In a strategic move to bolster its portfolio in sustainable technology, Ackermans & van Haaren (AvH) has secured a 60% stake in Biolectric, a leader in the compact biogas installation market. Biolectric, established in 2011 and headquartered in Belgium, specializes in creating small-scale biogas systems (under 100 kW) primarily for livestock farms, pig farms, and water treatment facilities.
Biolectric’s innovative approach to anaerobic digestion converts methane from manure into electricity and heat, significantly cutting greenhouse gas emissions. To date, the company has successfully installed over 200 units across ten countries, including Belgium, France, the Netherlands, Poland, the UK, Italy, and Sweden, with each installation taking just 2-3 days.
Projected to achieve a turnover of €10 million in 2019, Biolectric has entered a growth phase, bolstered by a recent partnership with the Dutch dairy cooperative Friesland Campina. This collaboration aims to expand Biolectric’s footprint in the Netherlands. With AvH’s backing, Biolectric plans to increase its production from 50 units annually to 250.
This acquisition marks a pivotal shift following the exit of the Westerlund family’s investment fund, Taste Invest, which has been involved with Biolectric since its inception. Philippe Jans, founder and CEO of Biolectric, emphasized the transition as the start of an ambitious new chapter underpinned by AvH’s commitment to sustainable growth.
Jan Suykens, CEO of AvH, highlighted the acquisition’s alignment with their strategy of “Partners for Sustainable Growth.” He pointed out the significant impact of reducing methane emissions in combating global warming, noting that one Biolectric system can save the equivalent of the emissions from 70 cars annually.
Philip De Mulder of Taste Invest expressed satisfaction with the progress and impact achieved during their partnership with Biolectric, praising the groundwork laid for the company’s next phase of expansion under AvH’s stewardship.
Ackermans & van Haaren, a diversified Belgian group, operates across several core sectors including marine engineering, private banking, real estate, and energy. In 2017, AvH’s operations generated a turnover of €5.4 billion and employed 22,749 people. The group focuses on strategic investments with substantial growth potential and is listed on several stock indices including the BEL20 and Euronext Brussels.
