NEWS

The morning session of the conference was dedicated to implementation strategies of several European states in the field of biogas. "Fukushima" – was the introducing word of many speakers trying to strongly point out the importance of further developing the use of renewables.

Mr. Wellinger (European Biogas Association, Brussels) gave an overview on biogas strategies as presented in the nREAPS and showed in examples that relevant policy really does influence developments and markets. Feed in tariffs but as well financial support of investments is crucial for a growing biogas market development.

Mr. Panczyszyn (Ministry of Economy, Poland) presented the plans of the Polish government to substantially increase the biogas production from agricultural sources, which are extensively available.

Ms. Hedvig Laczi (Hungarian Ministry of National Development) addressed the barriers to overcome for achieving growth of renewable energy use. Interesting is an idea of Slovenia for biogas promotion – according to Mr. Grmek (ApE) there is now a study programme in secondary school "Operator of biogas plant".

The History of biogas use in Germany presented by Mr. Hahn (IWES Fraunhofer) gave an interesting insight into the lessons that Germany learned in 70 years of biogas usage – which might be as well applicable in other countries.

Other European countries have all different potentials or pathways – so has Italy, according to Mr. Colonna from the Italian organisation ENEA, with the widest natural gas network in the EU an excellent opportunity to develop its biomethane potential. Czech Republic - with the construction of 40 plants per year - really can be counted as a „booming biogas country“ with an expanding market, according to Mr. Wellinger’s point of few.