please explore the site if you haven&#8217;t visited before!
<h3>October</h3>
Investment: Future Biogas announced an investment from RWE Energy Transition Investments, an arm of RWE Supply &amp; Trading GmbH, to support the company&#8217;s growth strategy and development of renewable energy projects. Read more <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/news-resource/future-biogas-announces-an-investment-from-rwe-energy-transition-investments/">here</a>.
<h3>November</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3744 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-2024-in-review-image-six.jpg" alt="Future Biogas 2024 in review | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Policy Discussion: In collaboration with Cadent Gas and the Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA), Future Biogas hosted a panel discussion at the House of Commons titled &#8220;Greening the Gas Grid without Subsidy,&#8221; focusing on decarbonizing the UK gas grid and biogas&#8217; role in helping achieve net-zero. Read more <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/news-resource/house-of-commons-event-greening-the-gas-grid-without-subsidy/">here</a>.
Business Profile: NatWest Business profiled Future Biogas, highlighting its contributions to the renewable energy sector and its role in the UK&#8217;s transition to sustainable energy. Read the feature <a href="https://www.natwest.com/business/insights/sector-trends/natural-resources-renewables-and-utilities/future-biogas-sustainable-growth-in-the-renewable-energy-sector.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.
<h3>Community Funding</h3>
Across the biogas plants we own or operate, we run community funding schemes that aim to support local, not-for-profit initiatives that contribute to:
<ul>
<li>Social sustainability</li>
<li>Environmental sustainability</li>
<li>Educational promotion</li>
</ul>
Funding is awarded on an application basis. In 2024, Future Biogas contributed over £61,000 towards community schemes, a record year!
The Future Biogas team wishes everyone a Happy New Year.

Future Biogas 2024 in review

New modelling by ADBA and Business Modelling Applications (BMA) reveals that expanding biogas and biomethane use could save £298 billion in energy system costs – equivalent to £415 per British household annually – compared to current UK government scenarios.
<h3>Cutting the Cost of Keeping the Lights on.</h3>
The report argues that policymakers have underestimated the potential of organic feedstocks. While the government’s Biomass Strategy estimates 35 TWh of biogas production, recent studies suggest the potential is at least 3 times more, offering a far greater contribution to the energy mix and net-zero goals.
These findings, based on BMA’s Decisio™ platform (used by Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and National Energy System Operator), demonstrate the cost-saving and climate-friendly benefits of green gas.
<ul>
<li>Cut the costs of 2030 clean power goals, saving £22 billion (£133 per household annually).</li>
<li>Provide reliable, year-round, local back-up power, especially during winter peaks.</li>
<li>Achieve carbon neutrality by capturing CO2 affordably and reducing emissions.</li>
<li>Replace fossil gas in the existing system without major retrofits – storage and transport are simple and low risk.</li>
<li>Create headroom within net-zero targets, giving hard-to-abate industries more time to adjust at a lower cost.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://adbioresources.org/newsroom/net-zero-cost-could-be-cut-by-more-than-400-a-year-for-every-british-household/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read the full report.</a>

The Role of Green Gas in Net Zero – Report from ADBA and BMA

Future Biogas CFO, Steven Beveridge, recently spoke with NatWest Business to discuss how sustainability is not only a growing factor in corporate strategy and thinking &#8211; but also a powerful motivator in attracting and keeping talent seeking purpose-driven career opportunities.
Andy O&#8217;Hare, the bank’s Head of Natural Resources, Renewables and Utilities, says:
“The team at Future Biogas demonstrates what sustainability-focused businesses can accomplish by seizing opportunities emerging from the shift to a low-carbon economy.
“They are a prime example of how keeping a forward-looking approach and continuously adapting and evolving can position a business for lasting success.
“Future Biogas demonstrates several positive indicators of being Future Fit, including a strong focus on supply chain relationships and leveraging the rising demand for sustainability to attract and retain talent.
<blockquote>We’re very happy to partner with Future Biogas and believe other businesses can gain valuable insights from their approach to building a foundation for long-term success.</blockquote>
The full interview is available below:
<a href="https://www.natwest.com/business/insights/sector-trends/natural-resources-renewables-and-utilities/future-biogas-sustainable-growth-in-the-renewable-energy-sector.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Read the interview</a>.

NatWest Business Interviews Future Biogas CFO Steven Beveridge

Vulcan Renewables’ community fund recently contributed towards a community seed swap initiative in the village of Hatfield Woodhouse.
<h3>Seeding an idea</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3963 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/future-biogas-news-resources-communities-seed-swap-in-hatfield-woodhouse-image-one.jpg" alt="Seed swap in Hatfield Woodhouse | Communities | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="1004" />
Led by the local community, this project involves a curated ‘hut’ in which residents share veg, shrubs and bulbs that have been grown in local gardens.
The Hatfield Woodhouse Events Group (HWEG) are a community based group that promote local businesses and bring the community of Hatfield Woodhouse together through a variety of events and schemes.
One of the most recent initiatives launched by the HWEG is the provision of a ‘Community Seed Swap Hut’ that is centrally located in the village, on the Hatfield Woodhouse Methodist Chapel grounds. The hut was designed and installed in the summer of 2024, with the official opening on Monday 16th September 2024.
The hut has empowered local residents to exchange surplus vegetables, often which have been grown in local gardens. Furthermore, decorative bulbs and display flowers are also available for those looking to enhance the colour in their gardens. This project is closely aligned with the environmental and community values of Vulcan Renewables and Future Biogas. The seed hut project was part of a larger funding effort of £2,000, which also included a contribution to refurbishing the Hatfield Woodhouse Methodist Chapel floor, a vital venue for community interaction and regular host of local events.
Discussing the scheme, Julie Parker of the Hatfield Woodhouse Events Group Committee said &#8220;The seed hut is well stocked with lots of varieties of bulbs, seeds and plants. It is good to see that many residents have already taken advantage of what is available.

Seed swap in Hatfield Woodhouse

On November 12th, 2024, Future Biogas, Cadent Gas, and the Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology (REA) hosted a panel discussion at the House of Commons.
<h3>Proven, Scalable, Unsubsidised</h3>
The event focused on decarbonising the UK gas grid without government subsidy and its role in achieving net zero and improving energy security. Over 50 people attended from a range of backgrounds, from politicians and civil servants, to press, trade bodies, academics, and industry professionals. The event highlighted the significance of biomethane in decarbonising the UK economy, especially in sectors with high heat demand and limited electrification options.
Event Outline
The event opened with an introduction by Rachael Burford, Chief Political Editor for the Evening Standard, emphasising the importance of gas in the UK energy mix and highlighting the lack of political focus on greening the gas grid. This followed by some introductory statements from the panellists, which included:
<ul>
<li>Bill Esterson MP, Chairman of the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee and the event sponsor.</li>
<li>The Lord Redesdale, political leader in UK energy decarbonisation.</li>
<li>Howard Forster, COO of Cadent Gas.</li>
<li>Philipp Lukas, CEO of Future Biogas.</li>
</ul>
The introductory statements highlighted the importance of biomethane in supporting the UK’s net zero ambitions: readily recognising its proven history both in the UK and internationally for decarbonising heat demand at scale. The Lord Redesdale emphasised that biomethane is here and ready to deliver.
The conversation quickly moved onto discussing the unsubsidised model and how this works for AstraZeneca. Philipp Lukas highlighted the journey that AstraZeneca went on reducing their energy requirements before looking to purchase biomethane. The importance of unsubsidised being that they cannot be accused of using taxpayer money to fund their decarbonisation.
Following this, the wider attributes of a strong anaerobic digestion industry were discussed. Decarbonisation of agriculture, improving UK soil quality and biodiversity, and creating robust carbon removals were all highlighted as key benefits. Audience member Jonathon Scurlock of the National Farmers Union (NFU) made the point that this model is paramount to ensuring economic and environmental stability in UK agriculture.
Conclusions
The overall response was positive, a call to action to make critical policy changes and establish the UK as a global leader in renewable gas production. The event will provide valuable insights for the Energy Security and Net Zero Committee and Future Biogas will be following up with event attendees to invite them to visit the first unsubsidised site, Moor Bioenergy, when it is operational in the new year.

House of Commons Event: Greening the Gas Grid without Subsidy

Transitioning from the armed forces back into civilian life and forging a new career can be daunting. The unique challenges and nature of the military inevitably creates an atmosphere and a camaraderie difficult to replicate in any other career path.
<h3>Making a change</h3>
Alex Oaks recently joined Future Biogas as a Site Operator, following 15 years of service in the Royal Navy.
Alex was experiencing uncertainty when he made his decision to make a change without a clear direction in mind. But there was also a driving force in the career change. As a father of two, Alex was determined to find a role that allowed him to spend more time with his family without the required overseas or long-distance deployments.
<blockquote>I took a leap of faith and powered through with determination to make it work for me and my family. I wanted to continue to be someone they could be proud of and that I could support them in return.</blockquote>
The transition back into civilian life can be made easier when you spend time with people that have shared experiences – sometimes a challenge for those from a military background. Alex identified this very early on when getting to know his new colleagues.
“I&#8217;ve discovered a big presence of ex-military colleagues within Future Biogas, I&#8217;ve found it totally refreshing, just simply talking about situations civilians would never understand.
Good times, bad times, nights out in foreign ports or even struggles of being away.
I&#8217;ve discovered personally that simple things of talking with like-minded people can help no end mentally and physically.”
<h3>A new beginning</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3840 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-insights-research-transitioning-from-the-royal-navy-plotting-a-course-image-one.jpg" alt="Transitioning from the Royal Navy: Plotting a Course | Insights &amp; Research | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="1024" />
Discussing whether any of the attributes that allow someone to succeed in military life extend to his new career, he said:
<blockquote>I think there’s a grit and a sense of ‘cracking on’ with whatever task needs doing, not being afraid to put a shift in and following procedure that is comparable. It’s never going to be the same obviously, but there’s elements of the work ethic and contributing to a team effort.</blockquote>
After joining Future Biogas Alex spent his first few weeks completing the necessary training and courses. His on-site time following this has been spent at Grange Farm Energy in Lincolnshire and Alex will soon be gaining some experience at nearby Heath Farm Energy. He will then eventually join the team at Moor Bioenergy, the UKs first unsubsidised biomethane site opening in 2025.
On his prospects in his new role, Alex said:
“I&#8217;ve never felt more positive! I&#8217;ve found friendship, I feel valued as an employee and not to mention like-minded colleagues. I&#8217;ve spent nearly 2 years feeling lost and out of place but I&#8217;m finally there and that&#8217;s thanks to Future Biogas.”
If you&#8217;re interested in learning more about career opportunities at Future Biogas. Please visit our <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/about-us/careers/">Careers page</a>.

