The UK Pellet Council: notice of temporary ENplus suspension closure as UK market and supply chain now restructured.

The Government’s decision last year to temporarily suspend the need for large UK users to only use ENplus A1 standard wood pellets was and has been well received by the UK’s biomass for heating industry.

The move, brought on by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, helped to free up supplies for smaller biomass boiler owners, enabled traders to navigate challenging market conditions, and ultimately allowed lower quality wood pellets to be used for heating.

However, fast forward twelve months and with markets normalising and alternative supply chains now established, the UK Pellet Council (UKPC) is working closely with OFGEM and The Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) to collectively communicate the closure of the temporary suspension.

This will come to an end on Wednesday 22 November 2023 meaning that all UK traders and customers will be asked to (and be required to) use any low grade, non-ENplus A1 pellet stock by this date.

Due to the support given by the Government and DESNZ (formerly the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy) at the time, both the UK’s wood pellet and biomass for heating sectors have witnessed minimal disruption to consumer supply, especially over the winter months when customer demand is usually greater.

This was despite a complete ban of all wood products (including pellets) coming from Russia since April 2022 which removed up to 3.5 million tonnes of pellets from the European supply chain.

Mark Lebus, Chair of the UK Pellet Council, explained, “Given the scale of this reduction and the speed in which sanctions were applied, having no interruption to supply for UK biomass boiler owners was a major achievement and something which couldn’t be done by fossil fuel suppliers who continue to import Russian gas, oil and coal.

“The Department of Energy Security and Net Zero was very proactive in managing the short-term issues arising from the situation in Ukraine, and we thank the Biomass Team as well as OFGEM for their approach and continued dialogue.

“The 12 month suspension has absolutely served its purpose, minimising possible disruption and providing time for new supply chains to be established. This also ensured the security of supply to UK biomass customers over the winter period which despite being unusually warm, also saw less wood pellets being used than first anticipated. This, as a result, helped to free up additional product capacity within Europe.

“The industry is in a strong position which is very encouraging given the role it has to play within net zero and future energy security policy.”

The UK Pellet Council, the trade body representing the UK wood pellet industry, also played an integral part helping to facilitate introductions with alternative suppliers as traders restructured their global supply chains within weeks. This was to accommodate more than 300,000 tonnes of wood pellets per annum being imported into the UK.

Domestic producers also played a key role in the restructuring process by expanding individual capacity to meet increased demand. This pattern was also mirrored across Europe as production ramped up and investment in new plants was delivered, for example, in Germany where the Government supported the installation of 80,000 new biomass boilers in less than a year as consumers moved away from a dependence on natural gas and heating oil.

Therefore, with the closure of the suspension on the horizon and the reinstating of strict ENplus requirements only six months away, the UKPC is asking The Department of Energy Security and Net Zero to start clear and regular communications with traders, producers and end users about the forthcoming change.

Mark added, “The ENplus A1 accreditation is an internationally-recognised industry standard used to ensure optimal efficiencies are achieved in both domestic household and commercial biomass systems. There is a need for this requirement to return as soon as it is feasible to in order to maintain the high standards which the industry operates to, and also deter any lower grade wood pellets being sold as higher quality ENplus A1 products. Such a scenario could cause damage to smaller biomass boilers and void manufacturers’ warranties.

“The UKPC will therefore fully support OFGEM and DESNZ in clearly communicating the end of the suspension and the reinstating the ENplus A1 certification criteria. Furthermore, we are hopeful that the soon to be published Biomass Strategy paper will also provide new incentives to increase UK wood pellet production as suggested within Chris Skidmore MP’s Net Zero Review.”

All registered ENplus traders can produce a unique license guaranteeing that the pellets being sold are from a controlled chain of custody and delivered accordingly. The BSL trademark is a prerequisite for customers receiving Renewable Heat Incentive payments and demonstrates products are sustainably sourced. Therefore to assure high quality wood pellets, ENplus must be requested.

UK Government announces its ‘Powering Up Britain’ plans as part of Green Day

Plans to scale up affordable, clean, UK-generated power, strengthen, grow and support new and existing green industries, and boost the country’s energy security and independence, has been announced by the Government (Thursday 30 March 2023) as part of ‘Green Day’.

The ‘Powering Up Britain’ report includes multiple sector-driven announcements which are being seen as a blueprint for the future of UK energy. It is aiming to bring together energy security plans as well as net zero ambitions, setting out how the Government aims to diversify, decarbonise and domesticate energy production by investing in renewables and nuclear, in effect powering Britain from Britain.

Amongst many proposals, it sets out opportunities to open up growth in new technologies to reach net zero targets as well as consolidating Britain’s position as a global leader in green energy.

For renewables and home energy efficiency initiatives, the report focuses significantly and primarily on driving forward investment in heat pump technology as a blanket approach. A three year extension to the Boiler Upgrade Scheme is also outlined meaning that the £5,000 grant currently available for new biomass boilers too will carry on until 2028. No additional funding has been allocated to the scheme, instead providing homeowners with more time to transition to low carbon heating.

The Great British Insulation Scheme, a rebranded ECO+, is also mentioned and will help to cut household bills by expanding the Government’s energy efficiency support to more homes by upgrading 300,000 of the country’s least energy efficient properties.

More information regarding all announcements made, can be found here: Powering up Britain - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk) and here: Powering Up Britain: Energy Security Plan (publishing.service.gov.uk).

The energy security plan states that government will publish the Biomass Strategy by the end of June 2023, outlining further details on how sustainable biomass can best contribute towards net zero across the economy (hopefully including the delivery of a dedicated biomass/heat decarbonisation policy for rural off-grid homes to enable the transition away from fossil fuel use).

The Strategy will review the amount of sustainable biomass available to the UK and how this resource could be best utilised to help achieve energy security and net zero goals, consistent with wider environmental commitments.

Alongside the launch of the Powering Up Britain report, the Government has also updated its green finance strategy - ‘Mobilising Green Investment’ which aims to harness the UK’s world-leading financial services sector to support climate and environmental objectives. More information can be found here: Green finance strategy - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).

UK Government launches its long-awaited net zero review; ‘Mission Zero’…

The UK Government's comprehensive net zero review report has been published (13 January 2023), chaired and authored by the Rt Hon Chris Skidmore MP.

Along with other low carbon technologies and fuels, it states that sustainable biomass is a 'key component of the future energy system' of the UK, playing 'an important role in the net zero transition as a flexible resource to replace fossil fuels'.

Encouragingly, the independent report also recommends that 'more should be done to encourage sustainable UK biomass production' and goes on to state that the Biomass Strategy, which has been delayed several times over recent months, should be published as soon as possible.

Overall, ‘Mission Zero’ has been well received by industry representatives across multiple sectors, but its findings are also highly critical of the Government’s severe lack of progress in implementing strategies to tackle the climate crisis as well as work towards net zero ambitions across all areas.

Read the full report here - Review of Net Zero - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

The UK’s biomass for heating industry; what we do (and don’t do!)…

WHAT WE DO: the UK biomass for heating sector is a successful yet very niche, domestically-driven market that supplies sustainable, ENplus A1 wood pellets to fuel heating in homes and businesses. This enables properties to convert from fossil fuel use to low carbon heating.

The vast majority of domestic and non-domestic customers are located in rural and off-grid communities meaning that they are amongst the most challenging and hardest to heat building types to decarbonise. Most other renewable energy options are unsuitable and unworkable due to location. Therefore, biomass wood pellets enable these properties to convert and play an active part in reducing carbon emissions as part of net zero efforts.

WHAT WE DON’T DO: there is often a belief that the biomass for heating sector is the same as or in some way aligned to the larger, more industrial biomass for power markets which serve the utility and power industries; ie the power stations generating electricity. This is simply not the case and factually incorrect. Despite using biomass wood pellets, the two sectors are very separate and operate in different ways on very different levels.

RESPONSIBLE SOURCING OF SUSTAINABLE WOOD PELLETS: biomass for heating (and its wood pellet supply chain) works very closely, hand-in-hand with land and forestry management, both in the UK and overseas, to help grow, manage, maintain and create new areas of sustainable woodland which in turn generates positive, localised benefits as part of a successful, circular rural economy.

