Biogas facility construction set to begin in Nurmo, Finland after support secured

The biogas plant in Nurmo requires at least ten agricultural producers to supply the necessary raw materials. The project leaders are not disclosing the exact number of contracts established but confirm that there is still room for more participants. The farms involved are primarily cattle and pig operations, whose manure will be transported to Nurmo. In addition to manure, the plant can utilize crop biomass and byproducts from Atria’s production.

The construction of the Nurmo biogas facility was initially announced in December 2018, when the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment granted it €9 million in support. Recent news confirms that construction is finally set to begin.

Local farmer Ari Teppo, who has been part of the project from the outset, expressed enthusiasm about the development. He highlighted the clear benefits for farms, such as Suomen Lantakaasu collecting manure from the farms, processing it into liquefied biogas, and returning a nutrient-rich fertilizer to the farms. Teppo noted that the processed manure is odorless and easier to spread, particularly near residential areas, and it is improved for plant absorption, potentially increasing crop yields.

While Teppo’s farm currently has manure recipients, he believes that benefits from the biogas plant will also be financial. Although many farms have built their biogas facilities in recent years, Teppo chose not to pursue this route, citing reduced risk through participation in an external company’s operations.

Despite the expected advantages, some local farmers remain hesitant about joining, with discussions ongoing but contracts not yet signed. The recent investment decision may encourage participation. The market for biogas is beginning to take shape, driven by growing demand for renewable energy solutions, with the Finnish government being urged for clearer guidance on subsidies and distribution mandates. Finland aims to build several biogas facilities across the country, with funding from the EU on the horizon.