Agriculture
Background
Agriculture is an area in which competence is shared between the European Union (EU) and its Member States. The bioenergy and agricultural sectors are closely intertwined. The Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) supports farmers, regulates agricultural markets and finances rural development. The current CAP entered into force on 1 January 2023 and will remain applicable until 2027, with Member States implementing their CAP Strategic Plans.
In July 2025, the European Commission presented its proposal for the CAP 2028–2034, focusing on competitiveness, sustainability and rural development. The proposal is currently undergoing the EU legislative process.
The role of biomass
Agricultural biomass, including agricultural residues and dedicated energy crops, represents an important resource for EU bioenergy production, contributing to the generation of renewable heat, electricity and biofuels. However, its potential remains underutilised due to insufficient policy support, mobilisation challenges and limited awareness of available technologies and business opportunities.
Sustainably mobilising agricultural biomass can contribute to Europe’s long-term decarbonisation objectives while supporting rural development and the circular bioeconomy, as recognised in the EU’s 2025 Bioeconomy Strategy.
Our position
EU and national policies should recognise and support the contribution of agricultural biomass and energy crops to long-term EU decarbonisation objectives. Obstacles to mobilising agricultural residues, including lack of information and logistical challenges, should be addressed through targeted measures and knowledge-sharing programmes such as the Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation Systems (AKIS).
Furthermore, the environmental benefits that appropriately managed perennial energy crops can provide, including improved water quality, enhanced biodiversity and erosion prevention, should be acknowledged. The current CAP and its successor should encourage the sustainable mobilisation of agricultural biomass, alongside the use of bioenergy on farms and in rural areas.
