Residents voice concerns over Langaa Bioenergi expansion plans in Denmark

Mikkel Frandsen views large tanks from his window, a constant reminder of a biogas facility that has significantly impacted his family’s life. “Whenever we have an event, we worry about the overpowering smell of decay that may prevent us from enjoying the outdoors,” he stated. Over the past nine months, he has complained to the local council about the unbearable odors from the facility, averaging a complaint once a week. “This is our entire life. As individuals, we have to fight against both the municipality and a large corporation, which leaves us feeling powerless,” he added.

Now, the facility’s owners plan to triple its size, increasing the number of trucks passing Frandsen’s home from 15 to 55-60 daily. “There are schoolchildren and toddlers here; our small road is not designed for that kind of traffic,” he remarked.

The owners of Langaa Bioenergi intend to expand operations to increase annual biomass from 106,000 tons to 350,000 tons. The project requires partial renovations and the construction of new buildings, including seven additional tanks and various halls, alongside the establishment of five hectares of solar panels.

Langaa Bioenergi’s chairman, Thomas Hedegaard, emphasized the aim to create a larger, more modern facility to boost gas production while supporting green transition in agriculture.

The Danish biogas sector has seen a rise in production, with 188 biogas plants operating nationwide, many of which are planning expansions. Public consultation for the project is currently open until September 26, with a town hall meeting scheduled in Laurbjerg where community concerns will be discussed. Frandsen plans to attend this meeting, echoing the worries of many locals regarding the facility’s expansion. Despite his concerns, local politician Nils Borring reassured that no decisions have been finalized yet, promising a thorough citizen engagement process.