Denmark's biogas sector supplied more than 40 per cent of the country's gas consumption last year, yet industry leaders warn the pace of expansion is failing to match the nation's growing energy needs.
New figures from Energinet reveal biogas has become a cornerstone of Danish energy infrastructure, but Lars Kaspersen, chief executive of Biogas Denmark, said the sector's growth trajectory falls dangerously short of what's required.
"The tempo in the expansion of biogas does not match the need," Kaspersen said. "In Denmark, we have the resources, the technology and a rising energy demand. The next step must be creating the necessary framework to increase production."
The warning comes as Denmark faces mounting pressure to strengthen energy security following threats to critical infrastructure and geopolitical instability.
Yet despite covering a substantial portion of gas consumption, Denmark's biogas potential remains largely untapped.
According to Biogas Denmark, the country possesses sufficient bio-resources to more than double current production levels simply by better utilising existing residual biomass.
The gap between potential and reality has become increasingly stark as Denmark's electricity consumption continues climbing through the electrification of industry, transport and heating.
Analysts warn that during periods of "dunkelflaute"—when wind and solar generation falter—the electricity supply grows more vulnerable as conventional power plants close.
"In an energy system increasingly dependent on wind, solar, and foreign connections, biogas plays a crucial role as storable and locally produced backup," Kaspersen said.
"Biogas is the energy source we can produce ourselves, store in large quantities, and draw upon when the electricity system is under pressure."
The 2025 figures mark what industry observers describe as a shift in the energy debate from percentages to function. Biogas has evolved from a contribution to green transition into what Kaspersen calls "a prerequisite for both green transition and security of supply."
Green gas can be stored in Danish gas storage facilities and deployed flexibly for electricity and heat production when needed, independent of weather conditions or international connections—a capability that has taken on new strategic importance.
"In a year where we have experienced threats to our energy infrastructure, biogas stands strengthened as a national energy source," Kaspersen said. "This makes biogas a strategic asset for Denmark."
Pace of Denmark’s biogas expansion “failing to keep up with demand”