During the production of lumber for use in construction, housing and furniture manufacture, for example, up to 40% of the log being processed is residual by-product (see diagram) and it is this wood that is used to make ENplus A1 pellets.

The biomass for heating industry is an important keystone in this circular rural economy, displacing oil, LPG and coal used to heat buildings in rural areas. This significantly reduces carbon emissions and the reliance on fossil fuels (eg wood pellets produce on 0.3% of the CO2 created by heating oil).

ENplus A1 wood pellets are the highest grade available and are used in highly efficient, technologically-advanced boilers that use relatively small quantities (compared to the millions of tonnes of lower grade fuels used to generate electricity at large power stations).

This is why wood pellet boilers have been installed for over 25 years across Europe (and increasing in number as Governments seek to meet net zero targets.

SUPPLY AND DEMAND: the entire wood pellet for heating market in the UK is between 650,000-700,000 tonnes per annum, with up to 50% of this being manufactured in the UK. In comparison, the largest biomass-fuelled power station itself imports 7,000,000 tonnes per annum!

ENplus A1 pellets are the default specification of almost all boilers installed in the UK. The imported supply to meet UK demand comes from an extremely well managed and controlled supply chain with UK distributors who work very closely with producers in Europe, primarily from the Baltics and Iberian Peninsula.

Supplies serve domestic and commercial customers including farms and agricultural producers, schools and public buildings, hospitals and care homes, and hotels and leisure resorts. The UK has the potential to sustainably increase domestic wood pellet production to meet the demands of 500,000 rural households given clear, long-term Government policies are in line with net zero commitments.

This increased production could be supplied from feedstock already available in the UK thus providing local jobs and energy security for the future.

UK Government consults on temporary changes to ENplus wood pellet standards

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) is asking for industry views on the temporary suspension of fuel quality requirements for wood pellets.

BEIS is proposing a 12-month suspension, permitting additional supplies of wood pellets to be utilised this winter and mitigating against potential price rises due to supply concerns. It would mean that UK homes heated by biomass do not experience significant price rises or a lack of fuel supply combined during this period.

Global supply of biomass wood pellets to most countries has been affected after suspensions were introduced for pellets sourced or imported from Russia. The Government is therefore consulting on proposed measures to suspend fuel quality for domestic and non-domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) participants who use wood pellets.

It is estimated that up to 40% of ENplus wood pellets used in the UK were imported from Russia, and so this has created greater global competition, price rises and the restructuring of supply chains to accommodate more limited resources.

The UK Pellet Council has been working closely with BEIS officials over recent months to assess the situation, minimise disruption and provide alternative solutions including the opportunity to invest in a domestic wood pellet production market that would work hand in hand with DEFRA’s woodland creation policy and sustainable forestry management.

For more details on the consultation please go to: Renewable Heat Incentive: Temporary changes to wood pellets quality requirement - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Climate Change Committee: Government’s current net zero plans will not deliver targets…

Today's progress report publication by the Climate Change Committee (CCC) - 29 June 2022 - has outlined a severe lack of progress being made by the UK Government on net zero targets and programmes, with ‘holes that must be plugged in the strategy urgently' (CCC Chairman, Lord Deben).

Among the many points raised across the whole energy sector, the report has also highlighted a need for increased domestic biomass production (to be included in the forthcoming Biomass Strategy due out Q3 2022), and the introduction of mechanisms to support growth in domestic biomass supply. This is something which the UK Pellet Council has been calling for to also support rural economic growth, create rural jobs, enhance sustainable forestry management, and deliver better energy security.

Whilst it acknowledges the Government’s commitment to net zero, it also proves that there is a huge market opportunity here and now for the biomass (for heat) industry as part of climate change agenda.

Fit-for-purpose heat decarbonisation policies must be introduced sooner rather than later, especially for rural off-grid properties which are amongst the most challenging, to help them switch from fossil fuel use.

Read more about the CCC report here (download available)>> https://www.theccc.org.uk/2022/06/29/current-programmes-will-not-deliver-net-zero/

Upscaling the UK’s domestic wood pellet production sector…

The UK Pellet Council and Biomass Heat Works! recently hosted a delegation from the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to fully demonstrate the UK's domestic wood pellet production potential and the huge opportunity the country now has to upscale this market in order to strengthen energy security policies. This supports activities to drive forward heat decarbonisation/net zero policies for rural off-grid properties in order to deliver an effective, all-encompassing strategy.

Huge thanks to the teams at both Faccombe Estates in Hampshire and SDL Biomass Pellets in Gloucestershire who accommodated informative site visits and provided extensive tours of their respective wood pellet production facilities.

This enabled Government representatives to ask fact-finding questions and see first hand why biomass is a much needed low-carbon energy and heating solution when working hand-in-hand with sustainable forestry management. It also showed how the UK could become less reliant on wood pellet imports if more ‘home-grown’ facilities were fully supported and upscaled with investment, creating local jobs in rural areas. This also comes at a time when the energy crisis has proved that the UK needs to find alternative, renewable and self-sufficient resources.

Faccombe Estates’ biomass wood pellet processing plant can currently produce up to 2,500 tonnes per annum and this is used for heating requirements with zero waste. 360 tonnes are used on the Estate each year (in the manor house, the inn, lodge and rented properties), displacing approximately 65,000 litres of heating oil.

At SDL Biomass Pellets, the construction and installation of a new, fully commissioned pellet line in 2021 has enabled the company to become the only large scale producer running off-grid in England. The company uses a combined heat and power unit to produce the pellets and utilises a large biomass boiler, fuelled using forestry waste sourced from a local sawmill to further reduce carbon footprint.

Mark Lebus, Chair of the UK Pellet Council who co-hosted the BEIS delegation, commented, “This was a very worthwhile exercise and one that enabled Government representatives to see for themselves the potential that exists here and now to reduce our reliance on overseas supply whilst boosting rural economic growth. The circular wood pellet economy, from sustainable forestry through to actual production and supply, is one that could really make a difference if the right support was provided, and this is therefore something that we are pushing with BEIS in relation to the forthcoming Biomass Strategy.”

More details regarding Faccombe Estate can be found at www.faccombeestate.com and SDL Biomass Pellets at www.sdlsolutions.co.uk

Owning the Future: new report for decarbonising Scottish homes published.

Recommendations for The Scottish Government to deliver on its heat decarbonisation commitments are outlined in a new report published by The Existing Homes Alliance Scotland (09/05/22), a coalition of housing, environmental, fuel poverty, consumer and industry organisations calling for urgent action to transform Scotland’s existing housing stock.

Amongst a host of evidence, the use of sustainable biomass is included and recommended for rural off-grid homes which are often more challenging, more remote, the hardest-to-heat and high users of fossil fuel when compared to other owner-occupied properties.

The report aims to support the development of a regulatory and enabling framework for decarbonising Scotland’s owner occupied homes, calling for new standards to be introduced alongside advice, financial incentives and grants for fuel poor households.

Details of the report can be found here: Owning the Future: A framework of regulations for decarbonising owner-occupied homes in Scotland | The Existing Homes Alliance | Scotland (existinghomesalliancescotland.co.uk)

All-Party Parliamentary report published to ‘level up’ rural areas…

A new report researched and funded by the Country, Land and Business Association (CLA) has been published expressing the views of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Rural Business and the Rural Powerhouse after an inquiry into the UK’s rural economy, its current status and how best to ‘level up’.

The ‘Levelling Up the Rural Economy; an inquiry into rural productivity’ report took evidence from charities, industry bodies, companies, academics, campaign groups and business leaders, and concluded that no government in recent memory has had a program to unlock the economic and social potential of the countryside. This has meant that the rural economy is approximately 18% less productive than the national average, a % which if reduced, could add an extra £43bn to the UK economy.

Recommendations covered planning reform, connectivity and farming, skills, housing and more. APPG Co-Chair and MP for York Outer, Julian Sturdy, said, “This report sets out a comprehensive growth plan, one that will create jobs, spread opportunity and strengthen small towns and villages across the country. We recognise the unique set of challenges that the Government is facing at the moment, but this makes the need to grow and strengthen the rural economy more, not less important.”