Transitioning from the Royal Navy: Plotting a Course

In 2024, Future Biogas partnered with The Country Trust, a leading national education charity that empowers disadvantaged children through food, farming and countryside experiences. We have renewed this partnership for 2025.
<h3>Food, farming and renewable energy</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4034 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-communities-future-biogas-and-the-country-trust-image-one.jpg" alt="Future Biogas and the Country Trust | Communities | News &amp; Research | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
The 2024 campaign consisted of educational farm visits just 5 minutes away from The Future Biogas plant Merlin Renewables in Lincolnshire.
Activities were based on a range of food, farming and renewable energy topics, focusing on how these topics overlap. Many pupils learned for the first time that rotationally grown crops can be used to sustainably produce biogas and food.
A key learning from the sessions was that managed sustainably, land can play multiple roles and address multiple environmental issues. Our food production, energy consumption and climate ambitions are inextricably linked.
The days on farm included a unique soil science activity called <a href="https://www.countrytrust.org.uk/plantyourpants" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Plant your Pants</a> that demonstrated the impact digestate from AD can have on soil health (demonstrating microorganism activity on cotton, or lack thereof). Testing areas treated with digestate over a period, and comparing with other, untreated areas. The logic being that areas of land that have had organic matter applied repeatedly over time should generically be richer in biodiversity than those similar tracts of land that haven&#8217;t.
In a year of unusually high rainfall, this was also an opportunity to learn how that impacts soil and the yields of the crops that are grown. This activity taught also pupils about the potential for soil to sequester carbon more broadly, which tied into the climate change topics the children were covering in school. The element of anaerobic digestion contributing to a circular economy was a key learning point.
Other activities included:
<ul>
<li>Seed planting</li>
<li>Meeting animals on the farm</li>
<li>Looking at soil in a microscope</li>
<li>Comparing the structure of sandy soil vs clay</li>
<li>Examining and learning about different types of rocks</li>
<li>Examining how cover crops and their root systems helped the soil</li>
</ul>
183 children from four different primary schools took part in the visits over the course of 2024; The average free school meal percentage of the schools in these areas is 34%, with the national average being 25%.
A teacher from a visiting school said of one of the visits, “This was a wonderful day for our children, some of whom would not have the opportunity to visit a farm normally. Many of the children, especially those who struggle in the classroom, shine in environments like this.”

Future Biogas and the Country Trust

<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3853 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-insights-research-philipp-lukas-joins-estate-matters-podcast-top-1.jpg" alt="Philipp Lukas Joins Estate Matters Podcast | Insights &amp; Research | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="507" />
Future Biogas CEO Philipp Lukas recently joined the <a href="https://www.korpr.co.uk/news-feed/estate-matters-podcast-launch" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Estate Matters podcast</a> to discuss the history of the business, partnering with landowners on renewable energy projects and how the team are currently rolling out Project Carbon Harvest.
Also covered in the discussion was how farmers and landowners can and should communicate the positive role they&#8217;re having in the energy transition.
You can listen to the full episode <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/1AupiNCUv1y6AIXxemW3zI?si=8b5d3e2d28aa4a77" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.

Philipp Lukas Joins Estate Matters Podcast

Future Biogas announces that its majority owner, <a href="https://www.3i-infrastructure.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">3i Infrastructure plc</a> (“3i Infrastructure”) has signed an agreement to syndicate c.23% of its stake in Future Biogas to <a href="https://www.rwe.com/en/?" target="_blank" rel="noopener">RWE Energy Transition Investments</a> (“RWE”), an investment vehicle of RWE Supply &amp; Trading GmbH, the energy trading arm of global renewable energy company RWE AG. Completion took place on 27 September 2024.
Future Biogas is one of the largest anaerobic digestion (“AD”) plant developers and operators in the UK. Since 3i Infrastructure’s investment in 2023, the company has successfully transitioned from being a third-party plant operator to an asset owner and developer; most recently announcing an acquisition of 51% of a portfolio of six AD facilities from JLEN Environmental Assets Group Limited in August 2024.
Given RWE’s far-reaching experience in the broader energy industry, their investment provides support to the company’s strategy and highlights the potential of the platform following the <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/news-resource/future-biogas-acquires-portfolio-of-six-anaerobic-digestion-facilities/">JLEN acquisition</a>. An RWE representative will join the Future Biogas board of directors.
The proceeds will be used to repay 3i Infrastructure’s funding of the aforementioned acquisition. The remaining funds will stay in Future Biogas which continues to see a strong pipeline of future growth opportunities.
Scott Moseley and Bernardo Sottomayor, Managing Partners and Co-Heads of European Infrastructure, 3i Investments plc, Investment Manager of the Company, commented:
“Future Biogas is a key enabler of the energy transition for UK corporates looking to decarbonise. We are excited by the rapid progress the business has made since our initial investment 18 months ago and believe that this investment by RWE Energy Transition Investments endorses the strategy that management are pursuing.”
“We are thrilled to partner with 3iN and support Future Biogas in becoming the UK’s top biomethane producer” said Costas Papamantellos, Managing Director &amp; Head of RWE Energy Transition Investments. “We believe that Future Biogas has the in-house expertise to deliver its pipeline of unsubsidized AD plants and reduce the carbon footprint of industrial end-users. ”
-ENDS-
<h3>Notes to editors:</h3>
3i Infrastructure plc
3i Infrastructure plc is a Jersey-incorporated, closed-ended investment company, an approved UK Investment Trust, listed on the London Stock Exchange and regulated by the Jersey Financial Services Commission. The Company’s purpose is to invest responsibly in infrastructure, delivering long-term sustainable returns to shareholders and having a positive influence on its portfolio companies and their stakeholders.
3i Investments plc, a wholly-owned subsidiary of 3i Group plc, is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority and is the investment manager of 3i Infrastructure plc.
RWE Energy Transition Investments
RWE Energy Transition Investments is an investment vehicle of RWE Supply &amp; Trading GmbH with a mandate to manage a diverse portfolio of Private Equity type financial investments in companies and assets that support the Energy Transition. RWE Supply &amp; Trading GmbH is a wholly owned subsidiary of RWE AG, an international energy company leading the way to a green energy world. With an extensive investment and growth strategy, the company will expand its green generation capacity to 50 gigawatts internationally by 2030 by investing more than €50 billion gross for this purpose. RWE employs around 19,000 people worldwide and has a clear target: to get to net zero by 2040. Further information is available at <a href="https://www.rwe.com/en/?" target="_blank" rel="noopener">www.rwe.com</a>

Future Biogas announces an investment from RWE Energy Transition Investments

Future Biogas recently published an open letter to Ed Miliband, newly appointed Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero. While we commend the new government&#8217;s stated ambition to turn the UK into a clean energy superpower, we believe that more attention needs to be placed on how to decarbonise the UK&#8217;s unavoidable gas demand. The UK currently consumes three times more gas than electricity by energy content. We believe biomethane produced via AD to be a proven and scalable solution to gas decarbonisation – while also presenting a key opportunity to deliver permanent GHG removals. We, therefore, encourage Labour to support the UK’s growing biomethane BECCS industry by: &#8211; Incorporating biomethane into Labour’s clean energy strategy &#8211; Enabling biomethane plants to access the UK’s carbon storage facilities.
<h3>An Open Letter</h3>
Dear Secretary of State,
Congratulations on the landslide victory and on your new Cabinet post – we are delighted to see you back at the helm. We are looking forward to policy which can get the UK’s Net Zero target back on track, attracting new inward investment and growth.
Future Biogas strongly supports Labour’s vision of turning the UK into a Clean Energy Superpower. However, this vision focuses predominantly on the decarbonisation of electricity. Yet, considering the UK consumes three times more gas than electricity by energy contenti, a greater focus on the gas system is essential.
Today, the UK is the third largest producer of biomethane in Europe, generating over 6 TWh per year. However, by unlocking new feedstocks, we believe that the AD industry could produce over 100 TWh per year of biomethane – a proven and scalable solution to gas decarbonisation – while also presenting a key opportunity to deliver permanent GHG removals. We, therefore, encourage Labour to support the UK’s growing biomethane BECCS industry by:
Incorporating biomethane into Labour’s clean energy strategy
Enabling biomethane plants to access the UK’s carbon storage facilities.
Increasingly, companies are seeking biomethane to cut their Scope 1 emissions. In many cases, electrification and hydrogen are not economically or practically feasible.
Last year, AstraZeneca signed a 15-year agreement with Future Biogas to supply unsubsidised biomethane, cutting their Scope 1 emissionsii. This deal demonstrates how the biomethane industry is breaking away government subsidies, saving the Government money, while delivering truly additional green gas. Being unsubsidised, taxpayers need not foot the bill for industrial decarbonisation.
We look forward to engaging with you and your new team at DESNZ. If you and the team would like to visit an AD plant in action, we would be delighted to host such a visit. Likewise, we can also come into Westminster to meet you if that is more convenient. Yours sincerely,
Philipp Lukas
CEO, Future Biogas

Making Britain a Biomethane Superpower

<h3>A Marathon Endeavour!</h3>
This Saturday an intrepid team from Future Biogas completed the Moonwalk. This was a marathon-length route of our own design, plotted between Grange Farm Energy and Merlin Renewables.
While there are still some remaining aches and pains, the team are incredibly proud to have raised over £17,000 for Walk the Walk Worldwide and the valuable work they do aiding Cancer Research and related services.
Beyond the walking participants, a big thank you also to Michael Jarmuz, Sam Illingworth and St John Ambulance for the support they provided the team with on the day.
It is still possible to sponsor the team online here.

Future Biogas Completes the Moonwalk

In line with launching the UK’s first unsubsidised biomethane project, we decided it was time to build a new website that was more representative of our business and provided more detail the on the products and services we offer.
<h3>The journey</h3>
We were conscious that the construction of our new website was an area where we could better represent our commitment to sustainability. When it comes to carbon emissions, your personal or company website is perhaps not on your radar as somewhere you can make a reduction.
While each website individually can be thought of as a relatively small emission in the grand scheme of things, when combined, our digital ecosystems become an area of concern.
As of June 2023, it is believed there were over 201,898,446 active websites, with a new website being launched every three seconds. Only a tiny fraction of these sites are built with low carbon design and development principles in mind.
The internet now consumes more electricity than the entirety of the United Kingdom.
Even many of the common digital platforms, CMS providers and end-to-end website providers (the common gateways for website creators) have not been built with carbon efficiency in mind as a primary consideration.
Similar to how we as individuals must take responsibility for our carbon footprints and make responsible adjustments where appropriate, so too do we at Future Biogas believe it is the responsibility of businesses to do the same.
When you consider somewhere around 34% of the world’s population (Statista) still don’t have access to the internet, it becomes clear that this is still a major potential growth area when it comes to global emissions. As with many environmental considerations &#8211; we have reached a critical point to influence the future impact that our digital world will have.
When selecting a partner to build our new website, we opted to work with Tempest, a newly formed specialist low carbon design and development studio.
We hope our website can help show how visually impressive low carbon design and build can be. With a refined look in addition to an upgraded navigation, we believe our new site will better serve our website users.
A secondary benefit of a website being low carbon is the associated uptick in performance achieved by removing a lot of the unnecessary bloat and inefficient backend processes that occur on many websites.
We’re proud to be completely transparent in terms of how much CO2 is emitted per visit to this site, and despite a huge rise in the number of pages, available information and amount of content. We’ve reduced our CO2 emissions from ~5.98g of CO2 per visit, down to ~0.04g of CO2 per visit, which is assessed to be in the top 4% of websites globally.
We encourage you to check your own website at <a href="https://www.websitecarbon.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.websitecarbon.com/</a> to see where you might be able to implement changes.

