A burgeoning Belgian enterprise specializing in the installation of biogas systems on farms is rapidly expanding. Discover how BNP Paribas Fortis is facilitating its growth.
Biolectric’s sustainable impact
Established in 2011 in Temse, East Flanders, Biolectric stands as a model of the sustainable economy. The company produces and markets anaerobic digesters that convert farm manure into ‘green’ energy. These systems not only allow farms to become net energy producers but also cut methane emissions by up to 70%. On average, a Biolectric system offsets greenhouse gases equivalent to driving 2,000 kilometers in a modern car. Today, Biolectric serves a broad European market.
In 2019, to support further expansion, BNP Paribas Fortis granted Biolectric several credit facilities, predominantly through a ‘sustainable impact loan’.
Partnership and support from BNP Paribas Fortis
Tom De Winter, Biolectric’s liaison at BNP Paribas Fortis, shares insights into the bank’s involvement: “Our relationship with Biolectric intensified in 2017, allowing us deeper insights into their innovative technology through visits by specialists from our Sustainable Business Competence Centre. Understanding their operations was crucial, especially when Biolectric’s founder Philippe Jans and the industrial investor Ackermans & van Haaren (AvH) approached us with plans for expansion. They proposed building facilities with in-house anaerobic digesters to sell electricity directly to farmers in Belgium, the Netherlands, and France.”
Tom adds, “While several banks were considered, Biolectric chose us, largely due to our proactive stance on supporting sustainable solutions.”
Innovations in anaerobic digestion
Biolectric has pioneered the development of ‘pocket digesters,’ compact units designed to transform cattle manure into valuable electricity and heat. Presently, over 200 of these units are operational worldwide, offering both financial and environmental returns to farmers.
In 2019, Ackermans & van Haaren acquired a 60% share in Biolectric from Taste Invest, with founder Philippe Jans retaining a 40% stake. AvH’s involvement has introduced professional management expertise to Biolectric, significantly enhancing its prospects for growth.
