AQW 35527/22-27

Mr David Honeyford
Alliance Party
Lagan Valley

Tabled Date: 14/11/2025
Answered On Date: 24/11/2025
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on the development of a biomethane policy.

Answer:

My Department is continuing to progress its biomethane actions as part of the 2025 Energy Strategy action plan including progressing support mechanisms, consulting on options for gas network connection costs, and investigating standards/certifications.

Work is ongoing to analyse a range of options aimed at addressing the costs for biomethane producers connecting to the gas network. Additionally, following a Call for Evidence on gas quality standards, the Department is reviewing responses to identify a preferred policy approach to the level of permitted oxygen content for gas entering the distribution or transmission networks. A joint public consultation on the treatment of connection costs and gas quality standards is planned for early 2026.

Alongside this, my Department will continue to collaborate with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), the Utility Regulator, and other key stakeholders to support the development of a sustainable biomethane sector.