The biomethane market
In recent years, the biomethane sector in Italy has experienced significant growth, with particular attention focused on Sicily. Thanks to its agricultural vocation and favorable climatic conditions, this region is emerging as a new frontier for renewable energy production from organic sources.
Axpo and the New Plants in Sicily
A prominent example of this trend is represented by Axpo, Switzerland’s leading energy producer, which recently announced the acquisition of two projects for the construction of biomethane plants in Sicily. These facilities, located in Mazara del Vallo on the western coast and Paternò near Catania on the eastern coast, will each produce approximately 45 GWh of renewable energy per year. Construction work will begin in early 2025, with the goal of starting production in the second half of 2026.
The plants will primarily use waste from agricultural businesses and local enterprises, converting it into biomethane to be injected into the Italian national grid. This approach not only contributes to the decarbonization of the energy sector but also promotes a circular economy by enhancing agricultural residues and reducing waste.
Salvatore Pinto, President of Axpo Italia, added:
“Innovative energy technologies, such as biomethane, represent a key resource for accelerating the energy transition. Biomethane production facilitates the creation of new economic opportunities at the local level, stimulating employment and supporting agricultural enterprises. These projects highlight a growth strategy in the sector by the Axpo Group, once again positioning Italy as a key player.”
Other Biomethane Initiatives in Sicily
Axpo is not the only company investing in biomethane in Sicily. In 2022, Snam4Environment, a wholly owned subsidiary of Snam, inaugurated the first biomethane plant in Sicily derived from the organic fraction of municipal solid waste (FORSU) in Caltanissetta. This facility is capable of processing 36,000 tons of urban waste per year, producing biomethane to be fed into the national grid.
Additionally, Sicily is home to Italy’s first agricultural biomethane plant in a semi-desert area, located in Assoro. This project represents an innovative model for utilizing local agricultural resources for renewable energy production, contributing to the region’s sustainable development.
Why Sicily Attracts Biomethane Investments
The increasing interest of companies in Sicily for the development of biomethane plants can be attributed to several factors:
- Abundance of Biomass – With its strong agricultural tradition, Sicily generates a significant amount of agricultural and agro-industrial waste, which can be used as raw material for biomethane production.
- Favorable Climatic Conditions – The region’s mild climate supports agricultural activities throughout the year, ensuring a continuous supply of biomass.
- Incentives and Regional Policies – Local and national policies promote the adoption of renewable energy sources, offering incentives for the construction and operation of biomethane plants.
- Existing Infrastructure – The presence of a well-developed gas distribution network facilitates the direct injection of biomethane produced by the plants into the national grid.
Sicily is emerging as a strategic hub for biomethane production in Italy, thanks to significant investments from leading companies in the sector and its inherently favorable characteristics. This trend not only contributes to the country’s energy transition but also fosters economic and sustainable development for local communities.