Three Questions to Markus Last, energie schwaben

What role could biomethane and other renewable gases play in Bavaria’s future energy supply? In this interview, Markus Last of energie schwaben explains the opportunities he sees in a green gas quota, how he assesses Bavaria’s biomethane potential, and which policy frameworks he believes are needed to support further expansion.

1. What role will the green gas quota play in Bavaria?
   
   The green gas quota could provide important momentum for the next phase of the energy transition in Bavaria and in our supply area, Bavarian Swabia. Following substantial progress in expanding renewable electricity generation, the task now is to make the gas supply climate-neutral as well. Bavaria is well placed to achieve this, with robust gas infrastructure, a strong agricultural sector and extensive experience in biogas. The green gas quota can encourage investment in biomethane, hydrogen and other renewable gases if it provides a reliable and predictable framework.
   
2. What potential does Bavaria have for using biomethane?
   
   Biomethane offers significant opportunities. It can be stored, transported and used flexibly, for example to provide heat, generate electricity or support industrial processes. It therefore complements other renewable energy sources and enhances security of supply. At the same time, regional production generates economic value in rural areas and reduces dependence on fossil fuel imports. We see particularly strong potential in feeding biomethane into existing gas networks. The infrastructure is already in place, and the technology is proven. We estimate that biomethane could meet up to 25 per cent of gas consumption.
   
   
3. In your view, what is needed for renewable gases to make a greater contribution to a secure, affordable and climate-friendly energy supply in the future?
   
   For renewable gases to make an even greater contribution to a secure energy supply, we need reliable policy frameworks and faster permitting and grid connection procedures. Maintaining and further developing the existing gas infrastructure is equally important. Gas networks enable biomethane and hydrogen to be transported, stored and used flexibly.
   
   The energy transition will only succeed through a combination of different technologies. Renewable gases complement renewable electricity where flexibility, seasonal storage or applications that are difficult to electrify are required. For Bavaria, this means greater security of supply, more regional economic value and additional options for a sustainable energy supply. Biomethane and other renewable gases will therefore play an important role in the energy system of the future.