The Netherlands is taking major steps towards a more sustainable energy system by aiming to produce no less than 2030 billion cubic metres of green gas by 2. An important contribution to this ambition comes from animal manure, which can be converted into sustainable gas through fermentation. An increase in permit applications for mono-manure digesters on farms is expected in the coming years, partly due to new regulations and financial incentives. To support this process, the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO) has developed a guideline for permit issuers.
Green gas: a step towards less dependence on fossil fuels
Green gas is seen as a promising alternative to natural gas, which contributes to the reduction of CO2 emissions and thus to the climate objectives of the Netherlands. By increasing the production of green gas, the Netherlands will also become less dependent on the import of fossil energy. The Green Gas Program, set up by the Dutch government, aims to increase the production of green gas to 2 billion cubic meters per year. The fermentation of manure accounts for approximately 50% of this target, which amounts to 1 billion cubic meters of green gas.
Animal manure, a residual material with potential, can be converted into green gas by means of fermentation. A method that, when applying daytime manure removal, ensures that manure is fermented as soon as possible after leaving the stable. This limits the emission of harmful substances such as ammonia and methane in the stable.
Financial incentives for livestock farmers
For livestock farmers, small-scale mono-manure fermentation is becoming increasingly attractive. In 2024, an additional subsidy option will be added to the subsidy scheme Stimulation of Sustainable Energy Production and Climate Transition (SDE++), aimed at fermenters with a capacity of more than 110 kW. The RVO expects that this subsidy measure will lead to a further increase in fermentation installations on farms. In addition, the government is working on a blending obligation for green gas in the natural gas network, which will further stimulate the demand for green gas.
Licensing procedures and new regulations
With the expected increase in permit applications for manure digesters, new challenges are also expected in the permit process. The introduction of the new Environmental Act as of 1 January 2024 has significantly changed the rules regarding permits for green gas production installations. In order to support permit issuers at municipalities, provinces and environmental services in their work, the RVO has developed a guideline. This guideline provides up-to-date information about the rules and procedures, and aims to make the permit granting process easier and faster.
Support for various stakeholders
The RVO guideline is not only intended for permit issuers, but also offers tools for supervisors, advisors and entrepreneurs. Supervisors can use the guideline to check whether digesters have been built and are working in accordance with the permits. Advisors who assist livestock farmers with their permit applications will find useful information in the guideline to ensure that this process runs smoothly. Entrepreneurs who are involved in the development of manure digestion projects can also benefit from the insights and guidelines in the document.
Source RVO
