Northern Ireland ministers launch consultation on future of renewable gas
Northern Ireland ministers have launched a public consultation on developing a sustainable renewable gas industry, with the potential to create jobs, support farmers and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald and Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir announced the consultation on Tuesday 20 October.
The Biomethane Strategy and Policy Framework consultation seeks views on how Northern Ireland could develop a sustainable biomethane sector while protecting consumers and the environment.
The consultation will remain open until 15 December 2026.
What is biomethane and how could it benefit Northern Ireland?
Biomethane is a renewable gas produced through the breakdown of organic materials, including agricultural manure and other waste products, in an oxygen-free environment.
The process, known as anaerobic digestion, produces biogas that can be upgraded into biomethane.
The resulting gas can be used as an alternative to natural gas, potentially helping to reduce carbon emissions from heating homes and businesses.
It can also be used to generate electricity or as a transport fuel.
Northern Ireland’s substantial agricultural and agri-food sectors could provide a source of materials for biomethane production.
Ministers highlight potential for jobs and investment
The consultation was launched during the Northern Ireland Renewable Gas Conference 2026, where more than 200 representatives from the renewable gas sector gathered to discuss the industry’s future.
Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald said developing biomethane sustainably could create economic opportunities, particularly in rural communities.
She highlighted its potential to support investment, employment and Northern Ireland’s wider agricultural supply chain.
However, the Minister stressed that any future industry must deliver benefits for consumers while supporting economic growth and environmental protection.
The consultation will help inform government policy on how the sector could develop.
Environmental concerns and Lough Neagh
Agriculture Minister Andrew Muir said Northern Ireland’s existing anaerobic digestion industry provides a foundation for further development.
However, he warned that environmental safeguards must remain central to any future biomethane strategy.
The Minister highlighted declining water quality and excess nutrients affecting Northern Ireland’s rivers, lakes and loughs, particularly Lough Neagh.
He said the development of a biomethane industry must contribute to positive environmental outcomes without creating unintended consequences.
Managing agricultural nutrients and protecting waterways will therefore be important considerations as the government develops its policy.
Northern Ireland’s renewable energy ambitions
The consultation forms part of wider efforts to reduce carbon emissions and increase the use of renewable energy across Northern Ireland.
The Department for the Economy previously conducted a call for evidence in 2024 to gather information about biomethane production and the challenges facing the industry.
An interdepartmental group involving the Department for the Economy, DAERA and the Utility Regulator has also been examining how future policy could support the sector.
The latest consultation delivers a commitment included in Northern Ireland’s Energy Strategy Action Plan 2026.
How to respond to the consultation
The Biomethane Strategy and Policy Framework consultation opened on Tuesday 20 October and will close on Tuesday 15 December 2026.
The government is seeking views on developing the sector sustainably, including its potential contribution to renewable energy, agricultural resilience and environmental protection.
Further information and consultation documents are available through the Department for the Economy’s official website.
External link: Ministers launch consultation on future of biomethane in Northern Ireland
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