Future Biogas launches new website

<h3>Future Biogas acquires portfolio of six anaerobic digestion facilities</h3>
3i Infrastructure plc (“3i Infrastructure” or “the Company”) today announces that Future Biogas, one of the largest anaerobic digestion (“AD”) plant developers and biogas producers in the UK, has agreed to acquire 51% of a portfolio of six gas-to-grid AD facilities, with a combined gas output of 333GWh, from JLEN Environmental Assets Group Limited (“JLEN”) for £68.1 million. £30 million will be funded by 3i Infrastructure, with the balance funded by Future Biogas from committed debt facilities.
Future Biogas is very familiar with these assets, having originally developed five of the six plants as well as operating each for an average of eight years. As majority owner, Future Biogas will be able to deliver investment-led enhancements already identified by the management team. The acquisition also provides Future Biogas with immediate scale, which we expect will be attractive to potential acquirers when we decide to exit.
In line with our original investment thesis, since 3i Infrastructure first invested in Future Biogas in 2023, the company has successfully transitioned from being a third-party plant operator to an asset owner and developer, with a 1.3TWh pipeline of new sites.
Construction has also begun at the Gonerby Moor site, which, as previously announced, will operate on an unsubsidised basis under a 15-year green gas offtake agreement with AstraZeneca.
Philipp Lukas, Chief Executive Officer of Future Biogas, said: “We are very pleased to be acquiring a stake in this portfolio of anaerobic digestion plants from JLEN, who we will continue to work with constructively. We know the assets well having developed them and managed them for an average of eight years. The transaction is a key step in building a scalable AD platform under Future Biogas, enabling us to upgrade the plant portfolio and extend their lives beyond the current RHI subsidy. Critically, it provides a means to continue to deliver under our Project Carbon Harvest mission to generate and supply green gas, helping decarbonise UK farms and industry.”
Scott Moseley and Bernardo Sottomayor, Managing Partners and Co-Heads of European Infrastructure, 3i Investments plc, Investment Manager of the Company, said: “It is increasingly clear that biogas will play an important role within the UK’s energy transition. This acquisition represents an important milestone, clearly establishing Future Biogas as the leading independent owner and developer of AD plants in the UK.”
<h3>For information, please contact:</h3>
Thomas Fodor – Investment enquiries
Tel: +44 207 975 3469
Email: thomas.fodor@3i.com
Elmley de la Cour – Media enquiries
Tel: +44 207 975 3023
Email: elmley.delacour@3i.com
Notes to editors:
3i Infrastructure plc
3i Infrastructure plc is a Jersey-incorporated, closed-ended investment company, an approved UK Investment Trust, listed on the London Stock Exchange and regulated by the Jersey Financial Services Commission. The Company’s purpose is to invest responsibly in infrastructure, delivering long-term sustainable returns to shareholders and having a positive influence on its portfolio companies and their stakeholders.
3i Investments plc, a wholly-owned subsidiary of 3i Group plc, is authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Conduct Authority and is the investment manager of 3i Infrastructure plc.

Future Biogas acquires portfolio of six anaerobic digestion facilities

Future Biogas is proud to have supported the Cruise4Life project.
<h3>Promoting the exchange between families and doctors</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3770 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-supports-cruise4life-image-one.jpg" alt="Future Biogas supports Cruise4Life | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
The project is run by PCH2cure, a charity that aims to raise understanding, find therapies and improve the quality of life for children with Pontocerebellar hypoplasia type 2 (PCH2).
PCH2 is an extremely rare genetic disease for which no treatment is yet available.
The Cruise4Life is a biannual meeting that aims to show that children with severe multiple disabilities can participate in ‘normal’ life and, together with their families, are an important part of society.
The trip brings together children diagnosed with PCH2, their families and two guests (often caregivers, teachers or doctors) as a community to foster understanding and provide advice, particularly for new parents. The cruise also provides an opportunity for research and scientific work to both improve the quality of life for these children today, but to also ultimately, find a cure for the disease.
To find out more about the project you can visit the below websites:
https://www.pch2cure.org/en/
https://cruise4life.de/ (German Language)
To gain an insight into what a trip like this means to the parents and children involved, Markus Ott is keeping a fantastic live blog of the trip with his son Philipp and their family.
https://www.polarsteps.com/MarkusOtt23/12756583-cruise4life?s=2e3857d4-57a0-4852-a0f2-82cddb4d71e8

Future Biogas supports Cruise4Life

We often receive the same questions from potential corporate partners. For that reason we&#8217;ve brought together some of the most frequently asked questions with our responses.
<h3>How do Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) or Greenhouse Gas Removal (GGR) certificates work and why are these good for my business?</h3>
Within your Net Zero strategy, there will be some emissions that cannot be reduced or replaced.
For these emissions you can purchase CDR or GGR certificates to offset against those emissions.
Certificates from engineered solutions such as the geological storage of CO2, as we are doing, are a low-risk investment to make the claim that you have reached net-zero. Direct Air Carbon Capture (DACC) is an alternative engineered solution.
When you purchase a carbon removal certificate, you are paying for the operation of capturing and sequestering of the certificated amount of CO2. By paying for that entire process you demonstrate total additionality, which means you have paid for the removal and no public sector or other funding was used in trying to achieve your Net Zero goal.
This is important as the quality of carbon removals will vary between projects. Any projects that use government subsidy will not be able to demonstrate this level of additionality.
The value of this measurable and verifiable additionality is the associated integrity. Low integrity solutions run a high risk of being labelled as &#8216;greenwashing&#8217; and undermining your entire strategy.
When you purchase a CDR or GGR certificate, you take ownership of that carbon that has been removed and the certificate is effectively retired against your emissions inventory. It is at this point when the emissions have been offset.
<h3>Can I purchase biogenic CO2 for utilisation rather than removal certificates?</h3>
Our initial plants will be capturing biogenic CO2 before geological storage facilities come online. We welcome conversations on utilisation enquiries.
<h3>Can I use your Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) or Greenhouse Gas Removal (GGR) certificates for the UK ETS? What about the EU ETS?</h3>
DESNZ confirm that they intend to incorporate GGRs into the UK ETS, to stimulate demand; here, obligated companies will be able to purchase removal credits to offset emissions.
Further details regarding removals’ inclusion within the UK ETS are set to be published within the UK ETS’ consultation response.
The UK ETS authority has stated its intention to update the Scheme to enable obligated companies to meet emission targets using through negative emission technologies, namely BECCS and DACS. Its addition aims to bolster the demand for removals and thus bring down the cost of delivery.
Due to the complexity of developing new standards and criteria necessary to establish quality removals, policy development will likely take several years – and so the UK ETS is unlikely to include removals until the late-2020s.
<h3>What standards or certifications are you using for CDR / GGR?</h3>
We are actively contributing to the development and refinement of <a href="https://verra.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Verra&#8217;s</a> Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) BECCS methodology through our involvement with their CCS+ initiative. This is dedicated to developing a quality assurance framework for Verra for carbon removal.
We are also actively collaborating with <a href="https://isometric.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Isometric</a> and <a href="https://puro.earth/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Puro.Earth</a> as alternative carbon removal registry options.
Transparency, integrity and accountability is accomplished through the verification and certification of net Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) in accordance with an internationally recognised carbon standard (VCS). The process involves independent auditors who validate and verify the CDR achieved, ensuring credibility and enhancing the usability of the issued credits.
The GHG accounting methodology for the carbon removal certificates is being developed by the CCS+ initiative. The CCS+ initiative comprises a dedicated team working to create a framework methodology and its associated modules for CO2 capture, transport, and storage. This development process adheres to the stringent requirements established by the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) for methodology development. To ensure inclusivity, the methodology undergoes a public comment period, allowing for feedback and suggestions to be addressed by the developer. Furthermore, an independent auditor, acting as a validation and verification body, conducts a thorough assessment. These approval steps are essential in ensuring the high quality and robustness of the methodology, which is crucial for the robustness of the issued credits.
Return to the <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/green-gas/biogenic-carbon-dioxide/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">biogenic CO2 page</a>.

Biogenic CO₂ FAQ

A team from Future Biogas has signed up for the 7th September Moonwalk.
<h3>Raising money and awareness</h3>
The event is one of many organised by <a href="https://walkthewalk.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Walk the Walk Worldwide</a>, a charity that took its first steps (pun intended) in 1996 when 13 women power walked the New York City Marathon in their bras to raise money and awareness for breast cancer.
Since that date, the charity has gone on to raise in excess of £139 million for breast and other cancers. From those initial 13 women, over half a million people have since taken part.
The Future Biogas team will be following a route of our own design through rural Lincolnshire that departs from Grange Farm Energy, heads North to Merlin Renewables and then returns back again.
In preparation for the event, we’re growing a dedicated maize field promoting the event from our start and finish point at Grange Farm Energy. We’ll post an updated photo once the crop is fully-grown!
If you’d like to sponsor the team, you can find our team page <a href="https://giving.give-star.com/microsite/walkthewalk/themoonwalkscotland2024/team/3ef795fc-fd51-4020-9e88-7e182034941f" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.

