The Decisio™ platform reveals massive cost-saving potential in UK Biogas Sector
New research using BMA’s Decisio™ platform, in partnership with ADBA (the Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association), shows that expanding biogas and biomethane in the UK could unlock £298 billion in energy system savings — cutting Net Zero costs by more than £400 a year for every British household.
New research using BMA’s Decisio™ platform, in partnership with ADBA (Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association), has revealed the significant cost-saving potential of biogas and biomethane expansion in the UK. The analysis shows that expanding these sustainable technologies could create £298 billion in energy system savings, with Net Zero costs reduced by more than £400 annually for every British household.
Groundbreaking analysis
The study, entitled “The Role of Green Gas in Net Zero”, was conducted by BMA using our AI-assisted Decisio™ whole energy planning system. It provides compelling evidence that the cost of meeting Britain’s Net Zero targets in 2050 could be nearly £300 billion less than official projections. The analysis draws on the same computer modelling framework used by the UK’s Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) and the National Energy System Operator (NESO).
Key findings
Our analysis identified several significant opportunities for cost reduction:
- A potential saving of £415 per household annually through increased use of home-grown renewable green gas
- £22 billion in capital and operating cost savings by 2030 in the clean power system
- £36 billion reduction in offshore wind investment — an 18% decrease
- £10.5 billion reduction in onshore wind investment — a 36% decrease
- Additional savings across nuclear power, transmission investment and hydrogen production
The role of Green Gas
Green gas, produced from organic matter including food waste, farm manures, industrial waste, energy crops and wastewater sewage sludge, plays a crucial role in these potential savings. Its value comes from its ability to maintain power supply during periods of low wind and solar generation, reducing the need for more expensive investment in intermittent renewables.
System integration and storage
Biomethane offers significant advantages as a sustainable energy source:
- Easy storage capability within the existing gas grid
- Potential storage in facilities such as the former Rough gas wells in the North Sea
- Efficient conversion to hydrogen with minimal losses
- A reliable backup for intermittent renewable sources
Expert perspective
Chris Huhne, Chair of ADBA, said:
“Biomethane is the big green battery that can keep us warm and well-lit in the dark winters more cheaply than other identified pathways to Net Zero. This study is a wake-up call to look at more cost-effective options for Net Zero.”
Chris Huhne, Chair, ADBA
See Chris Huhne of ADBA in conversation with Michael Avant-Smith of BMA, as they discuss the role of Green Gas in Net Zero and how Decisio™ has helped demonstrate its potential within the whole energy system.
Looking forward
The study’s findings suggest a more cost-effective path to Net Zero than previously thought. While the future energy landscape will still be predominantly electric, the integration of Green Gas provides a more resilient and economical approach to maintaining a consistent power supply.
For more information about how Decisio™ offers a digital solution to these challenges, contact us. Our platform provides a secure, cloud-based environment where utilities can visualise complex systems and evaluate strategic options across organisational boundaries — helping companies achieve greater operational efficiency, more effective capital investment and improved environmental outcomes, all while maintaining focus on customer affordability.
Download your copy of the report
Enter your details to download the 24-page report featuring Decisio™ analysis comparing NESO’s 2024 Pathways to Net Zero with cost-optimised green gas alternatives, and discover how our modelling identifies £298 billion in potential savings.
