The USAID Energy Security Project and Bioenergy Association of Ukraine organized a roundtable on Biomethane production in Ukraine.
In her opening remarks, Kathleen Kirsch, Deputy Director, Office of Critical Infrastructure, USAID/Ukraine, noted that the round table summarized the Training Program on Biomethane production in Ukraine conducted throughout January and February.
“Today, we`re excited to host Ukrainian experts and policymakers, focusing on biomethane`s role in Ukraine`s sustainable energy future. Throughout this series, we`ve delved into biomethane`s production, policy, and potential for energy independence. This discussion aims to consolidate our insights, highlighting practical steps, challenges, and innovative strategies for advancing biomethane in Ukraine”, said Kathleen Kirsch.
Member of Parliament Andrii Zhupanin emphasized the potential economic benefits of biomethane as a valuable export for Ukraine. Mr. Zhupanin highlighted that there are numerous urgent matters on the agenda of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, however, the importance of biomethane is acknowledged and considered by policymakers. He credited all the stakeholders, including the USAID ESP, for their commendable efforts in advancing biomethane initiatives. Looking towards the future, Mr. Zhupanin anticipated the possibility of celebrating Ukraine`s inaugural biomethane export in the upcoming year.
Svitlana Grinchuk, Deputy Minister of Energy, highlighted the importance of biomethane for Ukraine and assured the audience of the Ministry`s full support and readiness for further cooperation with the USAID ESP in this sphere.
Viktor Bilko, Deputy Head of The State Agency for Energy Efficiency and Energy Saving of Ukraine (SAEE), mentioned that biomethane poses strategic importance in terms of energy independence and energy security for our country. “The European community sees Ukraine as an important partner in achieving the 35 billion cubic meters of biomethane per year production target set under the REPowerEU Plan.” Rafael Monroy, USAID ESP’s Global Clean Hydrogen Advisor, summarized the results of the training sessions: “During our five training modules, we delved into various aspects of biomethane technology, exploring cutting-edge technologies for upgrading biogas to biomethane. The discussions covered the advantages of engaging in the biomethane business with the EU, certification processes, water impact, mobility and transport applications, and practical business cases. The sessions were characterized by insightful questions, and overall, I am delighted with the positive outcomes and enthusiasm displayed throughout the event”, added Rafael Monroy.
Justin Goonesinghe, Gas Team Lead of USAID ESP, concluded the roundtable with his final remarks. He thanked the organizers and the participants, underlining that the training sessions gathered an impressive number of attendees and very positive feedback.
“Thanks to everyone who took part in this training program. We had over 500 registrants, between 200 and 300 participants during each training session, more than 140 of which received certificates, demonstrating a high level of engagement and interest in the topic”, said Justin Goonesinghe.
You can access the materials of the training sessions by following this link: https://energysecurityua.org/presentations/