Julian's Co-Chair, Lord Cameron of Dillington added, “It is vital that government understands that rural Britain is not a museum, but instead is an important part of the national economy that deserves the chance to succeed. The report provides an economic blueprint that will help any Government seize the capabilities of the countryside and create the long-term economic growth necessary to boost/enrich/enhance our rural communities – in a cost-effective and timely manner.”

The UK Pellet Council and Biomass Heat Works! representatives are working closely with Government to urge ministers to deliver a dedicated, fit-for-purpose heat decarbonisation policy specifically for rural and off-grid communities. This will allow approximately 1.45m rural homes (possibly up to 1.9m) - 422,000 of which are only suitable for bioenergy/biomass - as well as 200,000 commercial buildings to switch from fossil fuel (oil/coal/LPG) systems when considering building type, age, location and network accessibility.

It will also enable rural homeowners to not be left behind their urban counterparts, and encourage the growth of a domestic, ‘home-grown’ wood pellets production market that works hand-in-hand with sustainable forestry management as part of a successful, rural circular economy.

Read more details from the CLA as well as the report here> Levelling up the rural economy - APPG report 2022 ONLINE pdf (cla.org.uk)

Russia/Ukraine war - full statement by the UK Pellet Council (as quoted in The Telegraph)…

“Mark Lebus, Chair of the UK Pellet Council (UKPC) said, “The UK Pellet Council, its members and the UK biomass (for heat) industry has, like many other sectors, actioned immediate and alternative measures to restructure its global supply chain, working with overseas partners to help ensure a continuous supply of biomass wood pellets for UK customers.

“Wood pellets will no longer be sourced from Russia or imported from Russian producers. Given the previous levels of Russian exports, this will of course have an impact on supply worldwide, not just to the UK but for other countries too who are all now competing for the same premium product from similar suppliers.

“With UK and international sanctions in place, we estimate that total European production may be reduced by some 12-15%, so there may be some short-term price rises due to the ongoing situation and heightened competitiveness between countries. UK customers may have experienced the price per tonne rising by approximately  25-40% (cost average £360-£385)[1], although most accept that this is still much lower than consumers using oil or gas-fuelled systems[2]. Current wood pellet costs are also in line with prices across Europe.

“However, it is important to say that we envisage any impact to be felt more so in the short-term while new supply chains and arrangements are put in place. This will mostly be over the next six weeks, and with heating demand from customers naturally falling as we head into the Spring and warmer months, new imports coming into the UK, for instance from the Iberian peninsula, should ensure most end users see minimal disruption.

“Whilst the UK biomass heat industry is a small, successful and very niche market, primarily servicing rural and off-grid, domestic and commercial users, we are indeed operating in a global wood pellets industry. The market going into winter gone was tight due to an increased roll-out of biomass boiler installations across Europe[3] and new renewable energy programmes being delivered across EU member states, and this was amplified further by a big rise in shipping and container costs. These external factors also pushed other industries, such as the power stations and larger utility companies - totally separate to the biomass heat sector, to purchase and opt for bigger bulk shipments, buying a much greater quantity of and higher quality of premium wood pellets in addition to their usual lower, industrial grade stock requirement.

“The recent storms also disrupted global shipping schedules too but given we’re a much smaller sector, we were able to prioritise both domestic and commercial customers, and replenish stock across UK-wide suppliers.[4] All of those elements together therefore had a knock-on effect for everyone, especially end users.

“However, what we must seriously look at and the UK Government must seriously consider going forward is that we have a very real opportunity here and now to better support, strengthen and heavily invest in a ‘home-grown’ wood pellets production market which would not only see the UK becoming mostly self-sufficient for biomass wood fuel, and therefore less reliant on imports and energy price hikes, but also attract greater inward investment for new manufacturing plants, creating thousands of green jobs for rural areas.

“By growing and fortifying our own domestic production in line with sustainable forestry management and DEFRA’s own tree planting and new woodland creation ambitions, the UK Government could take huge strides forward in achieving net zero targets. Furthermore, if timber is to be further encouraged in future housing and construction, this whole process needs to be well managed as part of a circular economy, and with biomass being the waste product after the timber process, the biomass heat and wood pellets industry is the keystone that pulls all of this together.

“Long-term policy direction, signalled by government, could strongly encourage and deliver the kind of investment needed to develop strategic autonomy from world markets by quite literally, growing our own wood fuel supply. At present, the UK cannot provide the required volumes needed, and therefore we import on a considerable scale and become drawn into a growing energy crisis.

“Biomass for heating creates more jobs than any other renewable technology, especially for rural communities with hard-to-heat or off-grid homes[5], and with the boiler replacement scheme offering £5,000 grant for new biomass installations from 01 April, the opportunity is right there in front of us so these conversations must be had.”

ENDS 12 March 2022

[1] Current heating oil costs are the equivalent of over £600/t of wood pellets

[2] Domestic Heating Oil Price Chart for England | BoilerJuice

[3] Germany has delivered more than 70,000 new biomass boiler installations in one year equating to 400k tonnes of wood pellets

[4] 100,000 users of biomass wood pellets across the UK versus 16m users of gas meaning the UK biomass heat industry is a much smaller, niche sector

[5] Over 57,000 rural homes still use coal as the primary heating source”     

Government Releases Biomass Policy Statement at COP26…

“This is a hugely significant announcement by the UK Government and one that clearly defines the key role biomass will play in future net zero and heat decarbonisation policy.”     

That’s the view of representatives of the UK Pellet Council who have very much welcomed the publication of the Biomass Policy Statement, announced by the UK Government as part of ‘Energy Day’ at COP26.

The Statement, released at the UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow, includes a strong commitment to biomass across the economy including heat generation, especially for rural and off-grid areas. It states that the Government ‘recognises that not every home off the gas grid will be suitable for low temperature heat pumps’ and how in most of these cases, ‘solid biomass will be a suitable alternative’. This will provide a fit-for-purpose solution for a significant number of homes using fossil fuels such as oil, coal and LPG.

It also outlines how ‘biomass has a role to play in all areas and is a vital resource for the key green technologies’, how it should be used in ‘hard to decarbonise sectors with limited or no low carbon alternatives’, how ‘71% of renewable heat in 2020 was produced from biomass,’ and how ‘individual sectors are expected to contribute to climate mitigation and adaptation, all touching on either the production or use of biomass.’

Furthermore, it highlights that the Biomass Strategy, due for release in 2022, will also consider how biomass can best support decarbonisation across the wider economy, to help create jobs, improve air quality and the environment, supporting the green industrial revolution which the Prime Minister set out in his Ten Point Plan.   

Mark Lebus Chair of the UK Pellet Council, “This is huge progress and a massive step forward towards achieving UK carbon reduction targets. The policy statement encompasses all aspects of biomass as an integral and much needed low carbon technology, not just within future heat decarbonisation policy, but also how the biomass heat sector works hand in hand with sustainable forestry management, creating green jobs and a successful, circular rural economy.

“In particular, The UK Pellet Council and Biomass Heat Works! have worked tirelessly to address, highlight and reiterate the need for biomass for heating, especially in rural off-grid areas. To see this commitment and intention laid out by the Government will secure the role of biomass as an integral part of the renewable energy mix in the long-term. 

“We will of course continue to work very closely and collaboratively with ministers and representatives from the Department for Business, Energy and Industry Strategy to help support and deliver their ambitions and net zero targets moving forward.”

The Biomass Policy Statement sets out a high-level summary of the UK Government’s position on the role of biomass for net zero and sets out specific information about policies in England. Go to Biomass policy statement (publishing.service.gov.uk)

UKPC/BHW! hosts Government officials to demonstrate rural off-grid issues…

The UK Pellet Council and Biomass Heat Works! have hosted representatives from The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to demonstrate why biomass must play an integral role in current heat decarbonisation policy to enable 1.45m rural off-grid properties, possibly more, to switch away from fossil fuel use.

As part of ongoing working relations with the UK Government, the BEIS delegation visited both domestic and commercial sites across South East England including Forestry Commission estate offices, a local school, farm dwellings as well as a residential care home, to see first hand how biomass for heat is the only low carbon alternative to oil, coal or LPG for many living and operating businesses in rural off-grid locations.

