Nature Energy’s Green Biogas Vision
Nature Energy, originally established in 1979 as Naturgas Fyn, has a long-standing history in the energy sector. Formed through a collaboration of municipalities in Funen County, it became Denmark’s first supplier of natural gas to local households.
In response to two major oil crises during the 1970s, the Danish Parliament passed legislation in 1979 to introduce natural gas across Denmark. Naturgas Fyn was founded as one of five regional companies, beginning the development of the Funen gas network by 1981.
In 2015, Nature Energy launched its first biogas plant in Holsted. Today, it is one of the world’s largest biogas producers, operating 13 plants across Denmark and one in the Netherlands, with several more projects underway.
Advancing the Green Transition
In 2022, Nature Energy’s plants processed over 4.7 million tonnes of biomass, generating more than 185 million cubic meters of green gas. This volume could power nearly 8,200 buses for 30,000 miles annually or heat 160,000 homes.
By efficiently converting biomass from industries, agriculture, and households into carbon-neutral gas, Nature Energy contributes significantly to the green transition. After processing, the degassed biomass is returned to the agricultural sector as nutrient-rich fertilizer, promoting circular economy principles. The company also prioritizes minimizing disruptions to local communities near its plants.
CEO Ole Hvelplund explains: “Our process mirrors how fossil natural gas formed millions of years ago. We use various organic waste types, from agricultural and industrial byproducts to household waste. The material undergoes anaerobic fermentation, breaking down into methane and carbon dioxide. The resulting biogas is utilized, and the byproduct is returned to farmers as fertilizer, sustaining a circular economy.”
Nature Energy continues to invest heavily in research, especially at its Odense laboratory, focusing on improving technology for energy extraction and enhancing fertilizer quality. The lab is also exploring alternative biomasses to further expand green, carbon-neutral energy production.
Expanding to New Markets
Nature Energy’s commitment to sustainable energy extends beyond Denmark. The company is planning significant investments in large-scale biogas plants across Europe and North America.
Ole elaborates: “We have around 30 projects in development across Europe and North America, particularly in Denmark, the Netherlands, and France. We’re also exploring markets in Italy, Poland, and Sweden.”
Strategic Growth and Partnerships
Recently, Nature Energy’s former owners, NGF Partnership, completed a sale process in which Shell acquired the company. Shell’s vision aligns with Nature Energy’s growth aspirations, enhancing its role in the global biomethane market.
In Canada, Nature Energy is partnering with Énergir to develop biomethane plants capable of producing 200 million cubic meters of biogas annually, contributing to Quebec’s 2030 carbon reduction goals.
“This partnership strengthens our presence in Canada,” says Ole. “We’ll produce a stable supply of green gas and high-quality fertilizer, fostering circular energy production alongside local agricultural and business communities.”
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on market dynamics, Ole notes: “2022 was an unprecedented year, though the market has since stabilized. We anticipate consistent price levels moving forward.”
Nature Energy’s capabilities in large-scale biogas production are vital for addressing climate challenges. Biogas, alongside solar and wind energy, is a crucial natural resource that contributes to significant carbon reductions in industry, agriculture, and transport.
“We foresee greater integration of natural energy sources like biogas with solar and wind,” Ole continues. “We’re also exploring biomethane-powered transport options and expect to see testing with trucks soon.”
Concluding, Ole adds, “In five years, we aim to be a leading force in waste-to-value energy solutions, with a growing workforce and an expanded global presence, continuing to champion the green transition.”