Norway should take the lead in biogas production in the Nordic region

On 16th April 2024, Ragn-Sells handed over a letter to the Norwegian Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy, Cecilie Myrseth, with a clear vision: Norway has the potential to become a leading nation in biogas production in the Nordic region.

"If we are serious about creating a sustainable society, we must use the resources we already have, over and over again. Failing to utilise the availability of raw materials and not having an engaged industry to drive the rapid development of biogas production in Europe feels irresponsible," says Ole Arthur Vaage, Product Development Manager at Ragn-Sells Aquaculture.

One of Norway's unique resources that can contribute to lifting the nation to a leading position in biogas is fish sludge, which is currently released into the fjords during the production of farmed fish. The potential for biogas production from fish sludge alone is enormous, with estimates of up to 3 TWh, which could increase to 6 TWh within ten years. This would position Norway as a frontrunner among our neighbouring countries.

In addition to having access to raw materials, Norway has the necessary infrastructure and distribution network in place to support biogas production and thereby replacing fossil fuels.

"The decision on the future of biogas in Norway now lies with the politicians, and the first step is to include biogas in the upcoming strategy. With support from politicians, biogas can create new jobs and strengthen the Norwegian economy," concludes Ole Arthur Vaage, Product Development Manager at Ragn-Sells Aquaculture.

The letter delivered to the Norwegian Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy, Cecilie Myrseth, on 16th April 2024 also outlines the challenges and need for change that Ragn-Sells highlights to enable Norway to take a leading position in biogas. In summary, clear goals and incentives are needed to promote biogas production, as well as regulations and support for industries with significant access to organic waste. A long-term programme to ensure the supply of organic waste and increased support for the processing of biowaste are also essential to promote the growth and sustainability of the biogas industry.

For more information, please contact:
Ole Arthur Vaage, Product Development Manager at Ragn-Sells Aquaculture, +4790035298, ole.arthur.vaage@ragnsells.com
Pär Larshans, Chief Sustainability Officer, Ragn-Sells Group, +46709272963, par.larshans@ragnsells.com 
Emma Ranerfors, Press officer, Ragn-Sells, +46709272426, press@ragnsells.com 

Fact: Ragn-Sells' four points to the Norwegian Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy

For Norway to take the lead in biogas in the Nordics, we rely on means such as:

1. Clear and binding goals for the use and production of biogas
   • Strengthened incentives for the construction and operation of facilities.
   • Strengthened tax benefits for the purchase and use of biogas.

2. Regulation and support for industries with large volumes of input factors
   • Requirements in permits under the Pollution Control Act for energy use for certain types of organic waste.
   • Support for collection solutions for industries with access to input factors.

3. Long-term programme for delivery support
   • Support for measures ensuring that organic waste is delivered to biogas production.

4. Increased support for processing of biowaste
   • Support for sustainable processing of biowaste into high-quality materials and nutrients.