Future Biogas taking part in the Moonwalk

We often receive the same questions from potential corporate partners. For that reason we&#8217;ve brought together some of the most frequently asked questions with our responses
<h3>Where does your offering fit within an overall Net Zero strategy?</h3>
We believe most businesses will go through a similar process when looking to build a strategy to reduce their emissions.
Elimination and Reduction &#8211; The first considerations should be where existing emissions can be reduced or avoided. Firstly through reduced energy consumption, and secondly through increased energy efficiency.
Substitution &#8211; Once a business has eliminated and reduced emissions where possible, they can then look at where alternative methods or energy sources could replace what is currently in place. An example would be using unsubsidised biomethane to replace fossil-based methane or for industrial processes with a high heat demand. Another example might be through electrification.
Mitigation &#8211; After a business has eliminated, reduced and substituted, they can look at mitigating any remaining emissions. Given the varying quality and transparency of the options available in this market, businesses are best advised to look at high integrity solutions that involve the active removal of atmospheric CO2. This is where our carbon removal solutions can be utilised.
<h3>What is anaerobic digestion?</h3>
Anaerobic digestion is simply when organic materials are broken down by microbes in the absence of oxygen. This is a process that occurs naturally such as in the stomach of a cow.
This is covered in more detail in our dedicated page.
<h3>How do I use &#8216;Green Gas&#8217; to reduce my Scope 1 emissions?</h3>
Scope 1 emissions are those that occur from sources that are directly owned or controlled by the company. It includes emission from combustion, process emission and fugitive emissions.
Biomethane delivered physically, or virtually via the gas grid, can be used to cut Scope 1 emissions. However, for the latter, the GHG Protocol (GHGP) is currently reviewing the role of market-based reporting across all Scopes, which includes the ability of companies to report the use of biomethane extracted from a shared gas network. Nevertheless, both the UK Government and European Commission are actively developing policy which uses market-based reporting to support a growing biomethane sector.
The UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) represents the country&#8217;s primary compliance market. However, under this scheme, biomethane can only be used to reduce your emissions if consumed on a physical basis i.e. delivered by a direct and dedicated pipeline. However, UK ETS Authority has stated its intention to permit companies to report emissions savings delivered from biomethane extracted from the grid.
Within the voluntary market, the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHGP) represents the leading reporting framework used worldwide. This framework is administered by the World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD), and its guidance is largely followed by the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi).
The GHGP is in the process of reviewing the market-based reporting across all scopes. This includes the ability of companies to report Scope 1 emission savings from the use of biomethane extracted from a grid. Biomethane operators across Europe are collectively recommending its inclusion.
<h3>Why is it important to differentiate between subsidised and unsubsidised biomethane?</h3>
With unsubsidised energy, the end user is covering the full cost of energy generation. Consequently, they may claim full responsibility for the associated carbon savings. This energy, and its carbons savings are considered &#8216;additional&#8217; &#8211; i.e. they would not have been delivered without the transaction.
By comparison, subsidised energy is funded, in part, by taxpayers. Government subsidy schemes may fund production regardless of specific end users. Consequently, there are growing concerns of greenwashing, where private companies are claiming to decarbonise by using renewable energy that was actually funded with public money, and so their contribution to, or their responsibility for those carbon savings will only ever be viewed as partial at best.
<h3>Shouldn’t we be moving away from relying on gas?</h3>
Today, the UK uses around 1,000 TWh of fossil natural gas per year. To deliver Net Zero, this demand must be cut significantly. Renewable electricity technologies (wind, solar, etc) can help replace gas-fired generators, low grade heat can be electrified, gas exports can be limited, and efficiencies can be improved across operations.
However, certain gas uses will be unavoidable – they cannot be reduced or replaced. This might include processes which require intense heat, require gas’ chemistry, and/or relies on fixed infrastructure. The UK’s unavoidable gas demand is modelled to be between 85 and 250 TWh.
Green gas is essential to decarbonise this unavoidable gas demand. Biomethane is the only solution which is currently produced and transported across the UK at scale.
The gas grid acts like a country-wide battery – storing energy within its molecules and delivering it when and where required. Consequently, the grid acts to balance our energy network, offering flexibility to its users. It can be used to heat homes, fuel industries, or generate baseload electricity. As the UK increasingly depends on intermittent electricity generators, such as wind and solar, the gas grid can help ensure power supply when the wind isn’t blowing and the sun isn’t shining.
<h3>Have other businesses done this?</h3>
While our project is new, we have a landmark partnership with AstraZeneca, detailed here.
<h3>Why do you use energy crop feedstock vs waste?</h3>
Our model focuses on three pillars: Food, Fuel &amp; Farm Decarbonisation. By working with farmers already looking to employ sustainable methodologies and by using break crops within food rotations, we believe our model is very sustainable.
While we believe waste-based AD is an important part of the sector, this is reliant on the waste being truly unavoidable. The reduction of waste is even better than recycling it. Once waste becomes a commodity, its production can potentially become incentivised.
For biogas to fulfil it&#8217;s full potential in terms of its overall contribution to decarbonising the gas grid, a wide variety of feedstocks will be required. These include unavoidable food and agricultural wastes, in addition to rotational crops.
<h3>Shouldn&#8217;t crops be grown for food?</h3>
We believe the &#8216;food vs fuel&#8217; debate can reinforce a misconception that land always serves a single purpose (eg. a field can either grow food crops or energy crops). The reality is that each field&#8217;s output can change from season to season, delivering a broad range of socio-economic and environmental benefits.
Our approach relies on a move away from conventional, intensive farming. Using crop rotations, AD can be sustainably integrated into agricultural systems, with minimal impact on total food production. Break crops can be fed to AD, providing a source of home-grown, low-carbon energy, benefiting energy security and decarbonisation efforts.
Spreading the resultant digestate (AD&#8217;s organic biofertiliser that is the solid and liquid feedstock remnants) back to land can help replenish soil carbon and displace demand for carbon-intensive artificial fertilisers.
When compared to other renewable energy sources in terms of land usage change (such as solar farms for example) AD is far easier to fit within and in partnership with existing food production models.
We believe our model delivers food AND fuel.
<h3>Is there a minimum gas demand you work with?</h3>
We recognise that not all businesses have huge gas demand and we believe this shouldn’t exclude you from accessing this method of decarbonisation.
To help us bring a more accessible offering to market, we have partnered with ENGIE to offer smaller increment offerings. In minimum increments of approximately 10GWh, we can divide the output of an AD plant to meet your demand.
<h3>Why should I sign up now rather than waiting?</h3>
Project Carbon Harvest is the UK&#8217;s first unsubsidised biomethane project. The availability of unsubsidised gas offtake is limited to the volume of gas produced by our new generation of AD plants.
While we are in the planning stages of a number of new sites, and will continue to plan new sites in the coming years, signing up now ensures your gas demand can be covered by those sites already in planning.
The planning and construction timeline for new sites can be influenced by many factors. By signing up now, this timeline from your perspective can be significantly reduced. Particularly if (as we expect) changes in UK ETS create sudden boom in demand for unsubsidised biomethane in the near future.
Return to the <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/green-gas/">Green Gas Page</a>.

Green Gas FAQs

Future Biogas has formed an agricultural board made up of leading academics and industry experts to provide farming, scientific and market expertise to help deliver the UK’s first subsidy-free renewable energy from sustainable and regenerative agriculture – “Project Carbon Harvest”.
<h3>Board Purpose</h3>
The board will provide independent expertise, critique, and corroboration for the project, focusing on a broad range of subjects including sustainable farming, scientific research and policy. This will ensure a wide spectrum of perspectives and specialisms are considered in the scrutiny applied to the project’s methodology, underlying science and practical application.
The objectives of the board are to:
<ul>
<li>Provide independent expertise, scrutiny and corroboration</li>
<li>Support bioenergy crop production as part of diverse crop rotations</li>
<li>Engage with authorities to ensure progression and delivery of the project</li>
<li>Advise Future Biogas on specific subjects</li>
<li>Translate and filter high level theory into tangible outputs</li>
<li>Provide a forum for knowledge transfer, bridging R&amp;D and practical application</li>
</ul>
The board is made up of:
<h3>Professor Tina Barsby OBE &#8211; Board Chair</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3779 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-launches-independent-agricultural-board-image-one.jpg" alt="Tina Barsby OBE | Future Biogas Launches Independent Agricultural Board | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Professor Tina Barsby is the Chair of the Agricultural Advisory Board of Future Biogas, having previously been a Non-executive Director. Tina is committed to supporting sustainable and profitable agriculture, and from her background in genetics has developed a broad understanding of farming and the related industry, having worked for and with farmers and landowners for the past four decades.
She is internationally recognised for scientific achievements in crop science and is Honorary Professor of Agricultural Botany at the University of Cambridge. Following 18 years with the plant breeder Limagrain, in 2008 she became the first female CEO of NIAB, the National Institute of Agricultural Botany, from which she retired in 2021. She is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology, and a Fellow of the Royal Agricultural Society of England.
Tina was awarded the OBE in the 2018 New Year’s Honours List for services to agricultural science and biotechnology.
In addition to her role with Future Biogas, Tina chairs the Farm Data Principles Ltd. and she is employed part-time as Agricultural and Scientific Advisor to the G’s group of companies. She has extensive experience as a Trustee and is currently a member of the John Innes Foundation and the Lawes Trust.
<h3>Ben Abell &#8211; Head of Agronomy – Dyson Farming</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3780 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-launches-independent-agricultural-board-image-two.jpg" alt="Ben Abell | Future Biogas Launches Independent Agricultural Board | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Ben is the Head of Agronomy for <a href="https://dysonfarming.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Dyson Farming Ltd</a>, which as an organization is known for its innovation in food production, as well as sustainable and environmentally conscious farming, knowledge sharing and renewable energy.
Ben graduated from Harper Adams University in 2006 with a 1st Class BSc Hons. He completed his BASIS Graduate Diploma in Agronomy and Environmental Management and recently took part in the Institute of Agronomy Agricultural Management Leadership Development Programme in 2003.
<h3>Hugh Baker &#8211; Co-Owner &#8211; Hub Rural Ltd</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3781 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-launches-independent-agricultural-board-image-three.jpg" alt="Hugh Baker | Future Biogas Launches Independent Agricultural Board | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
By qualifications, Hugh is a Rural Practice surveyor [MRICS/FAAV] [Land Agent]. He is co-owner of <a href="https://www.hubrural.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Hub Rural Ltd</a>, which is based near Spalding, South Lincolnshire. The Hub team, which is now six, concentrates on delivering a range of services to clients including land agency, farm business consultancy and strategic/non-exec type input. Typical clients are usually large, complex and multi-faceted rural asset-based businesses involved in farming, food &amp; fuel production and rural diversification.
Hugh’s day job includes helping to run Hub, alongside undertaking a mixture of professional activity, but with a focus on Trustee, Chair and Non-exec roles within a number of client businesses and or their families.
<h3>Dr. Belinda Clarke &#8211; Director – Agri-TechE</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3782 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-launches-independent-agricultural-board-image-four.jpg" alt="Dr Belinda Clarke | Future Biogas Launches Independent Agricultural Board | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Belinda is driven by the belief that innovation is a vital driver for agricultural productivity, environmental sustainability and economic growth. Starting her career in research (let’s talk crop diseases, and starch production in peas and potatoes), she then developed experience at the interface between industry, innovation and government, and became determined to bring farmers, researchers and technology developers closer together to improve the efficiency of communication and understanding between them, and to accelerate the adoption of new innovations on farms.
For the last decade she has led the creation and expansion of the award-winning membership network which is <a href="https://www.agri-tech-e.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Agri-TechE</a>. With members from across the UK and internationally, Agri-TechE is one of the largest and longest-established agri-tech innovation ecosystems in Europe and in 2019 was named national Networking Group of the Year at the UK SME Business Awards.
Belinda is also a Non-Executive Director of Agrimetrics, one of the UK’s Agri-Tech Centres, and was a member of the Council of BBSRC-UKRI (2015-2021). In 2021 she was awarded the Sir Timothy Colman Prize from the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association for “outstanding leadership in the agri-tech sector”.
<h3>James Goodley &#8211; Farmer</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3783 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-launches-independent-agricultural-board-image-five.jpg" alt="James Goodley | Future Biogas Launches Independent Agricultural Board | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
James Goodley has farmed in the Stiffkey Valley in North Norfolk for the past 12 years.
Through expanded botany, reduced cultivations and allowing soil to become the driver of production, he has systematically reduced his farm’s dependency on chemical inputs.
Continuing to grow crops for both food and energy, James hopes to continue to improve the sustainability of the family farming enterprise that he owns and runs. James has grown both maize and rye for Future Biogas since the Egmere plant in North Norfolk was built and commissioned in 2013.
More recently, James has become a speaker in the sustainable agronomy sector, speaking at events such as Groundswell among others.
<h3>Dr. Julian Little &#8211; Director – Julian Little Communications</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3784 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-launches-independent-agricultural-board-image-six.jpg" alt="Dr Julian Little | Future Biogas Launches Independent Agricultural Board | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Dr Julian Little FRSB has 35+ years’ experience in plant science and agriculture and currently helps individuals and organisations improve their communications and public affairs activity, their media and political outreach confidence, and to help affect genuine management change where it is really needed.
Until 2020, Julian was Head of Communications &amp; Public Affairs for Bayer Crop Science in the UK. He worked initially in company R&amp;D as a plant and fungal biochemist both in the UK and France, moved into project management, and then into science communication. The latter involved multi-stakeholder (media, political, retailer, NGO, etc) outreach around what was then the ground-breaking work on GM field trials here in the UK, defending the company’s insecticide portfolio, and more recently on bee-friendly farming practices. A regular commentator on BBC TV and radio, as well in print media, he has also submitted written and given oral evidence to a large number of Parliamentary Select Committees.
Julian was long-term Chair of the Agricultural Biotechnology Council and headed the communications groups of both EuropaBio and CropLife UK for nearly ten years.
Today, he is working with a number of companies and organisations including public affairs at the <a href="https://www.norwichresearchpark.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Norwich Research Park</a>, leading the communications efforts at <a href="https://alphabiocontrol.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">AlphaBio Control</a>, coordinating the newly created <a href="https://farmdataprinciples.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Farm Data Principles Ltd</a>. and up to very recently, change management at the John Innes Centre. He is an active member of the agricultural advisory group for Future Biogas, the advisory group of Science for Sustainable Agriculture, and was a recent advisory panel member for Agri-TechE.
<h3>Matt Ryan &#8211; Head of Farmer Relationships – Oxbury Bank</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3785 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-launches-independent-agricultural-board-image-seven.jpg" alt="Matt Ryan | Future Biogas Launches Independent Agricultural Board | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Matt grew up on his family’s sheep &amp; arable farm near Christchurch in the South Island of New Zealand. After attending Lincoln University (NZ) attaining a Diploma in Farm Management and a B. Com in Agricultural Management he then joined ANZ bank as an Agri bank manager in 2005. Since then, Matt has run large customer portfolios and Regional Ag Banking teams for both Rabobank and ANZ Bank with specialisations in irrigation &amp; farm syndication financing across various locations in NZ, along with offshore lending projects in the Pacific Islands, SE Asia and Australia.
Matt is a current trustee for a family-owned livestock farming business and a former director of a farmer owned wool marketing, procurement and exporting business.
In Feb 2020, Matt joined <a href="https://www.oxbury.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Oxbury Bank Plc</a> as Head of Farmer Relationships and has assisted the business in gaining its banking license through to its successful launch in Feb 2021. Since then, he has put together a successful national sales force and has led the team to major lending and revenue milestones.
<h3>Oliver Scott &#8211; Farms Director</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3786 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-launches-independent-agricultural-board-image-eight.jpg" alt="OIiver Scott | Future Biogas Launches Independent Agricultural Board | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Having grown up in Wiltshire on a farm managed by his father, agriculture has always played an important and central role in Oliver’s life. Having gained a diploma in Agriculture at Lackham College and graduated from Harper Adams university with a degree in Agri Food Marketing, Oliver went on to travel and work on farms in New Zealand and Australia. Upon returning to the UK, Oliver has since managed farms at Holkham, Thelverton and latterly the Bradford Estates.
With sustainability and the environment playing an ever-increasing role in farming, Oliver has been immersed within regenerative practice in order to carefully balance margin alongside farming for the future. Oliver strives to facilitate peer-to-peer learning and encourage the younger generation in order to strengthen the agricultural industry.
As focus shifts to sustainable practice, Oliver believes that incorporating anaerobic digesters into farming systems will ultimately improve efficiency by creating renewable energy, effectively utilising all outputs and producing additional organic matter. Ultimately supporting a circular farming system.
<h3>Harley Stoddart &#8211; Head of Climate Mitigation Science – Defra</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3787 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-launches-independent-agricultural-board-image-nine.jpg" alt="Harley Stoddart | Future Biogas Launches Independent Agricultural Board | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
In his role as Head of Climate Mitigation Science for Defra, Harley provides scientific support to evidence-based net zero policy making and manages the research interests across Natural Resources: Agriculture, Forestry, Biomass, Peat; Waste, Wate Water and F-Gases.
Previously he was the lead on agricultural emissions at AHDB. Harley was also a farm surveyor, an environmental policy advisor for Defra, and a bioeconomy advisor for DECC (now DESNZ).
He is responsible for understanding policy issues affecting the land-based sectors, as well as the emissions from and mitigation potential across the sectors. Harley is a Chartered Biologist, and a Member of the Institute of Agricultural Managers.
The board met for the first time on 20th October last year and will continue to meet on a quarterly basis. Updates and key actions from the Board will continue to be posted on the Future Biogas website.
If you have any further questions about the Future Biogas agricultural board, please contact <a href="mailto:nick.whitfield@futurebiogas.com">nick.whitfield@futurebiogas.com</a>

