The Decisio™ platform reveals massive cost-saving potential in UK Biogas Sector.

New research using BMA's Decisio™ platform, in partnership with ADBA, has revealed the significant cost-saving potential of biogas and biomethane expansion in the UK. The analysis shows that expanding these sustainable technologies could create £298 billion in energy system savings. The modeling demonstrates that net zero costs could be reduced by more than £400 annually for every British household.

Groundbreaking Analysis Using Advanced Modelling

The study, conducted by BMA using its AI-assisted Decisio™ whole energy planning system, provides compelling evidence that the cost of meeting Britain's Net Zero targets in 2050 could be nearly £300 billion less than official projections. This analysis draws on the same computer model framework used by the UK's Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the National Energy System Operator (NESO).

Key Findings

Our analysis identified several significant opportunities for cost reduction:

• A potential saving of £415 per household annually through increased use of home-grown renewable green gas
• £22 billion in capital and operating cost savings by 2030 in the clean power system sector
• £36 billion reduction in offshore wind investment (18% decrease)
• £10.5 billion reduction in onshore wind investment (36% decrease)
• Additional savings in nuclear power stations, transmission investment, and hydrogen production

The Role of Green Gas

Green gas, produced from organic matter including food waste, farm manures, industrial waste, energy crops, and wastewater sewage sludge, plays a crucial role in these potential savings. Its value comes from its ability to maintain power supply during periods of low wind and solar generation, reducing the need for more expensive investments in intermittent renewables.

System Integration and Storage

Biomethane offers significant advantages as a sustainable energy source:

• Easy storage capability in the existing gas grid
• Potential storage in facilities like the former Rough gas wells in the North Sea
• Efficient conversion to hydrogen with minimal losses
• Acts as a reliable backup for intermittent renewable sources

Expert Perspectives

As Chris Huhne, chairman of ADBA, notes: "Biomethane is the big green battery that can keep us warm and well-lit in dark winters more cheaply than other identified pathways to net zero. This study is a wake-up call to look at more cost-effective options for net zero."

Dr. Gareth Mottram, ADBA's policy lead, adds: "This analysis shows the value of biomethane as a turn-on, turn-off energy source that can significantly cut the costs of operating the whole energy system. Biomethane is the perfect complement to intermittent renewables like solar and wind."

Looking Forward

The study's findings suggest a more cost-effective path to net zero than previously modeled. While the future energy landscape will still be predominantly electric, the integration of green gas provides a more resilient and economical approach to maintaining consistent power supply.

For more information about how the Decisio™ platform can help optimise energy system planning, contact BMA today