Bahía de Bizkaia Gas (BBG) has launched an ISCC-certified bioLNG refueling service in the Port of Bilbao, enabling zero-carbon biomethane supply for maritime bunkering and road transport.
Bilbao | Febraury 11, 2026 – Bahía de Bizkaia Gas (BBG) has officially entered the renewable fuel market, launching a new bioLNG (liquefied biomethane) loading service at its terminal in the Port of Bilbao. The move follows the plant’s successful ISCC (International Sustainability and Carbon Certification) audit in late 2025, marking a critical milestone for the decarbonization of the Atlantic shipping corridor.
This new service allows BBG, jointly owned by the Basque Energy Agency and Enagás, to supply certified renewable gas to both ocean-going vessels and road tanker fleets. By integrating bioLNG into its existing infrastructure, Bilbao is positioning itself as a primary green bunkering hub for the Bay of Biscay.
The Power of “Interconnected Infrastructure”
The launch is underpinned by European Regulation (EU) 996/2022, which introduces the concept of interconnected infrastructure. This regulatory framework allows for a “virtual” link between biomethane producers and end-consumers across the gas grid.
- The Process: Biomethane is injected into the gas network by producers elsewhere in Europe.
- The Logic: BBG acquires this gas alongside Sustainability Tests (PoS), which certify the origin and emission reductions.
- The Benefit: Because bioLNG is chemically identical to fossil LNG, it can be stored and supplied using BBG’s existing cryogenic tanks and loading arms without any mechanical modifications to the terminal or the receiving ships.
Traceability via ISCC Certification
To ensure “world-class” transparency, BBG’s operations are now governed by the ISCC EU standard. This certification acts as a “green passport” for every ton of fuel loaded, verifying:
- Sustainable Sourcing: The biomethane is derived from renewable organic waste, not food crops.
- Traceability: A strict “mass balance” chain of custody ensures that for every unit of bioLNG sold, an equivalent unit of biomethane was injected into the grid.
- GHG Savings: Provides the necessary documentation for shipping companies to meet their FuelEU Maritime and EU ETS compliance targets.
“BBG will thus unite biomethane producers with the companies using this regasification plant,” the company stated. “This reinforces our commitment to a safe, efficient, and sustainable energy transition.”
Port of Bilbao: A Growing Green Hub
The introduction of bioLNG is the latest in a series of decarbonization efforts at the Port of Bilbao. The port already hosts one of the most active LNG bunkering stations in Spain and is currently developing a €146 million e-fuels plant (expected in 2027) to produce synthetic marine fuels using green hydrogen and captured CO2.
| Feature | BioLNG Service Details |
| Location | Port of Bilbao, Spain |
| Capacity | Ships (Bunkering) and Trucks (Small-scale distribution) |
| Compliance | ISCC EU & Regulation (EU) 996/2022 |
| Start Date | January 2026 (Operational) |
| Key Partners | Enagás & Basque Energy Agency (EVE) |
Why BioLNG is Surging in 2026
With the FuelEU Maritime regulations now in full swing, shipowners are under pressure to reduce the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) intensity of the energy used on board. BioLNG is a “drop-in” fuel, meaning LNG-fueled vessels can use it immediately. By sourcing BioLNG at BBG, companies can significantly lower their carbon intensity scores and avoid heavy non-compliance penalties without investing in new engine technology.
About Bahía de Bizkaia Gas (BBG)
Bahía de Bizkaia Gas (BBG) is a cornerstone of the European energy grid, serving as the primary gateway for Natural Gas in the Atlantic Arc. Strategically located in the Port of Bilbao (Zierbena), the facility is a joint venture between the Basque Energy Agency (EVE) and the Spanish gas system operator Enagás, each holding a 50% stake.
Since its commissioning in 2003, BBG has played a vital role in energy security, supplying 100% of the Basque Country’s gas demand and approximately 16% of Spain’s total gas needs. The plant is a leader in efficiency, frequently achieving the highest utilization rates in the Spanish regasification system.
Technical Capabilities & Infrastructure
The terminal is equipped to handle the world’s largest LNG carriers (Q-Max) and features highly automated systems for versatile distribution:
- Storage Capacity: 450,000 m³ of LNG across three cryogenic tanks (150,000 m³ each).
- Regasification Output: 800,000 Nm³/h nominal capacity for injection into the national grid.
- Multi-Modal Loading: Facilities for ship-to-ship bunkering and a specialized bay for LNG tanker trucks.
- Innovation Hub: Now expanding into renewable fuels (bioLNG) and future-proofing for CO2, Hydrogen, and Ammonia management.
Mission: To guarantee a secure energy supply while spearheading the transition toward a sustainable, low-carbon maritime and industrial economy through cutting-edge regasification and storage technology.
Source: Bahía de Bizkaia Gas (BBG)