Future Biogas Launches Independent Agricultural Board

Farm Data Principles is an independent not-for-profit group, formally known as the British Farm Data Council. The organization provides thought leadership and direction, seeking the gold standard for the British agrifood sector on standards and principles of farm data governance.
<h3>Future Biogas has been certified with Farm Data Principles.</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3798 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-news-future-biogas-certified-with-farm-data-principles-image-one.jpg" alt="Future Biogas Certified with Farm Data Principles | News | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
<a href="https://farmdataprinciples.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Farm Data Principles</a> was formed by a group of individuals from across the farming industry who believe that greater use of data can help farmers and growers in the UK to improve their productivity, resilience, profitability and sustainability. However, these opportunities are not being realized, in part, due to a lack of trust in an appropriate standard of data governance.
The organization’s certification scheme is for companies wishing to demonstrate their proficiency in this area.
You can view the list of certified organisations here:
<a href="https://farmdataprinciples.com/certifiedorganisations" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://farmdataprinciples.com/certifiedorganisations</a>

Future Biogas Certified with Farm Data Principles

Future Biogas has been awarded the Sustainability Award in the 2024 REA British Renewable Energy Awards.
<h3>Award-winning Project</h3>
Our nomination at the <a href="https://www.r-e-a.net/events/british-renewable-energy-awards-2024/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">REA Awards</a> focused on the launch of our Project Carbon Harvest initiative, the UK’s first unsubsidised biomethane project, and our work with AstraZeneca in constructing the UK’s first unsubsidised plant.
More information on the partnership between Future Biogas and AstraZeneca can be found <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/news-resource/astrazeneca-partners-with-future-biogas-to-deliver-net-zero-target/">here</a>.
We’re excited to have the work of the full team recognised in this way, and to have been able to celebrate with our partners on the night.

Future Biogas Wins Sustainability Award

Merlin Renewables’ community fund recently contributed £400 towards a wildflower planting initiative in the nearby village of Scawby. Led by around 20 dedicated volunteers from the local community, this project involved the planting of wildflowers, shrubs, flowers, and trees.
<h3>The Value of Wildflowers</h3>
97% of wildflower meadows have been lost in the UK since the 1930s due to land development and urbanisation. However, over the past two decades, wildflowers have experienced a resurgence in popularity due to their recognised environmental importance. They serve as vital habitats and provide nectar for a diverse range of pollinators including bees, butterflies and various insects, who then go on to pollinate other plants and crops. Over a third of the world’s food relies on pollination from insects. Notably, fruits like apples, strawberries and raspberries thrive through pollination, resulting in higher-quality and greater crop yields.
Scawby Parish Council’s wildflower planting initiative aimed to inspire Scawby’s residents to consider how they can actively contribute to wildlife conservation and connect with the natural environment that surrounds them. The project has not only contributed to the biodiversity of the area but also adds beauty and vibrancy to Scawby. Wildflowers, with their ability to enhance the visual appeal of the village, add a kaleidoscope of colour and diversity to the surroundings that hopefully brings joy to residents and visitors alike.
Discussing the project, Jean Chamberlain, a local resident and representative of Scawby Parish Council said “There have been and continue to be many compliments on how attractive the village looks, and the community planting was also well-recommended in the Best Kept Village competition.”

Wildflower Planting in Scawby

On Friday the 19th of April 2024 we welcomed Scampton Primary School to our Grange Farm Energy site in Lincolnshire.
<h3>Teaching the next generation</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4040 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/future-biogas-news-resources-communities-grange-farm-energy-school-trip-image-one.jpg" alt="Grange Farm Energy School Trip | Communities | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Over the past 12 months we have been working with <a href="https://www.mysquaremetre.co.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">My Square Metre</a> to enhance the biodiversity at Grange Farm through wildflower planting and habitat creation. There was an opportunity here to combine this workstream with our ongoing community engagement work, and so we contacted Scampton School regarding the potential for a visit to Grange – just a 10 minute coach trip from the school!
On the day, the site hosted the older children (years 4 – 6) in the morning session and younger children (years 1 – 3) in the afternoon. They got a site tour and also took part in educational activities such as a scavenger hunt and seed-bomb making. The biodiversity enhancement work we have completed was tied into the school curriculum, with the children continuing their learning about the importance of biodiversity and the environment. They also learned about the AD process and how crops grown in their local area are being used to create green gas.
Charlie Hebborn, Head Teach at Scampton spoke after the trip, “Thank you to everyone who arranged our visit today. It was great. Back in school we had started the day with an assembly when we talked about the importance of gas and biodiversity to enable crops to grow and feed the digester. It all came together beautifully. We will be using the visit to kick start a project our upper juniors will be doing that will be showcased at the Lincolnshire show.”
It was an extremely positive day, and pleasure for us to host the school. All the kids were interested and engaged throughout and a credit to their school – a particular highlight was being able to sit in the telehandler and then watching the site operators load the hopper and exploring the site’s wildlife area. A learning experience for FB as well as the first event of this kind that we have hosted. Thanks to everyone involved on site who helped put on a great day!

Grange Farm Energy School Trip

Future Biogas has partnered with the Country Trust, the UK’s leading national education charity connecting children from areas of high social and economic disadvantage with the land that sustains us all.
<a href="https://www.countrytrust.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Country Trust</a> believes that every child should have the opportunity to discover the connections between the food they eat, their health, and the planet.
The partnership will allow approximately 130 children attending Lincolnshire schools to experience a Country Trust Farm Discovery visit.
Children will have the chance to meet farmers, explore the countryside, and learn first-hand about food and farming.
Visits will cover a wide range of engaging topics including:
<ul>
<li>renewable energy</li>
<li>anaerobic digestion</li>
<li>animal welfare</li>
<li>barley crops</li>
<li>soil science with a fun #plantyourpants activity</li>
<li>soil layers and filtration</li>
<li>planting seeds</li>
<li>using a microscope</li>
<li>and much more</li>
</ul>
You can learn more about The Country Trust at <a href="https://www.countrytrust.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.countrytrust.org.uk/</a>

Future Biogas partners with Country Trust

Future Biogas has been highlighted as part of the UK Innovation Industries (UKII) Intelligence Report.
<h3>Highlighting UK Innovation</h3>
The <a href="https://www.ukii.uk/report/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">report</a> presents stories of pioneering companies and organisations from far and wide across UK industry sectors – from food security to space-based research, quantum computing to clean mobility, advanced manufacturing and creative production – and provides insight into the key areas of focus of visionary teams striving to find solutions to the biggest and most important challenges of our time.
Launching after seven months of research groundwork and outreach to leaders across the industry, and focusing on the cutting-edge application of science, technology, engineering and design, the UKII Intelligence Report spotlights 500 companies, across 30 categories, all sharing one mission: innovation for a better, brighter future.
“With innovation crucial to the future of the UK’s economic growth and industrial strategy, this platform has been created to enable greater visibility between industry sectors nationwide and to encourage knowledge-sharing, collaboration, investment, and the nurture of future UK workforce across emerging innovation sectors. As a global business, we understand the value of bringing innovative businesses together to collaborate and build prosperity,” said Tony Judd, Senior Director of Enterprise UKI, Verizon. At Verizon, we have a major focus on enabling cross-industry collaboration as it’s the most effective way to address some of the most complex business and societal challenges in the UK and globally. All the companies listed in the UKII have showcased true vision and are inspiring examples of what innovative companies can achieve. We hope this innovation index encourages curiosity, conversation and collaboration – and helps UK industry become the innovation powerhouse it has the potential to be.”
Lucy Johnston, founder of We Are Incandescent said “The UK is home to an incredible ecosystem of innovation and talent, across industry sectors; built on a rich heritage and focused on finding solutions to forge a better future for everyone. The new UKII mission is a first-of-its-kind platform – to encourage collaboration, investment and future workforce – and I am thrilled to be able to support the brilliance of the UK industry by launching this initiative with the generous support of Verizon Business. I look forward to building on this platform for a long time to come – this is just the beginning.”
The UKII Intelligence Report is a curated platform, compiled through wide-ranging independent research; recommendations, advice and input from industry leaders and experts; conversations and visits with 100s of companies nationwide; and through an open call for nominations from across the UK. The 500 featured companies and their wide variety of stories are presented with equal billing to provide a rich overview of the UK industry landscape, what is being achieved at the cutting edge of industry, and what the future holds.
The dynamic, visual online platform is not-for-profit and free to access. It provides a springboard to encourage greater support for the innovation ecosystem across the UK. Visit <a href="https://www.ukii.uk/report/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ukii.uk</a> for more information and to access the platform.

