“Gasification represents a dual benefit,” explains Anastasiya Agapova, EBA Technical and Project Officer. “It provides a reliable and sustainable energy source while offering a circular economy solution by recycling waste materials, reducing landfill use, and mitigating environmental pollution. Additionally, it offers a promising pathway for biomethane production by processing hard-to-digest biomass streams.
"The syngas produced can be upgraded through a variety of processes into diverse end products, including pure methane — known as biomethane — unlocking even greater potential for renewable energy applications.”
According to the EBA white paper, Gasification: diversification of biomass processing and waste utilization, Europe is currently home to approximately 141 biomass and waste gasification installations, with an additional 54 projects under development. Germany leads the way with 61 installations, while France, Finland, and Italy are also emerging as significant contributors to this growing market.
The potential for gasification in Europe is significant, with estimates indicating a production capacity of 37 billion cubic meters (bcm) by 2040, representing 33% of the total biomethane production potential (111 bcm). This highlights gasification as a critical component in diversifying and expanding biomethane production across the region.
Based on current estimates, Europe could avoid 536 million tons of CO2 emissions annually, provide renewable energy to 100 million European households year-round, or fuel 2 million LNG trucks annually.
The biomass and waste gasification market presents significant opportunities for growth and investment. The continued development and adoption of advanced gasification technologies, supported by favorable policies and public-private partnerships, are essential for realizing the full potential of this market.
