A UK trade body has won EU funding worth €76,000 (£60,000) for a biogas training programme.

The ‘Advanced Biogas Learning in Europe’ (ABLE) project, typically aimed at young people, offers “on-site” experience and training at biogas laboratories and factories in Germany.

UK companies can also get the opportunity to learn from leading experts in all areas of anaerobic digestion (AD) technology.

AD is a process used for industrial or domestic purposes to manage waste and to release energy.

Gaynor Hartnell, Chief Executive of Renewable Energy Association, which won the funding said: “Anaerobic digestion helps meet a range of environmental and waste management objectives. It also offers fantastic diversification opportunities for UK farmers, increasing the inclusiveness and resilience of our energy supply. Finally, it is one of the most versatile energy technologies, with the potential to provide renewable heat, power and transport fuels.”

Environment Minister Lord Taylor of Holbeach welcomed the news and said it will help the energy industry gain the skills needed in the sector.

The scheme starts in September this year and will run until May 2014.