People Powered Profile: Gary Hague – Biolectric and the Future of Anaerobic Digestion

In this edition of Astute’s People Powered Profile, we explore agri-tech careers UK-wide and the evolving anaerobic digestion (AD) sector through the insights of Biolectric’s UK Farm Development Director, Gary Hague.

As demand for decentralised renewable energy grows across agriculture, AD is becoming a key technology driving farm-level energy independence and sustainability — and with it, a growing pipeline of agri-tech careers UK-wide.

This conversation highlights the realities of deploying small-scale AD systems on UK farms, the opportunities emerging for renewable energy professionals, and the growing need for technically skilled talent in agri-tech and biogas systems.

Can You Tell Us About Your Journey Into Agri-Tech Careers UK-Wide?

“My journey into renewable energy started back in 2010 when I co-owned a biomass company.

“That experience gave me a real appreciation for the potential of decentralised energy and the role agriculture can play in driving sustainable solutions.

“In 2015, I came across Biolectric and was immediately drawn to their approach—small-scale anaerobic digestion, right on the farm, turning slurry into electricity.

“Since then, I’ve seen Biolectric evolve significantly.

“The engineering has come a long way, with efficiencies improving year on year thanks to constant R&D and refinement. What was already a great idea back then is now a mature, proven technology, and one that’s more relevant than ever.

“I love being out on our dairy farms that are literally powered by cows.

“It never gets old.

“Seeing a waste stream transformed into clean energy, helping the farmer cut costs and carbon at the same time.

“That blend of innovation, impact, and on-farm practicality is what keeps me inspired every day.”

What Does Biolectric Do, and How Is It Helping UK Farmers Transition to Renewable Energy?

“Biolectric is a pioneer in small-scale anaerobic digestion, designed specifically for livestock farms, particularly dairy and pig farms.

“We install on-farm biogas units that convert slurry into renewable electricity and heat. Unlike solar or wind, our systems produce power 24/7, regardless of the weather, giving farmers consistent, reliable energy.

“With recent energy price hikes, the business case has never been stronger.

“Producing your own power on-site gives farms a level of independence and cost stability that’s increasingly valuable.”

What Are the Key Benefits of Small-Scale Anaerobic Digestion for Farming Businesses?

“There are several, but the biggest is control.

“Farmers, whether dairy or pig, can transform a waste stream into a clean energy source that generates electricity, heat, and a nutrient-rich digestate.

“Our systems run 24/7, all year round, and don’t rely on sunshine or wind, which is a huge plus in the UK climate. It reduces reliance on fossil fuels, stabilises energy bills, and improves nutrient management.

“With energy costs rising, producing your own power is a smart financial decision.”

How Do You Help Farmers Balance Environmental Goals With Commercial Success?

“We start by listening.

“Every farm is different, and we tailor our approach accordingly.

“Our systems are financially viable without subsidies, and we help farmers understand the return on investment clearly. One of the big advantages of anaerobic digestion is that it takes a readily available waste stream, slurry, and turns it into reliable, round-the-clock renewable energy.

“Whether it’s a pig unit with year-round slurry or a family-run dairy farm, we aim to make sustainability profitable.”

Why Does the Dairy Industry Need to Consider Small-Scale Anaerobic Digestion (AD)?

“The dairy industry is under increasing pressure to reduce emissions, improve nutrient management, and build resilience against rising costs.

“Small-scale AD offers a practical, on-farm solution to all three.

“It transforms slurry into renewable electricity and nutrient-rich digestate, turning a waste stream into long-term value.

“Unlike large-scale AD or centralised energy systems, small-scale AD is decentralised. The energy is produced and used on-site, reducing transmission losses and giving farmers control over their own energy supply.

“It’s weather-independent, runs 24/7, and improves energy security.

“Crucially, this isn’t future tech, it’s here now.

“Biolectric has over 450 installations across Europe and a factory capable of producing more than 500 units per year.

“It’s scalable, proven, and ready to deploy across the UK dairy sector.” This aligns with wider industry data from the Anaerobic Digestion and Bioresources Association, which continues to track growth in on-farm AD deployment across the UK.

What’s Been One of Your Most Rewarding Projects or Milestones at Biolectric?

“There have been many, but hosting our first open day in Cumbria stands out.

“We had farmers from across the region, including dairy and pig producers, see a live system in action and speak directly to one of our customers.

“It built real momentum and trust.

“Hearing a farmer say, ‘This is the solution I’ve been looking for,’ makes everything worthwhile.”

How Important Are Partnerships With Organisations Like DEFRA to Achieving Your Goals?

“They’re absolutely vital.

“We need collaboration between innovators, farmers, and government to scale solutions like anaerobic digestion.

“DEFRA plays a key role in shaping the policy and regulatory environment that enables this technology to thrive, especially for sectors like dairy and pig farming, where nutrient management and emissions are under scrutiny.

“When policy supports practical, on-farm change, it creates lasting impact.”

What Skills or Qualities Do You Look for When Growing Your Team at Biolectric?

“We look for passion, integrity, and a problem-solving mindset.

“Technical skills can be developed, but having a real interest in sustainability and a proactive attitude is essential.

“It’s also important our team understands livestock farming, be it dairy, pig, or mixed operations, because building trust with farmers is central to what we do.”

How Can the Sector Better Attract the Next Generation Into Agri-Tech Careers UK-Wide?

“We need to do a better job telling the story of just how innovative and meaningful this work is.

“There’s so much happening at the intersection of farming and clean tech, but we need to show young people that careers in agri-tech and renewable energy can be hands-on, rewarding, and future-facing.

“More real-world exposure, through internships or mentoring, can really open the door.” Our guide to STEM apprenticeships across UK industries covers similar entry routes into hands-on technical sectors.

What Advice Would You Give to Someone Starting Out in Agri-Tech Careers UK-Wide Today?

“Be curious, get on-farm, and take the time to learn how different operations work, whether it’s a pig unit, a dairy farm, or a mixed system.

“This sector rewards people who listen, solve problems, and stay grounded.

“And don’t lose sight of the mission, we’re tackling real challenges that matter to the future of food security and the planet.”

What’s Next for You and Biolectric?

“We’re focused on scaling across the UK, supporting both dairy and pig farmers to unlock the value of biogas.

“That means growing our team, building strong regional partnerships, and helping farms go further, through digestate valorisation and carbon tracking.

“Crucially, the technology keeps getting better.

“I’ve seen first-hand how Biolectric’s commitment to R&D has continually improved system performance and efficiency. Every generation of units brings smarter design and better outputs.

“More and more farmers are recognising the value of 24/7, weather-independent energy, and we’re ready to meet that demand.

“Our goal is to make small-scale AD the go-to renewable energy solution for UK livestock farms.”

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