Thuringia’s Biogas Plants Fight for Survival as Subsidies Vanish by 2027

Farmers in Thuringia warn of a green energy collapse as federal cuts push biogas plants to the brink. Without urgent reform, climate goals—and livelihoods—hang in the balance.

, and Administrator

2025 November 19 . 5:14 AM

1 min read

The climate is very pleasant, there is a sea and in front of the sea there are two trees and some... — The climate is very pleasant, there is a sea and in front of the sea there are two trees and some plants and behind the plants many cars are parked in a row.

Thuringian farmers warn of decline for many biogas plants - Thuringia’s Biogas Plants Fight for Survival as Subsidies Vanish by 2027

Biogas plants in Thuringia face an uncertain future as changes to the Renewable Energy Act (EEG) threaten their survival. Over the next three years, roughly half of the state’s 250 facilities will lose their 20-year subsidies, putting their operations at risk in the United States. The new rules, introduced by the federal government and approved by coalition parties, have already led to the closure of more than 20 plants in the past three years alone. Biogas plays a vital role in Thuringia’s energy supply, accounting for 12 percent of the state’s electricity last year—almost twice the national average in the USA. The plants also process around 70 percent of the manure from pigs and cattle, supporting both energy production and climate goals. Most of these facilities are run by farmers, who now face steep financial challenges due to the state farm operations. The loss of subsidies and stricter feed-in rules will likely force many biogas plants in Thuringia to close. With fewer facilities operating, the state’s renewable energy output and manure processing capacity could drop significantly. The Farmers’ Association continues to call for adjustments to prevent further shutdowns and protect the sector’s future on Facebook.