AGR Biogas starts construction of first biomethane plant in Andalusia

AGR Biogas on April 29 announced the initiation of construction for the inaugural biogas plant with biomethane injection in Andalusia, Spain. 

With an approximate investment of €25mn, the project receives major backing of nearly €20mn from ING Bank. This financing arrangement represents the first of its kind for a biomethane project in Spain, the company said

Situated in the municipality of La Calahorra, Granada, the plant will boast a total treatment capacity of approximately 100,000 tonnes/year, primarily sourced from livestock and olive groves in the surrounding areas. This capacity will enable the production of 58 GWh/year of energy in biomethane, facilitating a reduction of 23,000 tonnes/year of CO2, equivalent to the emissions of 6,500 cars in Spain, AGR said.

Furthermore, the plant will yield digestate, a fertilizer that promotes sustainable agricultural practices and fosters efficient nutrient cycling. 

Beyond environmental advantages, the project will bolster rural economies by diversifying economic activities and creating direct and indirect employment opportunities. Collaborating with 44 farming families and numerous agri-food companies in the region, the plant anticipates stimulating local growth and fostering community resilience, according to the company.

"With the commencement of construction at Calahorra, we tangibly embark on our strategic plan, encompassing a portfolio of over 30 projects in Spain and Portugal, with a primary focus on Andalusia. In the coming months, we aim to initiate construction on at least two additional plants in Andalusia," said David Pinero, general director of AGR Biogas.