Time for biomethane

Why biomethane could be one of the key players in the process of modifying the fuel systems of gas-fired power stations after 2035 and in the energy transition – an analysis by M. Banasik, co-founder and managing partner of the BWW law firm.

The real potential of biomethane is evident in the updated National Energy and Climate Plan (KPEiK) up to 2030, with a outlook to 2040. The document, adopted by the government, is based on two detailed scenarios. The first – WEM (With Existing Measures) – is the reference scenario. It is based on current policies and measures and serves as the basis for setting realistic technical and economic targets. The second scenario – WAM (With Additional Measures) – is the accelerated transition scenario. It envisages the implementation of additional measures and a more comprehensive implementation of the objectives of the EU’s ‘Fit for 55’ package.

– The strategic document shows that renewable energy capacity will grow even without systemic support mechanisms guaranteed by the state, whilst gas is permanently replacing coal. At the same time, the Ministry of Energy explicitly highlights the need for the gradual roll-out of decarbonised and renewable gases. This, in turn, opens up a huge market for domestic biomethane and agricultural biogas – emphasises Mr Banasik, a lawyer.

‘Biogas and Biomethane in Poland 2026’ and data from KOWR

These strategic assumptions are confirmed in detail by the report “Biogas and Biomethane in Poland 2026”, published by the magazine “Biomasa”. The biogas and biomethane sector is in a phase of acceleration, “which is reflected in the behaviour of key state and financial institutions, but its development is hampered by regulatory and infrastructural barriers”.

Shortly before this, the National Centre for Agricultural Support (KOWR) published its own data. As at 28 May 2026, the register of agricultural biogas producers maintained by the Director-General of KOWR lists 209 installations belonging to 175 entities. Of these, as many as 203 installations operate on a cogeneration basis (generating both electricity and heat simultaneously).

– In the context of both reports, the move by the Ministry of Climate and Environment (MKiŚ) to amend the Act on Renewable Energy Sources (draft UD332) is even more welcome, specifically the decision to focus exclusively on biogas and biomethane within a single piece of legislation.

Dzierżki and… Ukraine set an example for us

All this coincides with information released to the public by the Polish Biogas Group (PGB). The expansion of the biogas plant in Dzierżki has been completed. The facility has gained an additional 0.5 MW cogeneration module. The investment will increase the capacity for electricity and heat production, as well as expand the local technological and energy infrastructure.

This plant has been socially accepted and a familiar feature of the local landscape for years. This is all thanks to the use of modern technologies designed to protect the environment and ensure the comfort of local communities –

Finally, let us look beyond our eastern border at what Ukraine is doing and planning in this regard, despite the war. This year, it plans to produce around 150 million m³ of biomethane. By 2030, this volume is set to rise to 500 million m³. This is to be funded mainly by the European Investment Bank (EIB).

Biomethane and the future of district heating

The Polish Society for Thermal Energy emphasises that the future model for district heating is based on sectoral integration and technological diversification from the outset. This involves the use of combined heat and power, thermal storage, heat pumps, waste heat, ITPO, biomass, electricity and, in the future, biomethane and renewable hydrogen.

“I fully agree with this. The energy transition and the district heating of tomorrow are a symphony of technologies, in which every instrumental section is important, linked by a coherent theme that responds to local needs and strengths, whilst at the same time providing support and fitting in with the needs of the national system,” points out Mr Banasik.