Future Biogas and AstraZeneca’s first unsubsidised UK biomethane plant is now operational

Future Biogas and AstraZeneca have announced that the UK's first unsubsidised biomethane plant dedicated to fuelling the life sciences sector is operational.
Located in Gonerby Moor, Lincolnshire, the plant will provide clean heat for all of AstraZeneca’s R&D and manufacturing in the UK, supporting sustainable production of medicines.
The plant, which will operate 24/7, will generate enough biomethane to heat the equivalent of over 8,000 homes a year and boost the UK's green energy capacity, said the organisation.
The plant also features innovative carbon capture technology, which collects carbon dioxide (CO2) produced during biomethane generation. This CO2 can either be reused in other industries or in the longer-term it can be permanently geologically sequestered underground, removing CO2 from the atmosphere.
Feedstock supplied to Moor Bioenergy will be crops sourced close to the plant, with local farmers supported to drive sustainable farming practices.
Five-year feedstock contracts will offer farmers greater financial security, helping to mitigate the challenges of fluctuating food crop prices and climate change.
Feedstock will be certified by International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) – an independent body which verifies that crops are traceable and grown in accordance with strict social and environmental criteria.
Liz Chatwin, VP, Global Sustainability and SHE at AstraZeneca, said, “We are committed to climate action and innovation in sustainability to decarbonise healthcare. By investing in unsubsidised biomethane capacity, we’re proud to contribute to reducing carbon emissions while strengthening the UK’s renewable energy infrastructure.”
Philipp Lukas, CEO of Future Biogas, said, "With the launch of Moor Bioenergy – the UK’s first unsubsidised biomethane facility in partnership with AstraZeneca – we are proving that innovation and bold vision can drive real change. This project is not only about generating clean, renewable gas, it’s a powerful call to all companies to decarbonise industrial gas and heat use."