Details
- Publication date
- 6 February 2026
- Author
- Joint Research Centre
Description
The European Union bioenergy sector is a pillar of the EU’s green ambitions, generating a turnover of over €32 billion and supporting 304,000 jobs. This report covers solid biomass fuels, bioliquids and biogases for heat and power generation. It does not include liquid biofuels for transport, which are the subject of the CETO report on advanced biofuels in the EU. A key trend is the tenfold increase in biomethane production since 2011. Another key trend is the shift to sustainable feedstocks such as waste and agricultural residues, supported by EU legislation. In heating and cooling, bioenergy provided 75% of all renewable energy and it accounted for almost 20% of total consumption in the EU in 2023. In 2014-2024, the EU had a trade deficit in biomass feedstocks and bioenergy carriers. The EU is the world leader in high-value inventions related to bioenergy technologies. In 2024, the EU attracted 77% of global venture capital. This report highlights the key role of the bioenergy sector in achieving the objectives of the European Green Deal and REPowerEU. Sustainable biogas and biomethane technologies are among the technologies for achieving climate neutrality listed in the Net-Zero Industry Act. To ensure a competitive clean energy future, the EU must accelerate technology deployment and develop its leadership in innovation.
