European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Sumitomo and Skovgaard Form Biogas Joint Venture

At a glance
  • The joint venture aims to produce 40 million Nm³ of biogas annually.
  • Denmark targets a fully biogas-powered national gas grid by 2030.
  • e-SAF is produced from biomass-derived CO2 and green hydrogen.
  • Sumitomo's bioenergy projects include biomethane in Malaysia and Indonesia.

Joint Venture Overview

Sumitomo Corporation has partnered with Skovgaard Energy to form North Sky A/S, a joint venture focused on producing biogas and Power to X technologies, including e-SAF. The venture aims to produce approximately 40 million Nm³ of biogas annually, equivalent to the gas consumption of 20,000 Danish households. This initiative marks Sumitomo's first foray into biogas production and aligns with its Medium-Term Management Plan to expand its energy solutions division.

Denmark's Biogas Market

Denmark, an agricultural leader, is leveraging organic waste from farming to achieve carbon neutrality. The country plans to power its national gas grid entirely with biogas by 2030. Biogas, derived from organic waste like food residue and livestock manure, is gaining traction as a renewable energy source. The joint venture has secured a long-term raw materials supply agreement through 2032, ensuring a stable supply for biogas production.

e-SAF Development

Combining Sumitomo's European business network with Skovgaard Energy's expertise, the joint venture aims to expand biogas operations and develop e-SAF production. e-SAF, a synthetic fuel made from biomass-derived carbon dioxide and green hydrogen, is expected to see increased demand as it approaches commercialization.

Sumitomo's Bioenergy Initiatives

The Sumitomo Corporation Group views bioenergy as crucial for achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and fostering a sustainable energy cycle. The group is involved in various bioenergy projects, including biomethane production and sales in Malaysia and Indonesia. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to integrate renewable energy into its operations and contribute to global sustainability goals.