Our Business
Why Anaerobic Digestion?
Anaerobic Digestion is one of the most effective and proven technologies for producing renewable energy. It works by breaking down organic materials such as food waste, agricultural residues, and slurry in oxygen-free conditions. This natural process produces two valuable outputs: renewable biomethane and a nutrient-rich organic fertiliser known as digestate.
The UK currently imports over 40 percent of its natural gas, making energy security a national concern. At the same time, methane emissions from food and agricultural waste are one of the most harmful greenhouse gases, more than eighty times more damaging than carbon dioxide in the short term. Anaerobic Digestion directly addresses both challenges: it captures methane that would otherwise escape into the atmosphere, and it produces renewable gas that reduces the UK’s dependence on imports.
Government policy strongly supports AD, with the Green Gas Support Scheme guaranteeing inflation-linked tariffs for 20 years. The market is expanding rapidly, valued at over £2.3 billion today and expected to double by 2030. For these reasons, AD is becoming an essential part of the UK’s Net Zero strategy.
Our Model
At Community Gas Partners, we follow a carefully de-risked development model designed to ensure that projects are deliverable, financially viable, and supported by the communities in which they are built.
In the first phase, we identify suitable sites and secure land options. We then map and contract sources of feedstock, such as food and farm waste, and obtain grid or gas connection agreements. We carry out environmental screenings, commission surveys, and prepare initial layouts, all while engaging early with local authorities and residents. This ensures that potential issues are addressed upfront and that communities understand the benefits the project can bring.
In the second phase, we progress projects through the planning system. This includes detailed engineering design, submission of full planning applications, and securing permits from the Environment Agency. We also apply for and lock in long-term revenues under the Green Gas Support Scheme. Once these milestones are achieved, projects are positioned for onward sale or long-term build-out, providing a clear path to delivery.
This structured, phased approach allows us to reduce risk at every stage while maximising the environmental and economic benefits for stakeholders.