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22 Oct 2025

Louth poised to lead Ireland’s biomethane revolution, says TD

Erin McGreehan says her comments are backed by the 2023 Biomethane Energy Report

Louth poised to lead Ireland’s biomethane revolution, says TD

Biomethane, a carbon-neutral renewable gas, is produced from organic materials such as farm waste, food waste and landfill.

Reporter:

Jason Newman

22 Oct 2025 10:03 AM

Fianna Fáil TD for Louth, Erin McGreehan, has said that “Louth is sitting on an untapped opportunity to be part of Ireland’s green transition” highlighting the county’s potential to play a central role in the development of Ireland’s emerging biomethane industry.
Deputy McGreehan’s remarks follow last week’s announcement that Gas Networks Ireland has partnered with Evergreen Agricultural Enterprises to connect a new €50 million biomethane production plant in Monasterevin, Co. Kildare, directly to the national gas network, marking a milestone for Ireland’s renewable energy ambitions.
Speaking Deputy McGreehan said:
“The potential in this sector is enormous. Biomethane represents a key component in our transition to a green future, offering multimillion-euro investment potential and the creation of sustainable local jobs.
“Louth, with its strong agricultural base and existing infrastructure, is perfectly positioned to be at the centre of this opportunity.”
The Louth TD says her comments are backed by the 2023 Biomethane Energy Report, which identified two potential biomethane projects in County Louth. The report highlighted the county’s strong agricultural and waste resources as ideal foundations for the development of renewable gas production.
Biomethane, a carbon-neutral renewable gas, is produced from organic materials such as farm waste, food waste and landfill. Structurally identical to natural gas, it can be used with the existing national gas network and compatible appliances, meaning it can directly replace fossil gas for heating, transport, industry and power generation.
“The opportunity is clear,” she continued. “With the right framework we can turn farm and food waste into clean energy, create local jobs and cut carbon emissions all while strengthening Ireland’s energy independence. We must be ambitious about our energy security.”
The Government’s National Biomethane Strategy targets up to 5.7 TWh of biomethane production by 2030, equivalent to around 10% of national gas demand. Meeting this goal would require between 140 and 250 new anaerobic digestion plants nationwide.
Deputy McGreehan said that the success of this strategy will require continued work on addressing key barriers including consistent planning guidelines, the accelerated rollout of the Renewable Heat Obligation and clear sustainability standards.
Biogas and biomethane, she added, are not distant technologies, they are ready, proven and waiting for the right support to scale.

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