The tour provided the opportunity for in-depth Q&As with Mark Lebus (UK Pellet Council) and Julian Morgan-Jones (REA Wood Heat Forum) as well as directly with customers and end users who highlighted the problems with other technologies in such a setting, and why biomass (wood pellets/wood chip) is their only or preferred solution.

This provided a very clear understanding of the real issues at hand, and how priority must now be given to the country’s rural off-grid communities which, due to various property constraints, are some of the highest users of fossil fuel for heating.

Mark Lebus commented, “By continuing to work closely with the Government, we can make productive and positive steps forward to help achieve net zero, addressing a serious problem that currently exists for a significant number of UK rural off-grid properties.

“The site visits put this into clear context, and also demonstrated how our industry works successfully, hand-in-hand alongside sustainable forestry management, boosting the local rural economy. The day was extremely beneficial for all involved and we will continue to work closely and collaboratively with the BEIS team moving forward.”

At least 70% of rural homes use fossil fuels such as oil, LPG or coal as their primary heating source. This also includes 422,000 properties out of the 1.45m that will not be suited to ground or air source heat pumps (ASHPs) under current Government policy because of their age, size, type of building or location.

These more challenging, ‘hard-to-heat’ homes are only suited to bioenergy/biomass (or more expensive electric resistive heating), but from March 2022, the Government has only allowed for a maximum of 350 properties across England and Wales to receive funding to convert to biomass.

Almost 99% of proposed future funding (under the Clean Heat policy) is being directed towards ASHP installations which generally favour new, well insulated buildings in urban areas rather than rural off-grid communities. Therefore, this latest announcement leaves a significant number of homeowners and rural constituents still with no clear route to switch to low carbon solutions, and at a disadvantage to their urban counterparts.

Mark Lebus, Chair of the UK Pellet Council which also delivers the Biomass Heat Works! campaign, commented, “Whilst the Strategy is ambitious in its overall aims, for rural off-grid homeowners it is somewhat disappointing as there is still no Government backing or fit-for-purpose policy included in these announcements, despite the stark data and independent evidence that exists. They must be prioritised.

“57% of rural homes are still using fossil fuel which creates between 20-40% more CO2 emissions than natural gas in urban areas, and whilst approximately 95,000 of UK properties still use coal as their primary heating source, around 54,000 are in rural areas. 

“The number of properties outside of policy is a minimum of 422,000 homes and up to 1.45m, probably more, and so a blanket one-size-fits-all approach simply will not work. Considering the additional costs to retrofit ASHPs in some older properties could add between £25,000-£30,000 onto the total cost, it is likely that this number will be much higher.

“The UKPC has, for a long time, been calling for a dedicated rural off-grid heat decarbonisation policy that supports biomass, and prioritises these homes and constituents given current strategy is too urban-focused. This is about choice, with every homeowner able to choose the best renewable, low carbon technology for their specific property. Other favoured electrification solutions, like heat pumps, will of course work best in an urban environment and we acknowledge that, but for rural areas they’re problematic, unworkable or extremely costly for the homeowner before even being considered.

“We’re therefore, once again, urging Government to take action and adopt a technology-agnostic approach to support a mix of low carbon technologies, including biomass, in policy based on property suitability. This will give rural off-grid homeowners a fair and equal route to decarbonisation rather than being overlooked, sidelined or placed at a huge disadvantage. Being so close to COP26, why wouldn’t we prioritise these hard to heat properties, but again, announcements for rural communities are somewhat disappointing.”

Data shows biomass boilers as having similar comparative costs to install and use as other renewable technologies such as ASHPs if specific policies providing consumer choice were put in place. On average, 1.5 million heating systems are replaced in the UK every year and with most are expected to have a lifespan of 10-15 years, workable policies are needed immediately to begin the transition away from fossil fuels for rural homes.

Furthermore, oil burners are used in over one million rural properties, creating between 30-40% more carbon emissions than an equivalent natural gas-fuelled home. This widespread use of fossil fuels is also due to building constraints including age, type and location, the lack of network infrastructure, and the very expensive energy efficiency modifications and upgrades required by owners before other solutions can be considered.

75% of UK homes were built before 1975, however most in rural off-grid areas were built decades before, with an estimated 480,000 prior to 1900. This equates to 25% of rural homes compared to 10% of urban properties.

Mark added, “Initial discussions with Ministers, MPs and BEIS officials about this issue have been positive, with a general recognition that future policies will need to recognise geographical and regional differences if the country is to transition quickly from fossil fuel-derived heating and meet our net zero carbon commitments. Our own independently-researched data and analysis allows, for the first time, the scale of the issue to be quantified.

“With COP26 around the corner, this is the perfect opportunity to help up to 1.45m properties decarbonise their heating systems. That is nearly 7% of the total housing stock. If these highly polluting systems are replaced now, the carbon savings per property could be amongst the highest. Biomass is cost-effective, not only to the consumer but to the Government too, and price comparable to other technologies. We’re talking about a very niche problem with a niche solution that is readily available now. These buildings are simply not suited to a one-size-fits-all policy approach.

“The risk is significant as instead, what we could see is thousands of fossil fuel boilers being replaced like for like in rural communities. Furthermore, Treasury budgets risk being wasted unnecessarily if placing all of the eggs in one basket. It’s counterproductive and akin to forcing a round peg into a square hole. Net zero efforts could quite literally take one step forward, two steps back.

“This is not a case of pitting technologies competitively against one another. We’re asking for a mix of low carbon technologies, including biomass, to be supported equally and fairly in policy based on property suitability. This will then give rural off-grid homeowners a more successful, efficient and workable route to decarbonisation.”

“This is not a case of pitting technologies against one another as other favoured electrification solutions will of course work best in more urban environments. We acknowledge that, but for rural areas they’re problematic. We’re asking for a mix of low carbon technologies, including biomass. to be supported equally in a policy based on property suitability, givingrural off-grid homeowners a route to decarbonisation rather than being overlooked, sidelined or placed at a disadvantage.”

[1] The Role of Biomass in Decarbonising UK Rural Buildings Report (UK Pellet Council/Element Energy)

UK Government’s Heat and Buildings Strategy delayed once more…

The UK’s anticipated Heat and Buildings Strategy, originally due out in 2020 but rumoured to be released at the end of July 2021, has been pushed back to the Autumn.

As the biomass heat sector faces mounting challenges, pressures and increasing uncertainty, this latest delay is set to widen the gap further and potentially stall many new renewable energy projects coming forth, risking thousands of jobs and reversing the significant progress made over the last decade under the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI).

There is now an urgent need for Government to act on their commitments and deliver a fit-for-purpose heat decarbonisation policy before COP26, in particular for rural off-grid areas where the majority of properties are still using fossil fuel for heating requirements (oil/LPG). As some of the largest polluters, these hard-to-heat homes need to be prioritised by Ministers, not overlooked as part of an urban-focused policy that currently favours unworkable options, requires thousands of pounds to be spent beforehand by homeowners on energy upgrades and improvements, and has a ‘one size fits all’ technology approach.

Therefore, calls are again being made by the UK Pellet Council and Biomass Heat Works! for a bespoke, tailored rural policy that would see biomass being equally supported (and funded) by Government alongside other low carbon technologies (rather than being tightly restricted or recommended for use in ‘exceptional circumstances only’). Biomass for heat is proven as the most fit-for-purpose solution for UK rural off-grid homes and is available now, not needing time for the market to adapt or being years away from development and roll-out.

Successful heat decarbonisation is dependent on ensuring the installation of the right renewable heat technology in the right property. If not, hundreds of thousands of UK rural off-grid homeowners are at risk of being left out in the cold.

UK’s path to net zero'and how the UK should continue to 'take a global lead on developing international biomass governance and sustainability criteria' as a priority recommendation.

Biomass Heat Works! has been calling on the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and the Minister of State (Energy, Clean Growth and Climate Change), Anne-Marie Trevelyan MP, to deliver a dedicated, rural heat decarbonisation policy that fully supports biomass (the most suitable/proven low carbon solution available now for rural off-grid properties).

These hard-to-heat homes need to be prioritised now, and not quietly ignored as most use fossil fuel (oil/LPG etc) and are producing approx. 30% more CO2 than similar homes in urban areas.

