Biogas and organic farming

Germany is a world leader in biogas production and consumption, but, strangely, few organic farmers have such facilities. Now, the German Renewable Resources Agency (FNR) has begun a study to see how organic farming and biogas can be better combined.

Germany is a leader in biogas, but organic farmers remain largely uninterested despite the synergies.

Schmack Biogas

Of Germany's 7,100 biogas facilities, only around 200 are set up on organic farms. Yet, organic farming is considered more sustainable than conventional farming – and sustainability is a prime concern in the use of biomass as a source of energy.

Now, Germany's Renewable Resources Agency (FNR) has contracted research institute Ecofys to study the benefits of biogas units on organic farms. In addition to raising awareness about benefits, the purpose of this study is to investigate the financial and ecological payback of various types of facilities. In addition, the study will investigate whether organic feedstock used to produce biogas has different properties that should be taken into consideration.

Another outcome of the study, which is expected to be completed in 2015, will be the creation of a standing workgroup on Biogas on Organic Farms.

Ecofys's partners in the study include FiBL and the University of Kassel. (Craig Morris)