Future Biogas Named in UKII Intelligence Report

ISCC is a globally applicable sustainability certification system and covers all sustainable feedstocks, including agricultural and forestry biomass, biogenic wastes and residues, circular materials and renewables.
We are delighted to share the exciting news that we have recently become a proud member of the ISCC Association. ISCC, International Sustainability and Carbon Certification, is an independent multi-stakeholder initiative and leading certification system supporting sustainable, fully traceable, deforestation-free and climate-friendly supply chains. With more than 51,000 certificates issued to 9,000 System Users (e.g. farms, processing units, traders) in over 135 countries worldwide, ISCC has established itself as a key player in the further development of sustainable, climate-friendly production in the circular economy and the bioeconomy.
By joining the ISCC Association, the legally registered body responsible for the government and strategic development of ISCC, we are taking an active role in the advancement of sustainability solutions through credibility and certification in global value chains.
Our commitment to ISCC aligns with our dedication to making a positive impact through dialogue, innovation and cooperative action. As an ISCC Association Member, we look forward to contributing to the dynamic, multifaceted stakeholder dialogue to further ISCC’s high standards for sustainability certification.

Future Biogas Becomes ISCC Member

The community of Burnham Thorpe received £500 of funding towards the installation of a defibrillator in their rural village.
The prompt use of a defibrillator is crucial for increasing the chances of survival in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. For every minute that defibrillation is delayed, the likelihood of survival decreases by 7% to 10%.
This challenge is especially pronounced in rural areas, where the response time of emergency medical services is extended, and access to defibrillators is often limited. The nearest defibrillators to Burnham Thorpe were several miles away, accessible only by car, posing a significant challenge in case of emergencies.
The project was also supported by Sam Sandell, the ward councillor who also gave the project £100 through the Councillor Community grant Scheme.
The village hall committee organised a community awareness training session that took place in the hall itself. A2B training Ltd (First Aid trainers) conducted the defibrillator first aid training with 10 members of the community learning how to use the unit.
Holly Smith, speaking on behalf of the hall, explained the impact of the initiative: &#8220;It was quite enlightening for many. As well as actual CPR and defibrillator use, it covered managing emergency situations. We had a lot of individuals who work from home or are retired and might be the first person being called upon.”
This project exemplifies a community project, where a shared vision for safety and well-being translates into tangible actions.

Installing life-saving equipment in Burnham Thorpe

St Nicholas Parish church in North Norfolk successfully applied to the Egmere Energy community fund to aid with renovating the Grade II listed building.
Beyond the building works, the project also aimed to offer the community an opportunity to celebrate local heritage. The Parochial Church Council (PCC) planned several interactive activities that participants would be able to take part in.
An existing relationship with Norfolk Wildlife Trust provided the opportunity to incorporate wildlife conservation and demonstrate to visitors the church’s commitment to the preservation of local flora and fauna.
The PCC collaborated with local schools and welcomed over 70 children to the church over the course of two days. Participants were able to get involved in habitat-making with the Norfolk Wildlife Trust and historic building workshops were available, such as flint wall building and stone carving.
The two-day event was a huge success and well received in the community. One visitor, Alison Henry, commented “I was particularly interested to take part in the stonemasonry and flint wall building workshop. Hopefully this will raise awareness of traditional building skills. It was good to see representatives from the Norfolk Wildlife Trust, and the interest being shown by visitors in making hedgehog highways.”
Egmere Energy Ltd are proud to have played a small part in this unique event and look forward to this becoming an annual feature of community life in Wells.

Celebrating local heritage in Wells-next-the-sea

The Friends of Quarry Park (FQP) are a community-based group that was formed in 1996 and currently has over 20 volunteers. They are committed to keeping Quarry Park safe, tidy and litter free. Their activities involve cutting back hedges, path clearing, bulb planting and litter picking, all intended to benefit the local area from both an environmental and social perspective.
The grant from Vulcan Renewables helped to purchase 34 saplings of mixed nature varieties including Hornbeam, Field Maple, Crab Apple Rowan and Lime. These saplings were to supplement previous planting that the group have undertaken, and these more mature saplings ensure the best chance of surviving colder temperatures over winter.
May Wade, the project coordinator, scheduled Friday 1st of December 2023 as the workday. A frosty winters day did not deter the volunteers and the working group included volunteers from Vulcan, Hatfield Town Council and of course a large group of FQP members. All worked together to dig holes and plant trees that will provide food and habitat for wildlife, as well as improve the experience the park provides for visiting community members.

Boosting Biodiversity in Hatfield

A Hibaldstow-based group approached Merlin Renewables for funding in 2022 with the goal of bringing the local community together following the isolation felt during the Covid pandemic.
The group was widely supported with volunteers from as young as seven engaging in the project. The group applied to the community fund over the course of two years, with the intention of putting any funding towards the cost of the hall hire, scenery, insurance and equipment hire. In the longer term, the group hoped to become a permanent fixture in the village.
The Merlin Renewables community fund granted £1,500 over the course of 2022 &#038; 2023. Alongside support from other local businesses, funding has allowed the group to become established.
The group now comprises children and adults from Hibaldstow and the surrounding area, some of whom had no drama experience prior to joining. The group practices drama twice a week in specialist workshops, building confidence as well as diverse community relations across generations.
The Hibaldstow Players’ current stability is due to the success of the 2023 event and the hard work and commitment of volunteers. A production of Cinderella went live in February of 2023 for three nights. The event was a sellout, with many audience members commenting how entertained they were and that they would jump at tickets again should there be another production. The group is now looking ahead to performing Jack and the Beanstalk in 2024.

Forming a local drama group in Hibaldstow

Friends of Jubilee Park (FJP) is a community group based in Hatfield that successfully applied for £500 of funding to help boost local biodiversity.
<h3>Supporting local biodiversity</h3>
The group takes great pride in caring for Jubilee Fields, a large green community space that houses football pitches, a children’s park and a skate park. FJP’s primary focus is increasing wildflower planting in the park to provide habitat and food for pollinators and wildlife.
In 5 years the group has planted over 3000 saplings and 2000 spring bulbs and perennials. The group persuaded Hatfield Town Council (HTC) to leave an area of parkland un-mowed to allow grasses and wildflower to proliferate. Unfortunately, the group experienced vandalism that hindered progress. The group believed a successful project would not only prevent monoculture and improve species variety, but also reduce anti-social behaviour.
Funding from Vulcan Renewables went towards the bulk purchase of wildflower seeds and plug plants, which flourished over the summer of 2023 and have now established into wildflower meadows and grassed areas.
The group has grown to 60+ volunteers, which has provided the momentum required to combat vandalism. Alongside HTC and local police, the group has created a protective ditch and mound around the planting areas. Volunteers have noted an increase in insect and bird numbers and 40 birdboxes have been installed in the park. Digestate (spent organic matter) from Vulcan Renewables was used as a valuable organic fertiliser for the new tree saplings.
The FJP have worked with both Travis School and Hatfield Scouts on tree planting. The increased community connection and combatting of anti-social behaviour means that the project has had a significant social impact, as well as tangible environmental benefits.

Wildflower and tree planting in Hatfield

<h3>Report Summary on Biogas</h3>
Each year Goldman Sachs releases a Carbonomics Report, aimed at providing businesses with the ability to discover the cost of reaching net-zero and the themes that are shaping progress towards a low-carbon economy.
At the end of 2023, the report was particularly favourable towards the potential of biogas and biomethane, stating “Renewable gases such as biogas and biomethane are critical, under-appreciated pillars for energy security, affordability and sustainability.”
There are also some standout statements on key areas.
<h3>Electricity</h3>
&#8220;Biogas can be used directly to produce electricity or it can be upgraded to biomethane and fed into the existing gas infrastructure, making it possible to offer dynamic electricity production that can accomondate fluctuations in electricity demand. The relatively high cost of biogas and biomethane production compared to the natural gas prices means a carbon price of using renewable natural gas instead of conventional natural gas for power generation at 59-112 US$/tnCO2eq depending on the gas prices.&#8221;
<h3>Heat</h3>
&#8220;Central combined heat and power generation (CHP) units can be run on biomethane and provide heat through a district heating network. One of the main advantages of using renewable gas as a de-carbonization technology is the absence of additional costs for the adopting of infrastructure or appliances to make them biomethane-appropriate, since biomethane can act as a natural gas substitute, transported through the natural gas network and used in existing heating appliances or district heating facilities.&#8221;
<h3>Transport</h3>
&#8220;Biomethane is an effective way to abate emissions in transport, which represents 15% of total global emissions. Biomethane can be used as a renewable alternative to fossil fuels in gas vehicles and LNG vessels, with little to no change required to existing CNG and LNG-fuelled engines. Similar to renewable gas adoption in buildings, biomethane can be directly injected into the natural gas grid and then supplied to the already existing network of CNG and LNG filling stations, which means that biomethane deployment in order to substitute conventional fuels does not require any additional investments and time to develop new infrastructure&#8221;
You can read the full report at:
<a href="https://www.goldmansachs.com/intelligence/pages/carbonomics-updated-cost-curve-shows-diverging-trends.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.goldmansachs.com/intelligence/pages/carbonomics-updated-cost-curve-shows-diverging-trends.html</a>

Goldman Sachs Carbonomics Report 2023

<h3>Our Chosen Charities</h3>
Each year Future Biogas chooses organisations at both a local (to our head office in Surrey), national and even international charities to make donations to. The organisations below are our chosen charities for 2024.
We also support causes local to our regional sites that will be announced later in the year.
<h3>MS Society</h3>
Funding ground-breaking research and providing support and information to make sure no one has to face MS alone.
<a href="https://www.mssociety.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.mssociety.org.uk/</a>
<h3>Sasha&#8217;s Project</h3>
Crisis centre for young people struggling with their mental health.
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/sashasproject/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.facebook.com/sashasproject/</a>
<h3>The Eikon Charity</h3>
Helping young people to feel safe, heard and supported.
<a href="https://eikon.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://eikon.org.uk/</a>
<h3>The Farming Community Network</h3>
Voluntary organisation and charity, supporting farmers and their families.
<a href="https://fcn.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://fcn.org.uk/</a>
<h3>Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)</h3>
Offering life-saving services and community support to anyone who&#8217;s struggling with life, no matter who they are, where they&#8217;re from or what they&#8217;re going through.
<a href="https://www.thecalmzone.net/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.thecalmzone.net/</a>
<h3>The Menopause Charity</h3>
Helping to eliminate needless suffering and stigma, through education, treatment and support.
<a href="https://www.themenopausecharity.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.themenopausecharity.org/</a>
<h3>PCH-Familie e.V.</h3>
Community, advice and help for all families with Pontocerebellar Hypoplasia Type 2 (PCH2) children.
<a href="https://cruise4life.de/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://cruise4life.de/</a>

