Germany announces “comprehensive biomass package”

Germany's Federal Economics Minister Robert Habeck has announced a 'comprehensive biomass package' for the country.
He told the German Press Agency that biogas can continue to play an important role in the future energy system.
"On the one hand, plants are part of heating or building networks. On the other hand, biogas can be used flexibly. In other words, precisely when there is little wind and no sunshine."
The reform should also reduce the cost of receivables, he said.
In the first half of this year, 9% of Germany's total electricity consumption was generated from biomass, with around 58% coming from renewable energies.
Between 2004 and 2011, there was a strong increase in biomass in electricity generation, explained a spokesperson for the Ministry of Economic Affairs.
"Since then, many have been actively and innovatively involved locally, for example by making climate-damaging liquid manure usable as electricity or building heating networks."
For many, however, the demand ends after 20 years, the interest in tenders for a subsequent demand is much greater than the supply.
"Many plant operators and their heating customers are worried about their future. We see these concerns."
However, biomass is a limited and valuable resource that needs to be used strategically, according to the Ministry.
It said the future requirement should give prioritise plants that are connected to a heating or building network.
Plants that produce flexibly according to demand are to receive more demand.
In addition, money will only be paid for times of day when electricity is needed.
Those who want to switch from the old demand system to the new one should also be able to do so during an ongoing demand period.
The proposals are to become part of the planned reform of the so-called Energy Industry Act.