Conference of Energy Ministers calls for prospects for existing biogas plants

Existing, sustainable biogas plants should have a perspective in the future energy system. The Energy Ministers' Conference passed a motion to this effect on the initiative of Saxony's Energy Minister Wolfram Günther (Greens). The resolution calls for the preservation of existing plants for which funding under the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) expires after 20 years.

"Biogas supports the energy transition, biogas benefits agriculture and climate protection if it is sustainable, i.e. if it is produced from manure and other agricultural residues and waste materials," said Günther in a statement. It makes a double contribution to climate protection, as emissions of particularly climate-damaging gases such as methane are reduced. According to Günther, sustainable biogas plants also help to create added value in rural areas and reduce agricultural emissions.

The conference of energy ministers passed a total of 17 resolutions at its meeting in Schleswig-Holstein. Among other things, the heads of department spoke out in favour of a subsidy from the federal budget to stabilize grid fees. They also discussed the further expansion of renewable energies, which should be maintained at least at the current level. More green energy should also flow into industry, the heating sector and mobility.