In future, a farm will also be eligible for support for investment in a biogas plant if part of the energy produced is sold off the farm for use in non-agricultural production activities. This change may contribute to improving the profitability of such projects and thereby encourage a shift towards domestic renewable energy while contributing to security of supply.
Biogas plants offer a sustainable and efficient way for farms to use manure, crop residues and other organic by-streams for energy production. In Finland, farms can receive significant investment aid for the construction of a biogas plant, making the project even more attractive.
Investment aid is granted through the Food Authority and applications are made electronically through the Hyrrä service. The aid can be up to 50% of eligible costs, and from the beginning of 2026, energy sold out will also be eligible. This change removes a previous restriction that prevented many profitable projects and opens up new opportunities for energy entrepreneurship on farms. The ELY Centres will provide advice and assistance in the application process.
Applicants should prepare a business plan and contact the ELY Centre in their region before submitting their application. Aid can be granted to individual farmers, associations or consortia of farmers. The investment must be worth at least EUR 7 000 and the applicant must be at least 18 years old. No specific training in agriculture is required for energy investments.
A biogas plant can produce energy for the farm’s own use, such as heating and electricity production, or it can be sold out, for example as transport fuel. In addition, the plants support nutrient recycling and reduce emissions, contributing to both the economic sustainability of the farm and environmental objectives.