DfE’s biomethane actions welcomed by Magherafelt gas network operator

Northern Ireland’s journey towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future has taken a significant step forward with the Department for the Economy’s (DfE) latest commitments in the newly-published Energy Strategy Action Plan 2025.

Among the most notable developments is the Department’s focus on biomethane – an indigenous, fully renewable gas that has the potential to transform the region’s energy landscape.

As the gas network operator for Magherafelt, Evolve has welcomed this development, which reinforces the critical role biomethane will play in reducing carbon emissions and securing a long-term, sustainable energy supply.

In late 2023, Evolve achieved a historic milestone by overseeing the first-ever direct injection of biomethane into the gas grid on the island of Ireland, marking the start of a transformative journey by the company to fully decarbonise its gas network by 2030.

Evolve has also been a strong advocate for a just transition, calling for strategic collaboration and coordinated efforts across all facets of the energy industry to ensure the path to net zero is affordable and equitable for everyone in Northern Ireland.

The Energy Strategy Action Plan 2025 outlines key measures that intend to further drive biomethane’s integration into the energy system.

The Department has committed to progressing financial support mechanisms, consulting on options to reduce gas network connection costs, and developing industry standards to ensure a sustainable supply chain.

These steps seek to create a stable policy environment for producers and investors, accelerating the growth of biomethane production across the region.

David Butler, Director at Evolve, (pictured above) commented: “This latest action from the Department for the Economy reinforces what we at Evolve have already been working towards – the full decarbonisation of our gas network. Biomethane is a proven, scalable solution that can be delivered through our existing infrastructure, reducing emissions while maintaining energy security and affordability. By working collaboratively – government, industry, and producers – we can create a sustainable, resilient energy future that benefits the consumers and businesses within our network area.”

Launching the Action Plan, Economy Minister, Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA, said: “Delivering on this year’s Action Plan will require commitment across Government, the energy sector, business and academia to ensure that we deliver a just transition. This Plan is a roadmap to focus that transition and will bring the Department and its partners closer to meeting our decarbonisation targets.”

Alongside the commitments outlined in the Action Plan, DfE has already completed a Call for Evidence on ‘Developing Biomethane Production in Northern Ireland’, gathering input from stakeholders across the energy, agriculture, and business sectors.

The insights gained will inform the next phase of policy development, with a response report expected in mid-2025 and a full framework set to follow by the end of this year.

The latest research indicates that Northern Ireland could produce over 6.12 TWh of biomethane per year – equivalent to more than 80% of the current gas demand in the distribution network.

For more information on Evolve’s plan to decarbonise their network, visit Evolve Network