Current Government urban/heat pump-focused heat decarbonisation policy is unworkable for them due to a combination of property age, type, location, grid access, network infrastructure as well as the costly (but necessary) energy efficiency modifications being asked of home owners beforehand in order to switch.

A targeted, fit-for-purpose policy for the many thousands of rural off-grid properties up and down the country is crucial. The 2021 Progress Report to Parliament released by The CCC can be found at: 2021 Progress Report to Parliament - Climate Change Committee (theccc.org.uk)

The England Tree Action Plan falls short by omitting bioenergy, a key part of the sustainable forestry cycle 

Mark Lebus, Chair of the UK Pellet Council and Biomass Heat Works!, explains, “Biomass, the leftover or residue part of a tree after felling and timber production, is a natural bi-product and a key element within any woodland cycle. Its removal actually encourages tree growth and profitable woodlands, the opposite of what is widely believed due to headline-grabbing images of deforestation. This alone has created a very false narrative.

“The UK’s tree planting ambition is very achievable as part of our net zero targets, but if we are to create more woodlands, we must also accommodate an increase in the natural bi-products too or it simply will not work. Good, sustainable forestry management works hand-in-hand with the biomass sector, so for Government to omit it from a biodiversity strategy, is concerning.

“We have a significant opportunity here and the additional biomass that will be produced could also enable the UK to transition more quickly to renewable energy. This is especially true for hard-to-heat homes, a significant number being located in rural and off-grid areas. 

“The vast majority of these properties currently use fossil fuel boilers, and given that a very high proportion are also unfit for the low carbon technologies that the Government is now favouring, biomass is their only option. Wouldn’t it make sense therefore, given the biomass heat supply chain and circular rural economy already exists, to incorporate it fully into the England Tree Action Plan and create an all-encompassing policy?”

In order for more land owners to create more woodlands, the Government is also being asked to ensure that the correct tree is planted in the correct area, with many leading foresters now calling for a more strategic approach to be taken. This would achieve longer-lasting and more workable results that would generate additional benefits across rural, off-grid and remote communities such as creating green jobs and further investment (especially in new wood pellet production facilities). This would fully support (and work hand-in-hand with) any dedicated heat decarbonisation policy to assist hard-to-heat homes with the switch away from fossil fuel to renewable energy.

Mark added, “BEIS must seriously consider implementing a fit-for-purpose, rural policy which subsidises biomass as an incentive to help off-grid properties stop using fossil fuels. By combining this with the Tree Action Plan, landowners will also have an economic reason to switch their current use to sustainable woodland, ensuring the output per hectare is maximised. The feedstock for wood pellet manufacture then creates another market for the forest residue, justifying any outgoing costs, supporting the forestry growth cycle and encouraging the planting of more trees which is current DEFRA policy.”

BLOG:With technologically-advanced biomass boilers, the UK could be a low carbon leader.

“Customers are also able to see how many kilos of biomass wood pellets they have used, with the system predicting and notifying when to reorder based on the current consumption rate and outside temperatures – all features unavailable to home owners using fossil fuel, oil boilers, and who may need to use a stick to estimate how much oil they have left in their tank!

“Misconceptions also exist when it comes to wood pellets as a fuel with some people imagining a lot of ash in an open fire. However, wood pellets are very energy dense, much more so than say logs, meaning that the amount of ash created is minimal. 

“It’s similar to a modern car’s fuel injection system, changing the operation of the engine to make sure it runs more cleanly while using the least amount of petrol. In comparison, most oil boilers are either on or off, with no way for home owners to improve performance – much like a 1960’s engine with carburettors. This is why most oil boilers are very inefficient over time, producing a lot of smoke with the household money going straight up the chimney.

“Market-leading biomass boilers are manufactured in Austria and Germany, where companies have grown from local SMEs into multi-million pound global businesses. They have invested in the clean, low-carbon technology of the future. 

“In comparison, the UK is home to some of the largest fossil fuel boiler producers, but we could have some of the most successful biomass boiler production facilities in Europe and worldwide if the Government were to provide a clear signal to support the biomass heat sector. Furthermore, by adopting biomass as part of a dedicated heat decarbonisation policy for rural and off-grid areas, this could also generate much-needed green jobs, help to deliver net zero targets and provide a solution for hard-to-heat homes.

“If fossil fuel boilers were banned and biomass adopted alongside other renewables, there would be a highly attractive opportunity for UK manufacturers to invest in biomass. This would encourage new plants to be built, fully supporting the rural economy, and allow us to meet increased wood fuel demand within the UK market - all produced from our very own UK woodlands.

“With a clear policy strategy, the UK could be a leader in biomass technology. Carbon reduction targets are a great start, but without an implementation plan to indicate how they will be achieved and without funding to incentivise change, we’ll still be using the same old dirty fossil fuelled systems for years to come.”

BHW! urges industry to get involved as Government releases its biomass strategy call for evidence

The strategy demonstrates that the use of bioenergy is a key factor in carbon reduction measures and recognises that biomass has played a prominent role, with the capacity for further savings and reductions in fossil fuel emissions.

This is especially true for rural and off-grid areas where electrification technologies such as air source heat pumps are unworkable in older buildings without significant upgrade to the network infrastructure costing billions of pounds or expensive, household energy efficiency improvements. 

However, the Call for Evidence now published by BEIS (Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy) is set to examine how and where sustainable biomass should/can be best used in order to meet net zero targets.

especially those in their infancy or lacking supply chain infrastructures, while continuing to subsidise fossil fuel use. We welcome the opportunity to submit our evidence and work closely with BEIS ministers and officials to shape a more workable heat decarbonisation policy in the run up to COP26.”

For more details on the Government’s Biomass Strategy Call for Evidence go to:

www.gov.uk/government/consultations/role-of-biomass-in-achieving-net-zero-call-for-evidence

However non-domestic projects have not been afforded the same RHI extension. There is now an urgent need for future heat decarbonisation policy to maintain the momentum seen over the last ten years, encouraging more commercial enterprises to convert to renewable energy, in particular, biomass systems, and not create a ‘gap’ for planned or potential installation projects to stall or cease altogether.

This is especially true for large scale organisations, especially those operating in rural areas such as agricultural producers, leisure/hotel operators, public buildings, distilleries and manufacturers, to name a few, where biomass is often their preferred or best suited heating solution. 

Mark Lebus of Biomass Heat Works! which is delivered by the UK Pellet Council, commented, “We are looking at a very big, missed opportunity if there is no workable scheme (or funding) in place that encourages commercial biomass installation projects to be planned or delivered in the short-term future. 

“Government policies and initiatives need to work with the market and be shaped accordingly, not create barriers to prevent these projects from being delivered. This also effects employment too, with the potential for many thousands of bioenergy workers with specialist skills across the supply chain, many in rural areas, to be lost forever.

“Disincentivising fossil fuel usage and encouraging future investment would prevent these polluting systems being replaced like for like, often because they are cheap, as this only creates more problems down the line. Investing now in the future, just like many other countries, would enable UK industries to specify renewable energy and the Government to reach carbon reduction targets. 

“Ministers are backing a green economic recovery with thousands of green jobs to be created from renewable energy technologies moving forward. Yet, the biomass heat industry already provides a commercially-ready solution supporting circa 46,000 bioenergy jobs. We just need, therefore, the right policy mechanism, continued Government support and the adequate funding, from previously allocated budgets, to do so. Unfortunately closure of the scheme creates a momentous gap, a barrier to change and a very worrying time for the industry.

“We hope to continue working with BEIS and other ministerial departments to offer valuable industry input and help or better shape future heat decarbonisation strategy.”

There does not appear to be any practical replacement schemes for the RHI, especially for the 4m off-grid homes and businesses across the UK currently. Whilst representatives understand the need for a blended approach to renewable technology, the focus seems to favour technologies that are either relatively new and unproven, require significant (and costly) infrastructure and network improvements, have markets and supply chains very much in their infancy, or have had, historically, a limited impact on heat decarbonisation targets to date. 

The biomass heat sector is also concerned that the lack of choice and no viable mechanism could also, potentially, lead consumers to revert back to using fossil fuels as cheaper backups, especially in hard to heat buildings or rural and off-grid areas. 