Future Biogas Supported Charities 2024

On the 13th December 2023, Future Biogas CEO Philipp Lukas joined the UK Government Energy Security and Net Zero&#8217;s &#8220;Keeping the Lights On&#8221; inquiry
Representatives from the bioenergy sector were asked about the Government’s biomass strategy and the current sustainability of the industry. There were also questions on what role bioenergy with carbon capture storage (BECCS) could play in reducing the country’s emissions and how incentives in the sector are structured.
The full session can we viewed at the url below:
<a href="https://parliamentlive.tv/event/index/91bc64f9-b89d-4498-8b0a-b592e4090f15" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://parliamentlive.tv/event/index/91bc64f9-b89d-4498-8b0a-b592e4090f15</a>

Philipp Lukas Joins Energy Security and Net Zero Committee

<h3></h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-5709" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Angela-news-300x206.jpg" alt="Angela Battle" width="449" height="309" />
<h3>Job Overview</h3>
I&#8217;m the Feedstock Director at Future Biogas. On average, the Feedstock Team procures 500,000 tonnes of feedstock each year and manages the return of 330,000t of digestate back to farms. My role forms the link between my team and our Finance, and Biology departments internally and our investors (site owners) externally. A key part of my role involves understanding the business case for each of our sites and working with the Feedstock Team to ensure that our feedstock is on target in terms of budget and quality. Negotiating long term feedstock contracts and digestate storage arrangements is also a big part of my job. This involves understanding and being reactive to industry challenges, such as recent agricultural inflation, and longer-term agricultural policy.
The people in farming are genuine and incredibly hard working which gives the team a very positive outlook. Agriculture in the context of renewable energy adds further complexity to the job, both being rapidly evolving industries.
Being part of a rapidly growing company in an emerging industry, I have had the opportunity to be creative and innovative in the commercial solutions we seek, in collaboration with my team and other departments.
<h3>Career Path</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3904 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-insights-research-a-day-in-the-life-angela-battle-feedstock-director-image-one.jpg" alt="A day in the life: Angela Battle - Feedstock Director | Insights &amp; Research | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
I studied Law at Sheffield University. When I graduated, I moved to London and worked in a private equity firm where I learnt about company law and acquisitions. I gained experience in a range of departments including property, litigation, corporate and banking law, before qualifying into the Corporate Department. My heart however was not in corporate law, and I always wanted to work in agriculture.
I left London and joined Future Biogas when the company and UK industry was in its infancy. We only had 2 sites and 10 members of staff at the time (we now run 12 sites and have approximately 160 members of staff). I set up a lot of the original feedstock contracts and data capture processes. I enjoy working with numbers, which led to me doing feedstock and digestate budgets for all of sites and working closely with Finance to understand feedstock’s impact on each site’s finances. Over time I have worked to understand our costs in great detail which has helped drive a lot of our decision making.
<h3>Challenges</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3908 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/future-biogas-news-resources-insights-research-a-day-in-the-life-angela-battle-feedstock-director-image-two.jpg" alt="A day in the life: Angela Battle - Feedstock Director | Insights &amp; Research | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Challenges have arisen from increasingly volatile weather and tightening of digestate spreading regulations creating a need for more storage. Such projects have multiple and complex hurdles to overcome: commercial, environmental, planning and legal. It has definitely been an exercise in resilience with plenty of ‘2 steps forward and 1 step back’ scenarios, but when a project is complete, it is immensely satisfying.
More recently, we have had a lot of challenge on the price we offer to our growers for AD crops. This has become a lot more complex considering huge changes in agriculture post-Brexit and global uncertainties. It has been very rewarding working with the team to understand other people’s perspectives and seek to arrive at a commercial position that works for all sides. One size does not fit all in farming with our suppliers ranging from large estates to smaller family farms.
<h3>Female Representation in Farming</h3>
When I first sought a job in agriculture, I had a lot of knock backs. People could not see the link in skills between corporate law and agriculture. I also did not have a traditional background in arable farming which I suspect some employers were looking for. Farms are still predominantly run by men, probably due to an historic association with farming needing physical strength. However, farming is now becoming much more management focused with attention to detail and commercial sense giving farms the edge. There are a huge number of exciting opportunities arising in the agricultural industry with farms losing their subsidy income and having to be more commercially and environmentally focused.
My advice to women looking at careers in agriculture would be to choose a progressive employer. A good clue is to look at how many women make up the management team. I have had fantastic support from my manager who has championed women in the workplace. I genuinely believe business attitudes are changing, with just under 50% of the departmental managers at Future Biogas now being women. Try to understand what interests and motivates you in a role. Chat to recruitment agents, employers, or people in the industry for ideas. Understanding your own strengths and weaknesses and how you would fit into a role are key, but don’t fall into the trap of imposter syndrome. Women are very guilty of not seeking opportunities where they fear they cannot do 100% of the job. Don’t be put off by rejections – I have had too many to count!

A day in the life: Angela Battle – Feedstock Director

<h3>Job Overview</h3>
I am the ESG Coordinator at Future Biogas and began my journey here in 2021. This role was created to further enhance the ESG arm of the business. I work within the Business Development team and my role is cross functional, incorporating multiple business areas including sustainability, planning, operations, and health and safety.
This diversity provides the opportunity to work with lots of Future Biogas’ great people across all areas of the business and gain an insight into their roles. This also leads to contrasting work streams and requires a broad skillset. Often technical skills are involved within the environmental and governance side but softer skills on the social side. However, these differing areas are equally crucial and work in unison to embed ESG practically into the day-to-day operation at Future Biogas.
<h3>Environmental</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3913 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-insights-research-a-day-in-the-life-ross-taylor-esg-coordinator-image-one.jpg" alt="A day in the life: Ross Taylor - ESG Coordinator | Insights &amp; Research | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
The building blocks of the ‘environmental’ section of ESG at Future Biogas are borne out of tangible works that we implement on our sites and our day-to-day operational working.
On site, we’re always searching for ways to improve our environmental performance. One of our target areas is biodiversity and we have site-specific biodiversity management plans in place that outline native planting schemes and continual biodiversity improvement.
We provide key performance indicators (KPIs) on a monthly basis, recording and reporting upon environmental and sustainability performance for each site. This involves monitoring and measuring a host of site data that have an environmental output (e.g. Propane, diesel, and electricity consumption).
The data we report feeds into calculating our own operational carbon footprint that is accredited against the standard ISO 14064. From this point we can analyse the data further and understand areas where we can reduce our impact.
I also work as part of the wider sustainability team, which involves collaborative projects such as improving carbon literacy among employees and the company sustainability strategy.
<h3>Social</h3>
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3914 size-full" src="https://cms-live.futurebiogas.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/future-biogas-news-resources-insights-research-a-day-in-the-life-ross-taylor-esg-coordinator-image-two.jpg" alt="A day in the life: Ross Taylor - ESG Coordinator | Insights &amp; Research | News &amp; Resources | Future Biogas" width="880" height="560" />
Becoming a force for good in the local communities in which we operate is key to our ESG strategy. This involves community funding schemes across all of our sites.
We often try to steer groups in a direction that is also close to FB’s work. E.g. Biodiversity enhancement, environmental improvement and energy efficiency. We try to play an active role in the grants we give to local groups, often visiting and taking part in various community-led events.
In the last 10 years FB has invested over £350,000 in local communities, projects and charitable causes. Further to this I assist the planning team as they begin to roll out potential new developments at public consultation events explaining the process and purpose of AD developments.
We also have social KPIs related to individual sites, which include factors such as health and safety (e.g. accidents, incidents, near misses reported), diversity and employment figures.
These are recorded on a monthly basis; H&amp;S in particular is a crucial KPI as it is a core business value of ours, underlining our commitment to ensure that everyone involved in our operations is safe to work.
<h3>Governance</h3>
A robust approach to governance is the backbone of ESG at Future Biogas. Governance refers to policies such as environmental, sustainability, and health and safety. These policies inform our day-to-day operation and ensure that we adopt best practice across the business and are compliant with the rules and regulations for our industry.
Our accreditations such as ISO 9001 (Quality), 14001 (Environmental) and 45001 (Health and Safety) demonstrate not only our commitment to meet these standards but that we continually strive for improvement.

A day in the life: Ross Taylor – ESG Coordinator

Egmere Energy Ltd is an anaerobic digestion plant located in North Norfolk. Future Biogas manage and operate the plant on behalf of JLEN, and this includes dispersing the Egmere Energy Ltd annual community fund.
The fund is available to support local initiatives that promote social sustainability, environmental sustainability and educational promotion. This year we are proud to donate to the North West Norfolk Ringing Group (NWNRG) which supports the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO), undertakes original ornithological research projects and contributes to the national bird ringing scheme. The group began monitoring birds on the Holkham estate in 1990 and has been monitoring local bird numbers and breeding success through the use of ringing. Since the group’s formation they have ringed over 45,000 birds of 126 species.
Recently, barn owls have been at the forefront of the group’s conservation work. To monitor numbers the NWNRG tag any young owlets with leg rings issued by the BTO. Ringing allows for the group to identify the birds as individuals as each ring has unique number that codes the bird’s age, sex, weight, wing length measurements and any moult that the bird is undergoing. These details are all taken quickly so that the bird is not harmed. In 2021 there was evidence of 17 breeding pairs of barn owls across 50 nest sites. Furthermore 31 chicks were ringed and will be kept on record for the rest of their lives.
The NWNRG and Holkham Estate donated a barn owl box to Egmere Energy (pictured right). Previously, our owl box had been inhabited but later suffered irreparable storm damage. It is hoped that now the box has been reinstated it will become another barn owl home very soon.
Egmere Energy donated funds to assist the volunteers in continuing their valuable work and towards the cost of the rings. We hope that the provision of nesting boxes together with ringing the barn owl population will further strengthen and inform conservation efforts. We are delighted to have made a contribution to this important environmental work and we wish continued success and longevity to the NWNRG.
To find out more about barn owl ringing, bird conservation efforts in Norfolk or to make a donation please visit the NWNRG website.

