Industrial park-based hub

The most significant potential uses for biogas in the Central Ostrobothnia biogas hub are in industrial, energy production, and transportation applications. The planned LNG network in the Kokkola Industrial Park (KIP) facilitates the utilization of biogas by major industrial clients such as Hycamite, Yara, and Sibanye-Stillwater Keliber. Additionally, there is interest in developing refueling stations for heavy road transport in the area.

The large biogas plant planned in Kannus, along with potential LBG (liquefied biogas) production, opens new opportunities for transportation use and methanol production. Similarly, the large biogas plant planned for Kaustinen enables LBG production. These investmea strong foundation for expanding biogas production. Other municipalities in Central Ostrobothnia, such as Toholampi and Veteli, also show potential for biogas use in road transportation and heat production.

Currently, there are six biogas plants operating in Central Ostrobothnia, including the WeKas Oy biogas plant, which features a CNG refueling station, and the Pohjanmaan Biokaasu Oy biogas plant in the KIP area. Most existing production facilities are integrated with agriculture, supporting agricultural activities.

The region’s biomass and manure resources enable a significant increase in biogas production capacity, supporting sustainable development and the circular economy. The digestate produced as a byproduct of biogas production can be processed into recycled fertilizers, which support agricultural operations and the circular economy.

 

Reports linked to this hub

WP2 Analysis of biogas production and use potential, and emission calculation of biogas production and use – Central Ostrobothnia region (Executive summary available in English, full text in Finnish)