Castilla‑La Mancha strengthens biometano rules and green plant approval

The Junta de Castilla‑La Mancha announced a draft decree that would give the region the most stringent EU‑level guarantees for biometano projects. The proposal, highlighted by Sustainable Development Minister Mercedes Gómez, would let municipal councils decide on plant siting, require installations to be at least two kilometres from urban centres, and demand that 80 % of feedstock come from within a 35‑kilometre radius. Strict controls on odour, sealed waste handling and impermeable storage tanks are also mandated.

In parallel, the Talavera de la Reina biometano plant received a favourable environmental declaration from the regional authority. The facility, to be built in Hinojar, will process about 240 000 tonnes of organic waste per year, converting it into renewable gas and fertiliser. The approval includes rigorous measures on odour, emissions, soil and water protection, and requires closed‑loop transport and covered storage to minimise environmental impact.

Both steps aim to boost circular‑economy energy production while addressing local concerns over waste handling and environmental quality.