Supporting local barn owl conservation in Northwest Norfolk

<h3>Times Climate and Sustainability Supplement</h3>
On Thursday 23rd November, Future Biogas was featured in the Times special report on Climate and Sustainability.
Among a variety of topics covered in the report, Project Carbon Harvest was highlighted for its innovative model and its ability to decarbonise industry.
Future Biogas CEO Philipp Lukas was interviewed for the feature, and was quoted outlining the project, detailing why businesses are looking for solutions to decarbonise gas and heat demands, as well as why high integrity carbon offset opportunities are in-demand for their transparency and measurability.
The full report can be accessed below.
<a href="https://a.storyblok.com/f/248396/x/38b3cad224/times-raconteur-climate-and-sustainability-special-report.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Times Raconteur Climate and Sustainability Special Report</a>

Future Biogas featured in The Times

Future Biogas has always valued the communities in which we operate. As a fundamental part of our efforts to be a good neighbour, we continue to operate our community funding scheme in 2023.
<h3>Our Community Support Initiatives</h3>
In all, the sites have contributed £55,000 towards initiatives that local resident groups and projects have nominated as important to their area via application.
Many of the projects reflect ongoing issues that the country is facing. For example, we have funded a number of projects that mitigate against the cost-of-living crisis. These include food bank initiatives and efforts to reduce bills and increase the sustainability of local buildings through energy efficiency improvements.
It is also pleasing to be involved with a growing number of biodiversity projects, because of how closely this links with Future Biogas’ values of enhancing biodiversity in our own operations.
We have and will continue to visit as many of the projects as possible to see the impact these initiatives are having in person.
In 2024 the community fund scheme will open again, so if you are local to any of the sites and aware of any groups that may be interested in applying, please contact us so we can make them aware of the opportunity.
Below is a brief summary of the schemes being funded this year.
<h3>Biogas Meden</h3>
<ul>
<li>Cuckney &amp; Norton Parish Council – Annual donation to local council</li>
<li>Welbeck Colliery Miners Welfare – Annual donation to local trust very close to site</li>
</ul>
<h3>Egmere Energy</h3>
<ul>
<li>Heritage House Care Home – Funding towards arm chair exercise sessions for dementia patients</li>
<li>South Creake Dimentia Support Group – To resource approximately 20 group ‘meet &amp; support’ sessions to contribute to reducing social isolation and treating those in early stage dementia</li>
<li>Burnham Thorpe Bowls Club – Towards the installation of a disabled access ramp for the bowls club. The club has many elderly members who use the club for company and exercise</li>
<li>Wells Community Hospital Trust – Summer holiday drop in food bank and trust for families with young children where nutritional food is subsidised</li>
<li>South Creake Parish Council – Refurbishment of park equipment so they are usable for families once again</li>
<li>North Creake Parish Council – For outdoor gym equipment that is for public use</li>
</ul>
<h3>Warren Energy</h3>
<ul>
<li>1st Feltwell Brownies – Funding towards resources, trips and fees. The overall funding reduces costs for families.</li>
<li>Feltwell Karate Club – Sponsorship and funding towards equipment for the club.</li>
<li>Food Pantry Feltwell – Funding towards resources and bills of the food bank to combat the cost of living crisis.</li>
<li>Feltwell in Bloom – Further funding towards equipment and the local wildflower planting project to increase local biodiversity</li>
<li>St Mary’s Church Feltwell – Funding towards a large project to improve the toilet, water and drainage facilities in the church. The church plays host to a number of village groups and events, as well as the Feltwell Food Bank that is also a acommunity fund recipient</li>
<li>Feltwell Parish Council – Funding towards a park bench made form 100% recycled plastic</li>
</ul>
<h3>Grange Farm Energy</h3>
<ul>
<li>Spridlington Village Hall Committee – Insulation of kitchen and serving area to reduce energy bills and improve the energy rating of the building</li>
<li>Scampton Church and RAF War Graves Heritage Centre – Installation of LED lighting system to reduce energy bills and improve the energy rating of the building. Additionally, this would be a contribution towards protecting local heritage</li>
</ul>
<h3>Merlin Renewables</h3>
<ul>
<li>North Lincs Aviation Centre – To erect a second wartime wooden hut for education purposes and to preserve local heritage</li>
<li>Hibaldstow Mother &amp; Toddler Group – Funding for equipment to be used in the village hall for mother/toddler sessions</li>
<li>Waddingham Village Hall – Improvements to the energy efficiency of the building</li>
<li>Scawby Parish Council – Funding towards a local wildflower planting project to increase biodiversity</li>
<li>Redbourne St Andrew Church – Funding towards the church clock tower repair, which acts as a central point for the village with the church used my many in the community</li>
<li>Hibaldstow Village Voice – Annual sponsorship of the local magazine</li>
<li>Hibaldstow Players – Funding towards the newly formed local theatre group</li>
<li>Rotary Club of Brigg – Annual funding towards the club who make Xmas hampers for low income families in the local area</li>
</ul>
<h3>Vulcan Renewables</h3>
<ul>
<li>46th Hatfield Guides – Continued support to help combat increasing costs whilst still allowing involvement in the club</li>
<li>47th Hatfield Brownies – Towards craft suppliers for the group</li>
<li>Friends of Quarry Park – Local tree planting project to increase biodiversity and improve the park in general</li>
<li>Hatfield Games Club – Funding towards indoor curling equipment to increase social inclusion</li>
<li>Hatfield Community Library – Setting up of a weekly games night aimed at socially isolated individuals in the area. Combines well with the game club as resources will be shared</li>
<li>Hatfield Village Hall &amp; Old People’s Centre – Energy saving upgrades to the hall</li>
<li>Redhouse Park Residents Association Funding towards a professional standard ladder and PA system to assist with resident projects</li>
<li>Hatfield Town Cricket Club – Hatfield Town Cricket Club £2,350 Contribution towards kit and new changing room for female players</li>
</ul>
<h3>Heath Farm Energy</h3>
<ul>
<li>Lincolnshire and Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance – Funding towards a charity golf day to raise money for Lincs and Notts Air Ambulance, who do not receive any government of NHS funding</li>
<li>Metheringham Village Hall – Building improvements to the village hall such as wifi, flooring and windows</li>
<li>Metheringham Swimming Pool – Funding towards heating costs to allow the community swimming pool to open</li>
<li>Metheringham PC – Funding towards two local defibs for community use in the case of an emergency</li>
</ul>

Future Biogas Community Funding 2023

AstraZeneca signs a gas sale agreement (GSA) with Future Biogas to help cut their Scope 1 emissions. In a first-of-its-kind arrangement, 100,000 MWh of home-grown biomethane will be sleeved from Future Biogas’ anaerobic digestion (AD) plants to AstraZeneca’s UK sites via the national gas grid. This GSA is responsible for the development of the UK’s first unsubsidised Anaerobic Digestion (AD) plant, ensuring the delivery of 100% additional green gas.
<h3>A new partnership</h3>
Powering AstraZeneca’s transition to net zero, the Company has agreed a 15-year partnership with Future Biogas to establish the UK’s first unsubsidised industrial-scale supply of biomethane gas, and is investing in major energy efficiencies in its operations, totalling a commitment of £100m.
Energy from the biomethane facility will supply AstraZeneca’s sites in Macclesfield, Cambridge, Luton and Speke with 100 gigawatt hours (GWh) per year, equivalent to the heat demands of over 8,000 homes. Once operational in early 2025, the partnership will reduce emissions by an estimated 20,000 tonnes CO2 equivalent (CO2e), adding renewable energy capacity to the national gas grid.
The anaerobic digestion facility and long-term partnership with Future Biogas provide a blueprint for wider commercial adoption of renewable gas in the UK. A dynamic biomethane market is seen as crucial to the UK achieving net zero.
Juliette White, Vice President, Global Sustainability &amp; Safety, Health &amp; Environment, at AstraZeneca, said: “Today’s commitment of £100 million shows we are serious about decarbonising the discovery, development and manufacture of medicines and securing a sustainable future for our sites across the UK and globally. In leading from the front on the commercial adoption of clean heat, we are innovating to expand the usage of renewable energy, contributing to the circular economy and accelerating our progress towards net zero.”
Biomethane represents the most immediately available and viable solution for low-carbon heat demand. It is ready to use, compatible with all existing infrastructure, and its combustion is carbon neutral. By sleeving the gas through the grid, biomethane can be delivered directly to AstraZeneca, and its carbon savings can be robustly tracked from production to use.
Future Biogas CEO Philipp Lukas said “AstraZeneca’s ground-breaking investment in green gas affirms its status as a global leader in the transition to net zero. The opportunity to combine unsubsidised biomethane production with regenerative farming benefits local farms and supports the growing focus on soil health and sustainable food production. Future Biogas expects this model to be adopted by many other innovative organisations with strong net zero ambitions.”
UK farms and sustainable land management sit at the heart of this gas supply agreement. The production of biomethane will support farms in their transition to more regenerative practices. Bioenergy crops will be grown as part of diverse rotations, including food crops, cover cropping and providing opportunities for companion cropping. This co-production of food and energy offers multiple environmental benefits – increasing crop yields, reducing the demand for pesticides and herbicides, enriching biodiversity, and improving soil health – while decarbonising food and energy systems.
The wider use of regenerative farming techniques, such as minimal tillage, and cover crops ensures that only the most sustainable crops are supplied for biomethane production. In addition, anaerobic digestion co-creates a carbon-rich biofertiliser, known as digestate, displacing the need for artificial fertilisers, and replenishes soils with organic matter which is, again, essential for healthy soil and its ability to act as a carbon sink.
Overall, Future Biogas is targeting the growth of ‘carbon neutral’ crops, whereby carbon sequestration in soils outweighs any carbon emissions derived from the crops’ cultivation. Moreover, Future Biogas will capture CO2 from the biogas production process and transport it for permanent geological storage. This process delivers GHG removals – actively reversing emissions.
<h3>About Future Biogas</h3>
Future Biogas is one of the UK’s largest producers of biomethane, injecting over 500 GWh of green gas into the grid each year – enough to heat over 40,000 homes.
Founded in 2008, Future Biogas is a highly experienced developer and operator of AD plants across the UK, responsible for over £120m in biogas infrastructure. At present, it operates 12 large-scale AD plants, primarily located across the East and North-East of England. Of these plants, eleven focus on the production of biomethane, injecting it into the UK gas grid. One of the sites is a 4.5 MW site producing renewable electricity via private wire to supply an RAF base in East Anglia.
Future Biogas is leading the development of Project Carbon Harvest – a venture to design and operate the next generation of AD plants delivering Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS). This Project will operate without direct government subsidy, where GHG removal credits can replace income historically provided by tariff support (e.g., FIT, RHI, GGSS). The opportunity is to build over 25 new plants within the next decade.
<h3>About AstraZeneca</h3>
AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and BioPharmaceuticals, including Cardiovascular, Renal &amp; Metabolism, and Respiratory &amp; Immunology. AstraZeneca operates in over 100 countries and its medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide.
With a proud 100-year heritage in advancing UK science, today AstraZeneca is the UK’s leading biopharmaceutical company. AstraZeneca is based in five different locations across the UK, with its global headquarters in Cambridge. In the UK, around 8,700 employees work in research and development, manufacturing, supply, sales, and marketing. We supply around 35 different medicines to the NHS.
<h3>Request More Information</h3>
If you&#8217;re interested in learning more about this partnership or how Future Biogas might be able to support your business, please <a href="https://www.futurebiogas.com/contact/">contact us</a>.

AstraZeneca partners with Future Biogas to deliver net zero target

Privacy Policy

Policies

Terms & Conditions

<h3>5 Year</h3>
Offtake options &#8211; fixed pricing linked to CPI
<h3>10 Year</h3>
Offtake options &#8211; fixed pricing linked to CPI
<h3>15 Year</h3>
Offtake options &#8211; fixed pricing linked to CPI

We Can Offer

<h4>Zero carbon solution</h4>
all independently audited with life cycle analysis and carbon intensity reporting.
<h4>Unsubsidised low emission  biomethane</h4>
means your company assumes full attribution for all climate benefits.
<h4>Fully additional biomethane</h4>
is 100% attributable to you, so you can operate with integrity and without fear of greenwashing.

What You Get

Solutions

Future Biogas can virtually sleeve unsubsidised biomethane via the existing gas grid to meet your gas demand. We develop new build new fully additional anaerobic digesters with Carbon Capture to meet demand. Green gas is load balanced through the grid with a full chain of custody proving that the gas you consume is met by equal green gas development.