An estimated 125 farm-based anaerobic digestion plants will be required by 2030 in order to meet the renewable gas (biomethane) demand by members of Project Clover.

Biomethane is produced from upgrading biogas to around 99% methane purity. It comes from the anaerobic digestion of organic materials including slurries, grass, food waste and catch crops.

Biomethane is chemically identical to natural gas and can be injected into the national gas grid as a renewable substitute.

Opportunities

If realised, the project will present opportunities for farmers to own, develop or supply the plants.

It is envisaged the network of plants will be capable of processing 2m tonnes of slurry, while reducing methane emissions.

A further 2.5m tonnes of grass silage will be required to feed the units, contracted at a price of around €30/fresh weight tonne.