Renewable Gas Alliance Chair Update

Over the last few months, it has become increasingly clear to all that whilst renewable electricity will play a critical role in Australia’s green energy future, it alone will not be sufficient to allow Australia to meet carbon reduction goals. On top of this, as the global energy crisis highlights, we cannot just wait for a panacea, we must develop available and underutilised renewable resources now to support the transition to net zero carbon.

The time of renewable gas is here. While those who have worked in bioenergy for a long time may be frustrated that hydrogen appears to have stolen your thunder, robbing you of your chance to finally to emerge from the fields and digestors for your moment of triumph. Don’t be disgruntled, the hydrogen publicity is born from the need for a solution to a problem we are equipped to solve. The focus on hydrogen has shone a light on the need for dispatchable energy and decarbonisation options which will, in turn, drive more demand for biogas and biomethane.

The pieces are starting to come together to realise this opportunity. By the end of the year, we will have an ERF biomethane method, support for an agricultural waste ERF method, the framework for a renewable gas certification scheme, a developing pipeline of biomethane projects and a Commonwealth Bioenergy Roadmap (fingers crossed). These outcomes have been due to the hard work of many members of Bioenergy Australia’s Renewable Gas Alliance, and I want to take this opportunity to thank the team for all their work and to call on others to join the effort. As the Australian Financial Review recently outlined, “renewable gas is set to “go off” in Australia, in all the right ways. 

The Renewable Gas Alliance meets quarterly with a focus on supporting growth of Australia’s biomethane sector. Members - to get involved please email georgina@bioenergyaustralia.org.au

Not a member but would like to get involved? Please review our membership categories and fees here or email admin@bioenergyaustralia.org.au to express interest.