Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, will transition to 100% renewable energy for Ireland operations sites in 15-year biomethane gas purchase agreement
Commitment to landmark biomethane partnership reflects pioneering leadership in sustainable energy transition
DUBLIN, IRELAND – 24 November 2025 – Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, today announced that it will transition to biomethane to provide 100% of its heating needs at its Dublin and Athlone, Ireland sites, making it the first pharmaceutical company in the country to fully embrace this sustainable energy source to fuel the research, development and manufacturing of medicines. This landmark initiative will be achieved through a fifteen-year partnership with Carbon AMS, a leading biomethane producer and will contribute to the Company’s flagship decarbonisation programme, Ambition Zero Carbon.
This agreement is the first large-scale biomethane contract with ‘additionality’ in Ireland, meaning the project will add renewable capacity to Ireland’s national gas grid. Biomethane will be sourced from a new state-of-the-art plant strategically located in Duleek, Co. Meath— approximately 30km from Alexion’s College Park site and 120km from its Athlone operations—and will use grass silage obtained through long-term contracts with local farmers. Construction of the Duleek facility is expected to be completed, and the first supply of biomethane generated to sites, in 2026.
The Duleek facility will supply at least 32GWh of biomethane per year to the Alexion Operations sites, equivalent to 6.3% of AstraZeneca’s global gas consumption and displacing approximately 5,800 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions per year. The transition and contractual agreement are key elements of AstraZeneca’s flagship Ambition Zero Carbon programme, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from the Company’s global operations and fleet (Scopes 1 and 2) by 98% in 2026, compared to a 2015 baseline, on the way to becoming science-based net zero by 2045.
The agreement will see Carbon AMS construct a purpose-built anaerobic digestion system, in which microorganisms break down organic material, such as grass, in a sealed, oxygen- free enclosure. The anaerobic digestion process produces biogas, which is then turned into biomethane, a renewable source of energy. The nutrient-rich by-product will be returned to farmland, enhancing soil health, promoting further grass growth and reducing the need for synthetic fertilisers, contributing to sustainable Irish agriculture and a circular economy.
Ireland’s abundant grasslands and temperate climate provide ample agricultural residues and grass silage for anaerobic digestion, ensuring a sustainable biomethane supply.
Minister for Transport and Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment, Darragh O’Brien TD, said: “The commitment by Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease to transition their Irish operations to 100% biomethane marks a significant contribution to the National Biomethane Strategy. The project’s ‘additionality’ facilitated by the partnership with Carbon AMS and involving the development of new renewable infrastructure in Duleek and long- term contracts with local farmers illustrates how private-sector initiatives can deliver tangible benefits for both environmental goals and the agricultural community. Such collaborations are vital for contributing to our national decarbonisation targets, strengthening our energy independence and fostering a more sustainable future for Ireland.”
Shane Doyle, Senior Vice President, Global Operations and Sustainability, Alexion, said: “Our partnership with Carbon AMS marks a pivotal moment in Alexion and AstraZeneca’s sustainability journey. By transitioning to 100% biomethane for our heating needs in Ireland, we are not only significantly reducing our operational emissions but also pioneering a new source of energy for the pharmaceutical industry in Ireland. This substantial, long-term commitment underscores our dedication to environmental stewardship and our role in fostering a more sustainable future for Ireland.”
Bryan Mulchinock, Global Head of Environmental Health and Safety, Alexion, said: “Moving to biomethane at this scale is a complex undertaking and we are incredibly proud to be the first pharmaceutical company in Ireland to achieve this. Our collaboration with Carbon AMS, leveraging their expertise and innovative approach, is crucial. This project not only helps us deliver on our decarbonisation goals but also supports Ireland’s emerging biomethane sector and strengthens our engagement with local renewable energy solutions.”
Richard Kennedy, CEO of Carbon AMS said: “We are thrilled to partner with Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease along with the Global Energy Transition Fund, managed by Sustainable Development Capital LLP, both of which share our vision for a sustainable future. This agreement is a game-changer for the Irish agri biomethane sector, demonstrating the significant potential for indigenous, renewable gas production which will not only provide Alexion with a reliable source of clean heat but also support local agriculture and contribute to Ireland’s energy independence.”
Alexion’s commitment to transition to clean heat in Ireland follows on from investment in clean heat to fuel R&D and manufacturing in AstraZeneca’s sites in the US, UK and China over the last four years.