Mark added, “The phasing out of fossil fuels is still years away, especially as subsidies are still being offered and no carbon tax exists as a deterrent. Renewable technologies including biomass can facilitate a simple, straight forward shift to greener, cleaner energy now, at this moment, so adopting a technology-agnostic approach to policy would help to bridge that gap and maintain consumers’ switch based on location, building type and fuel suitability.”

Biomass now included in Government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme…

“I echo the Renewable Heat Association (REA) in that its inclusion in Phase Two allows for a whole building and technology-agnostic approach, especially when these types of properties can often have high or constant heat demands. This isn’t only relevant to urban buildings, but also the many thousands of properties situated in rural and off-grid areas where electrification solutions aren’t workable, and they’re classified as challenging or ‘hard to heat’. So while we continue to call for a dedicated, rural heat decarbonisation policy to better support these communities, we very much welcome this latest move by BEIS.”

Fellow UKPC Director and Managing Director of Pure Biofuel Ltd, Rupert Ralston, added, "We’re pleased to see the inclusion of biomass in Phase Two of the scheme. It is essential that biomass plays a role in any future decarbonisation initiative as it is one of the most proven technologies that is ready to be implemented, and is particularly effective among large public buildings which require high heat loads."

Phase Two of the Government’s Public Sector Decarbonisation Scheme will open to applications on 7 April.

Discussion: How is biomass a low carbon technology??

Biomass heat, along with other renewable technologies, has a positive role to play in reducing carbon emissions as part of net zero/heat decarbonisation policy. Often it is the only or best value solution for many thousands of homes and businesses, especially in more challenging rural or off-grid areas, enabling a switch from fossil fuels to low carbon heating. 

The use of biomass is however, for some, not a clear-cut, black and white issue with debates as to whether it is classed as a carbon-neutral, as opposed to low carbon or renewable technology, still ongoing. Furthermore, the use of biomass across other different industries can often cause confusion too, especially when images of mass deforestation and smoking power plants can very easily be misconstrued as being the same thing as the biomass heat sector.

However, when managed properly and sustainably, biomass can actually play a very proactive and positive role, especially for home and commercial heating as well as forestry management on a very local level. It is important therefore, especially in the run up to COP26 in November 2021, that the UK’s biomass heat industry is clearly defined and understood. Here are a few key points to consider about biomass:

• Well-managed forests and woodlands are not typically felled for bioenergy use alone. Biomass is one of the final or ‘waste/leftover’, low quality residue products created once many other requirements have been complete (ie once ‘high quality’ timber for construction, housing, furniture manufacturing etc have all been acquired. These products can also play a positive role in climate change action if replacing carbon-intensive alternatives such as steel, plastics, chemicals and fossil fuel to burn). Therefore, forest-based or ‘woody biomass’ such as wood pellets or wood chip play an important part in a sustainable forestry cycle, encouraging future growth.

• Good sustainable forests consist of trees of all different ages which are therefore harvested at varying times and stages. This creates a more balanced production cycle and a continuous flow of wood meaning that replanting, industry and long-term growth successfully work hand-in-hand.

• Due to this working cycle, any carbon losses are counteracted by carbon gains (in mass tree growth) so in any well-managed forest, there is a continuous exchange of carbon (ie ‘carbon neutral’). This means that there is no net release of CO2 and therefore biomass is considered to be a low carbon technology. 

• Burning biomass for energy use thereafter (eg wood pellets from forest residue) does emit carbon into the atmosphere, however trees will reabsorb this as they continue to grow. Good forestry management can therefore ensure that more CO2 is absorbed than released when burning biomass fuel.

• In contrast, fossil fuels contain carbon stored over millions of years and burning them releases these emissions into the atmosphere creating a significant net increase in greenhouse gases. This has led to the current climate crisis.

• Supply chains (eg cutting, hauling, processing) do not negate the climate benefits of using biomass as a low carbon, renewable energy source when compared to fossil fuels as they form such a small proportion of the overall energy consumed. Strict criteria is also in place to record and manage such data.

• For domestic or commercial end users, biomass can also make a substantial contribution when used as a heat decarbonisation solution alongside electrification, hydrogen and other technologies, especially when access to the grid is poor or impossible.

Energy Now

Mark Lebus of the UK Pellet Council and Biomass Heat Works! explains the need for biomass in rural and farming areas, and why a more tailored heat decarbonisation plan is required… 

“Biomass for heating has long been used by those living on and operating businesses in farming areas, as well as those in more remote or off-grid communities. Both domestic and commercial rural users, from private homeowners to pig and poultry farmers for example, all require an alternative yet reliable, cost-effective energy source, particularly given their locality and accessibility to the electricity grid.  

“The Government’s White Paper, published at the end of 2020, is still (it seems) very much urban-focused, relying on a ‘one size fits all’ approach for the UK to achieve carbon reduction and switch to renewable heat technology through electrification. 

“Whilst ambitious, it also overlooks the specifics needed, especially for rural and farming communities; ie the age of a building, the current heating system installed and whether additional connectivity to the local grid is possible. So, for the many thousands of older buildings in rural areas, it offers little in the way of incentive when the only option is a small subsidy towards an air source heat pump (ASHP) without regard to whether this will actually (effectively) work. 

“Biomass, a proven, renewable heat technology, has long been the ‘preferred solution’ for off-grid households so we’re calling on ministers to incorporate a more bespoke, technology-agnostic, rural heat decarbonisation strategy into future energy policy.

“However, there’s a much bigger picture and a much stronger argument for supporting and using biomass for heat in farming communities, and it goes a lot further than just reducing carbon emissions. 

“Achieving optimum energy efficiency is a major factor for most farmers given their remote location and the price-driven markets they operate in. For many agricultural businesses, such as poultry producers who have high or constant heating requirements, the use of biomass wood pellets has allowed them to remain energy efficient and cost-competitive.

“Another factor is creating and maintaining employment within these farming communities. The biomass heat industry supports up to 46,000 bioenergy jobs in the UK alone, the majority in non-urban areas. By working better collaboratively with other rural sectors including agriculture and tourism, we can further enhance and steadily grow an existing circular economy, creating more rural jobs and new business diversification opportunities; for example, providing renewable heating to old farm buildings converted into modern holiday accommodation. Many agricultural workers also work within the bioenergy sector during off-peak seasons to subsidise their income.

“Additionally, the potential to create a self-sufficient, UK-based wood fuel manufacturing market is also of huge importance, especially post-Brexit. 

“Simply put, the planting of millions of trees in rural areas as part of Defra policy and climate change commitments requires the correct systems and supply chains to be in place. Creating a market to handle increased ‘forest residues’ left from traditional forestry uses fully supports sustainable woodland management. 

“Local communities would reap the benefits too with investment in wood pellet manufacturing facilities, business growth in system installation, maintenance and fuel supply companies, and the creation of green jobs as part of the country’s economic recovery. 

“This all stems from the fact that a boiler needs biomass fuel for approximately 20 years and it’s a business model that should definitely be backed. 

“Even with such huge commercial potential, farming communities have long seen the benefits of biomass for household heating too. The UK has the oldest housing stock in Europe (75% of buildings in England were built before 1975) and a significant number of these are in rural settings. It therefore requires Government to look again at a wider set of solutions for these areas and their buildings, with biomass having a much larger role to play. 

“Rural communities should no longer have to play catch up when a more technology-neutral approach to eliminating fossil fuel usage (ie oil and LPG) could be adopted.

“It’s a complex issue and certainly one which cannot be overcome with a ‘one size fits all’ approach. I believe that those living in rural and farming areas would benefit from a more regionally-focused approach and a greater input into which technologies are best suited to the types of buildings they occupy.”

“Don’t forget our rural areas...”
Neil Holland of the UK Pellet Council explains how debate surrounding heat decarbonisation continues to overlook rural communities.

“As more and more think tank reports are published on UK heat decarbonation policy, it seems that one huge area of the country’s population continues to be overlooked; our rural communities.

“With heating accounting for 25% of the total national energy use and 15% of emissions, we need a clear strategy to move away from fossil fuels such as gas, coal and oil but many current solutions are best suited to urban areas, thus discounting over 17% of England’s population living in rural locations – a greater population than the whole of Greater London.

