The National Markets and Competition Commission (CNMC) has ratified a new regulation that will streamline and make more transparent the processes of biomethane connection. In this way, they will be able to integrate the correct supervision into their plants, into the national gas infrastructure, under the guidelines required by this energy sector.
Biomethane connection: the new regulations
Since January of this year, when the CNMC, under the direction of Cani Fernández, put this proposed regulation up for public consultation, the observations of 32 actors in the sector have been considered and the assessment of the Ministry for the Ecological Transition and the Demographic Challenge. This process has allowed us to adjust and refine the final resolution.
Likewise, it is established that the managers of the gas transportation and distribution networks must maintain the confidentiality of the data provided by the applicants during the connection process, as stipulated by Law 34/1998 of the Hydrocarbon Sector . Furthermore, these managers may request financial compensation to cover the costs of preparing the connection budget, with a limit of 3,000 euros, an amount that will be previously informed and regulated.
Management of requests for biomethane connection
Regarding the management of requests, if a connection request is rejected, the initial payment will be refunded; If accepted, this amount will be deducted from the total cost of the project. If the applicant does not approve the proposed budget, the initial payment will not be refunded.
Additionally, every year before February 15, network administrators must report to the CNMC a summary of all biomethane plant connection requests received until the end of the previous year , detailing their specifications and the progress of each request. .
Boost for biomethane in reducing emissions
Biomethane, obtained from urban and agricultural waste, is crucial to move towards a renewable energy model, reduce dependence on fossil fuels and align with the decarbonization objectives of the European Union and the National Integrated Energy and Climate Plan. In 2023, the nine biomethane plants connected to the grid generated 243 GWh, showing an increase of 40% compared to the previous year.
Considering the increase in biomethane production and its significant contribution to the sustainable energy strategy, it is essential to continue investing in new technologies that optimize the conversion of waste into biogas. This will not only improve energy efficiency but also promote a circular economy in the agricultural and urban sector.
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Source: elperiodicodelaenergia.com
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