Developing methanization: Grand Besançon Métropole, a technical operator and a citizen investment fund join forces
Solution WorkshopRenewable energies and networks
2026-06-23 | 03:30 PM - 04:30 PM | Santenay Hall
Information
A workshop offered by Grand Besançon Métropole & Opale Energies Engagées .
Animation:
- Manoël DEVIS, Grand Besançon Métropole
- Antony JOLY, Grand Besançon Métropole
- Maëva DEMARCHI, Opale Energies Engagées
- Chloé QUINONERO, Shared Energy
In its Territorial Climate Air Energy Plan , the Greater Besançon Metropolitan Area (GBM) has set itself the objective of becoming a positive energy territory by 2050. This translates into a dual dynamic: reduction of energy consumption and development of renewable energies.
As the owner of the gas distribution network, GBM aims to replace fossil gas with biomethane. Anaerobic digestion therefore has a fundamental role to play in the region's energy and decarbonization goals.
Two actions were decided upon:
- -drafting of a Charter enabling the community to take a position on any methanization project, whether it is a stakeholder or not;
- implementation of a Call for Expressions of Interest to encourage the establishment of two methanization units.
Following the call for expressions of interest (AMI), GBM and Opale Energies Engagées formalized their relationship through an agreement. This agreement was opened to the citizen investment fund Energie Partagée Investissement in anticipation of the creation of dedicated project companies. The governance and financing of the project are thus shared, with a significant role given to local stakeholders.
In terms of the timeline, the first application for authorization will be submitted at the end of 2026.
The workshop details the community's motivations for getting directly involved in methanization projects, the steps taken to achieve the partnership, and the studies underway.