“80% of England’s land mass is considered to be rural, and this includes a staggering number of households and commercial buildings. However, it is in these rural, farming and off-grid areas that the solution to heat decarbonisation becomes a lot more complex and problematic. A quick fix, ‘one size fits all’ approach, such as air source heat pumps, is unworkable. 

“In rural areas, there is already limited capacity within electricity networks and little or no gas connection, so expansion of an electricity-led solution will cost billions more than the initial cost of the installation. A more technology-neutral, joined-up approach giving the consumer a choice depending upon suitability (in most rural cases, biomass) needs to be offered.

“So why then is the rural population being generally overlooked in current Government strategy?

“Rural communities need a very bespoke, regional or locally-focused approach depending upon their location and infrastructure. They operate very differently to urban areas with highly successful circular economies creating skilled jobs, economic growth, sustainability and self-sufficiency, and the land is an essential part of this. If rural policy is written from an urban perspective or viewpoint, it will not work.

“With 75% of buildings in England being built before 1975 and without significant investment to update the fabric of the building (eg insulation and windows), this is easily an additional £20k+ per property, alternative low heat technologies will not work. Heat technologies like ASHPs are a non-starter for many rural households, and yet, this is the preferred option of Government and many policy thinkers.

“In order for consumers, be they small businesses or households to switch from fossil fuels, the choice of technology used should be left to the owner of the building. Financial support will be required to encourage people to invest, and this is no different to the billions spent by Government to fund the National Grid and Natural Gas networks before privatisation.

“It should be clear to all that fossil fuels are to be banned. Government has announced that new natural gas installations are to end in 2023 but yet no dates are set to ban the dirtier, heating oil installations. As with the plan to end the sale of petrol and diesel cars, a similar plan should be in place for fossil fuel heating systems.”

Biomass heat is a UK-driven market providing localised benefits and supports 700+ supply chain companies and 46,000 bioenergy jobs. Biomass Heat Works! (delivered by the UK Pellet Council) is calling on ministers for a much more targeted, rural heat decarbonisation policy that brings together all elements of the industry; renewable energy solutions provided by local businesses, sustainable forestry management, domestic UK wood pellet manufacturing, rural economic growth and job security at a time when most needed.

Biomass Heat leaders welcome extension to the non-domestic RHI
at critical time

News that the UK Government and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) is to extend the Non-Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (NDRHI) for a further twelve month period from March 2021 has been greatly welcomed by biomass heat industry leaders. 

Representatives from the UK Pellet Council (UKPC) and Biomass Heat Works! are fully supportive of the move which, in light of current economic conditions, aims to help UK organisations including care homes, hospitals, food and agricultural producers, manufacturers and the public sector, for example, continue with renewable energy projects as part of the road map to net zero.

This latest announcement will mean that companies that had to delay renewable energy projects because of COVID19, including biomass heat installations, will now have more time to complete their project even though the NDRHI ends in March 2021. 

However, this will only apply to commercial enterprises with installation projects already in progress, although the qualification criteria has been expanded in this latest announcement. It will bridge a temporary one year gap in line with the Domestic RHI (DRHI) for both the client as well as hundreds of supply chain companies, giving a little more reassurance to projects over the forthcoming year. 

Mark Lebus, Chairman of the UK Pellet Council, commented, “This latest news by the Government is very much welcomed by the biomass heat industry and is one that will provide some level of reassurance and support during what has become a very uncertain time. We have worked continuously and closely with Government officials and various departments, particularly BEIS, over the last year to discuss the sector, its huge potential and to provide feedback on proposed policy, therefore we’re pleased that this twelve month amendment has been made in the short-term.

“Heat decarbonisation, especially in rural, non-urban areas, has become one of the most challenging aspects of UK net zero policy with biomass heat, as part of a technology-neutral mix, having the potential to create more green jobs, a greener economy and significantly reduce carbon emissions for the majority of off-grid households and businesses.

“We hope to continue working closely with BEIS to create a clear and positive path forward for biomass heat, especially where it is identified to be the most suitable solution for homes and commercial buildings.” 

Biomass heat is a UK-driven market, separate to that of the larger industrial power stations, that provides localised benefits and supports 700+ supply chain companies and 46,000 bioenergy jobs. 

Biomass Heat Works!, delivered by the UK Pellet Council, is calling on ministers for a much more targeted, rural heat decarbonisation policy that has an approach to net zero and brings together all elements of the industry; renewable energy solutions provided by local businesses, sustainable forestry management, domestic UK wood pellet manufacturing, rural economic growth and jobs security at a time when most needed.

More details regarding the changes to the Non-Domestic RHI can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/changes-to-the-renewable-heat-incentive-rhi-schemes

“An extraordinary exercise of the Government pushing aside the entire biomass heat industry…” #woodheat2020 conference

The first day of the Wood Heat Association’s ‘Wood Heat 2020’ conference ended with disappointing remarks from Government officials all but confirming that their ‘primary focus’for future heat decarbonisation policy is on air source heat pumps (ASHPs) and not biomass. 

Representatives from the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) strongly suggested that it was a ‘done deal’ and that they will ‘not move’ on plans put forward despite significant evidence demonstrating that ASHPs will fall far short of renewable energy and net zero targets. Instead, this will cost millions of pounds to implement, make little to no impact reducing gas and fossil fuel boiler installations, especially in off-grid areas, and could potentially put thousands of UK bioenergy jobs at risk at a time when employment is crucial.

The minimal and ‘very restricted’ use of biomass heat in planned policy now means that the industry is being effectively pushed out into the cold by the UK Government, even though it creates seven times more jobs that other renewable heat technologies. The sector supports 700+ supply chain companies, many of which are SMEs operating in non-urban areas, and offers customers in rural, farming and off-grid areas a straight forward, cost-effective solution to switch to renewable heating.

Mark Lebus, Chairman of the UK Pellet Council and Biomass Heat Works! commented, “There is a lot of frustration that the Government can simply turn its back on our sector without any clear evidence and set a whole industry up to fail despite knowing that biomass is one of the most proven and successful heat technologies available to reduce carbon emissions. When we have provided evidence as proof of its value within the renewable energy mix, where is the Government’s evidence and reasoning to vastly omit it from future net zero policy? It doesn’t make sense, especially as the policy claims to be technology neutral. 

“They have all but confirmed that they’re not prepared currently to fully back or invest in our sector going forward, but instead, provide incentives to the larger utilities. Even when biomass is the most suitable solution for a property, it was advised that customers must ‘demonstrate that first and foremost, ASHPs are not practical.’ This is no longer a technology-neutral policy.”

The Government has set aside £100m to prioritise new ASHP installations over all other technologies via the Clean Heat Grant Scheme, but it is estimated that this will only deliver 0.2% of requirements to address carbon emissions in buildings. 

Mark added, “A simple solution put forward to Government whilst maintaining the budget was to remove the time limitations and increase the cap to 50% match funding. This would allow the most appropriate technology to be installed without bias, significantly increasing UK jobs and relying less on cheaper, imported air source heat pumps.

“We feel like we are in a no-win situation which has been flawed from the start. Proposed policies are not addressing the problems nor providing any solutions, and when the supply chains are the same for non-domestic and domestic biomass installations, why extend one scheme for twelve months and not the other? It risks the collapse of the complete supply chain.”

Government officials also indicated that as part of the new Clean Heat Grant Scheme, an estimated 370 biomass boilers will be installed in the UK over a two year period. In stark contrast, Germany, which has publicly backed their biomass heat sector and the SMEs operating within it, received 44,453 new biomass installation applications over a six month period until the end of June 2020. By doing so as part of their own net zero policy, and providing incentives for customers to switch, Germany will now achieve in twelve months what the UK has done in ten years.

Mark concluded, “Whilst sentiments and efforts to replace fossil fuel usage are very much welcomed across all areas, the approach by Government needs to change. We will continue to work closely with ministers and officials, and welcome the BEIS Committee inquiry in November to examine the Buildings and Heat Strategy.”

Biomass heat is a UK-driven market, separate to that of the larger industrial power stations, that provides localised benefits and supports 700+ supply chain companies and 46,000 bioenergy jobs. Biomass Heat Works!, delivered by the UK Pellet Council, is calling on ministers for a much more targeted, rural heat decarbonisation policy that has an approach to net zero and brings together all elements of the industry; renewable energy solutions provided by local businesses, sustainable forestry management, domestic UK wood pellet manufacturing, rural economic growth and jobs security at a time when most needed.

