Prospective developers of biogas projects are being called on to express any interest they may have in the government’s €200 million biomethane grant scheme.

According to the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, the opening of this expression of interest process marks an important step in the development of Ireland’s biomethane sector.

Funding for a second round of biomethane capital grants has been secured through the updated National Development Plan, supporting continued progress towards delivery of Ireland’s target of up to 5.7 terawatt-hours of indigenously produced biomethane.

Prospective developers are now invited to submit information on projects that may be eligible for support under the scheme.

The information received will help the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment assess the scale and readiness of potential projects and inform the design of the first funding call.

‘Milestone’

Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O’Brien said: “The opening of this expression of interest (EOI) process is an important milestone in delivering Ireland's National Biomethane Strategy.

“Biomethane has an important role to play in strengthening our energy security, reducing emissions, and creating new opportunities for farmers and rural communities.”

The minister added that he is encouraging prospective developers to engage with this process “as we continue to grow Ireland’s biomethane sector”.

Process

The biomethane sector is already building momentum in Ireland, with seven anaerobic digestion plants recently completed or under construction.

The department intends to open the formal application process following consideration of responses received through the EOI process.

The Biomethane Capital Grant Scheme will operate through a number of funding rounds between 2026 and 2030.

The EOI portal is now open until 5:00p.m on Friday, October 30.

Further information is available on the government’s website.