Report: “Biogas Potential in Chile”
The report prepared by academics and professionals at the UC Energy Center, analyzes the current state of this renewable energy source and sets out concrete goals for its development in the country.
In April, the UC Energy Center released the report “Biogas Potential in Chile,” a document that examines the role of this energy source in the transition toward a more sustainable and resilient energy mix.
The report notes that biogas—produced through the anaerobic digestion of organic waste—currently accounts for only 0.2% of the national primary energy mix, indicating a low level of development compared to international standards. However, the study identifies significant room for growth, considering that the country generates more than 11 million tons of organic waste per year, with a theoretical production capacity of nearly 14 TWh annually.
Internationally, the report highlights the progress made by countries such as Germany, China, and Denmark, which have established biogas as a significant component of their energy mixes, positioning themselves as models for Chile.
However, the document warns that biogas development faces significant challenges. These include high investment and operating costs, limited distribution infrastructure—with low gas network coverage nationwide—and regulatory and social barriers associated with waste management.
Given this scenario, the report proposes a target of achieving a 3% share of biogas in the energy mix, along with measures such as installing plants in urban areas near waste sources and promoting logistics solutions for biomethane transportation in rural areas.
Furthermore, the study highlights the strategic value of biogas, not only as a waste management tool but also as a source capable of providing flexibility and stability to the electricity system, especially in a context of growing penetration of variable renewable energy sources.
The report was developed by an interdisciplinary team comprising:
Camila Méndez Velásquez, Research Associate, UC Energy Center
Néstor Escalona, Director of Graduate Studies, UC School of Engineering
Álvaro Videla, Director of the Department of Mining, UC School of Engineering
Arturo Morandé, Coordinator, UC Energy Center
Vanesa Roa, Executive Assistant, UC Energy Center
