UK gas networks join call for biomethane recognition in UK ETS
The Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association (ADBA), supported by over 90 businesses and organisations, has written to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband MP, urging the government to recognise biomethane as a net zero fuel under the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (UK ETS).
The open letter, co-signed by ADBA Chair and former Secretary of State Chris Huhne and Chief Executive Charlotte Morton OBE, warns that failure to act could jeopardise the UK’s net zero targets and risk more than £8 billion of private sector investment. Signatories include the GMB trade union and all gas distribution networks across Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Andy Prendergast, National Secretary of the GMB, added: “Recognising green gases like biomethane as net zero fuels under the UK ETS not only gives us a path towards net zero, it also provides a way to protect livelihoods whilst building a viable export industry. We need to seize this opportunity with both hands.”
The letter highlights the key role biomethane can play in decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors such as chemicals and manufacturing, while also supporting rural economies, and cutting methane emissions.
The industry is calling on government to:
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Confirm biomethane injected into the UK’s gas grid will be eligible under the UK ETS as a net zero fuel, in line with sustainable aviation fuel.
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Ensure UK ETS rules reflect the full value of biomethane.
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Provide a clear timeline for implementation to give investors confidence.
The signatories conclude: “Developers and investors urgently need clarity and confirmation that the full net zero value of biomethane will be recognised. Further delays threaten to stall a sector that is ready to scale and deliver.”