Call to Government to stop ‘disjointed and scattergun approach’ to household carbon reduction policy

Representatives from the UK’s biomass heat industry are calling on Government to properly think through pledges and proposals aimed at reducing the country’s carbon emission levels after yet another announcement, this time pledging £160m to wind generation, was made by the Prime Minister. 

Whilst sentiments and efforts to replace fossil fuel usage are very much welcomed across all areas by biomass leaders, urgent calls are now being made for ministers to halt thedisjointed and scattergun approach to decarbonisation policy, in particular for home heating, whereby plans already put forward are largely flawed, especially for rural and off-gas grid areas. 

Current proposals vastly ignore workability, housing stock, accessibility and the significant investment required to upgrade the entire UK network should electrification for home heating be favoured overall. Whilst promising as a soundbite and seemingly preferred by officials from the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), the current direction of favouring air source heat pumps instead of giving consumers choice based on the property, its age and location, is destined for failure and will cost millions in the long run.

Furthermore, there have been questions raised by network operators on the additional costs to upgrade networks in order to cope with new installations. Some have suggested smart meters could cut off homes using higher amounts of electricity at peak times. Biomass representatives have therefore welcomed news that the BEIS Committee is to hold an inquiry into the path to future heat decarbonisation policy in November and examine the Government’s Buildings and Heat Strategy.

Neil Holland, Director of the UK Pellet Council, commented, “The biomass heat industry and those working within it are 100% behind all efforts to reduce carbon emissions and the use of fossil fuels, and whilst using certain technologies in certain areas makes perfect sense, a blanket ‘one size fits all’ approach to heat decarbonisation simply will not work. 

“The Government should be looking at a complimentary, mixed-technology approach that is fit-for-purpose depending upon housing stock and location so that customers are able to specify what best suits their property and their needs. If this approach is not adopted, rural communities and more remote, off-grid areas could be the hardest hit. 

“For rural homeowners to switch away from fossil fuel heating like oil or LPG to electrification, the networks in these areas simply would not cope with the demand. So, for ministers to keep favouring and pushing the likes of air source heat pumps in heat decarbonisation policy when the infrastructure does not exist and the level of investment is minimal, does not make sense. Even the network operators have themselves stated that they could resort to switching household power off using smart meters if there is too much pressure on the system*.   

“Yes, there needs to be a rapid transition away from fossil fuels, but net zero policy needs to have a workable and joined-up approach using different renewable technology options. Biomass, at the moment, is being restricted and vastly ignored in future strategy when for rural areas, it is proven to be the most suitable and lowest carbon option available to homes and businesses. Other countries have proven this time and time again, and are fully backing their industry with investment and incentives to aid recovery, so why aren’t we?

 “…add to this the huge benefits for the rural economy; ie creating sustainable ‘working forests’ and new woodlands that fit with Government ambitions, sustaining employment and a bioenergy supply chain of 46,000 jobs when most needed, and enabling consumers in challenging areas to easily switch to renewable energy for heating, it seems unfeasible that biomass is a very low priority. Biomass creates seven times more jobs than any other renewable technology so why isn’t the Government supporting it?”

Biomass heat is a UK-driven market, separate to that of the larger industrial power stations, that provides localised benefits and supports 700+ supply chain companies and 46,000 bioenergy jobs. Biomass Heat Works!, delivered by the UK Pellet Council, is calling on ministers for a much more targeted, rural heat decarbonisation policy that has a collaborative approach to net zero and brings together all elements of the industry; renewable energy solutions provided by local businesses, sustainable forestry management, domestic UK wood pellet manufacturing, rural economic growth and jobs security at a time when most needed.

Chancellor announces a series of new green initiatives

The Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP, has announced a series of new initiatives in his latest economic update (summer 2020) including a £3bn investment package to create more green jobs, improve energy efficiency and also, to help decarbonise parts of the economy. The statement featured:

• £1bn funding to help improve the energy efficiency of public sector buildings including hospitals, schools and council buildings

• £2bn Green Homes Grant whereby homeowners and landlords in England can, from September onwards, apply for vouchers to pay for ‘green improvements’.  

• £50m funding to shape and pilot a policy to decarbonise social housing.

It is estimated that the measures could make a total of 650,000 homes more energy-efficient, saving families £300 a year, cutting carbon emissions by half a megaton a year and help support around 140,000 green jobs.

Whilst the Government’s announcement may be encouraging and a step in the right direction, more support needs to be shown to the UK biomass industry which has already proven to be one of the most successful technologies in addressing heat decarbonisation as part of the RHI. The sector currently supports 46,000 jobs, many of which are SMEs operating in or creating new business/job opportunities in rural areas. However, the industry could create many more as part of a forward-thinking, collaborative net zero, heat decarbonisation and sustainable forestry management policy; all of which would work as a viable circular economy to further boost recovery in non-urban, rural and more remote areas. 
The foundations are already there but we need Government to better support the biomass heat sector, and help it reach its full potential as a UK-driven market with localised benefits, aiding sustainable woodlands, creating green jobs by finding a use for biomass as the 'waste' or 'unwanted' part of the tree (ie wood pellet production, system installers, fuel suppliers), and addressing heat decarbonisation, particularly in challenging areas (homes/businesses switching from fossil fuels to renewable energy). #biomassheatworks

Biomass industry leaders warn of significant impact if government consultation proposals are introduced

Representatives of the UK Pellet Council and Biomass Heat Works! are urging those supplying to, operating within or using biomass for domestic or commercial heating, to respond to an open government consultation which potentially suggests a ‘funding gap’ of one year if approved.

The online ‘Future Support for Low Carbon Heat’ consultation being delivered by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), outlines options to replace the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) which closes in March 2021. It includes a Clean Heat Grant Scheme whereby biomass heat projects could receive a maximum support grant of £4,000. 

This, if approved, is earmarked to come into effect from April 2022 meaning that new renewable heat installation projects between 2021and 2022 could be at huge risk and the market possibly collapsing if little to no financial incentive is available for customers. This would lead to a loss of jobs and investment at a time when the country needs it most.

Furthermore, biomass representatives are concerned that a possible grant of such limited financial amount would only cover boiler installations of up to approximately 15kW, meaning that a huge part of the UK market, especially larger commercial installations able to significantly reduce carbon emissions, would simply be overlooked. They are now urging individuals, owner-managers, suppliers and biomass users to get involved in the consultation and offer their feedback before the looming deadline (11:45pm on Tuesday 7 July 2020).

Mark Lebus, Chairman of the UK Pellet Council commented, “If the consultation proposals go ahead, it would mean that biomass could play a very minor, limited role in future heat decarbonisation strategy and wider net zero discussions, which as part of any future heat technologies mix, simply does not make sense. Biomass is widely and successfully used in remote, rural and off-gas grid areas because it is the most suitable and proven option available, so to potentially look to minimise its role when simultaneously trying to meet carbon reduction targets and create sustainable woodlands, seems way off the mark. 

“We’re talking here about biomass as the ‘waste’ part of the tree, the unwanted residue, but it plays a significant part in a circular economy, namely from forestry management to wood pellet production through to renewable heating installation and supply. 

“We are a completely separate industry to the larger, industrial sector which feeds the power stations, and should not be confused with it. Biomass heat, especially in rural and challenging, off-grid areas, is a UK-driven market with localised benefits. We support over 46,000 jobs, the vast majority in rural locations, 700 plus supply chain companies, and have enabled the Government to address heat decarbonisation as part of the RHI in challenging areas. 

“Whilst I acknowledge that the consultation is still ongoing, I urge those whose businesses, jobs, households or communities benefit from biomass in some way to offer their opinions as we could see a vast reduction in renewable heat projects over the next twelve months and beyond, and a potential return to fossil fuel for many.”

The ‘Future Support for Low Carbon Heat’ consultation is open until 11:45pm on Tuesday 7 July 2020and is available to view and submit responses here: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/future-support-for-low-carbon-heat

BHW! meets with Department for International Trade officials

Biomass Heat Works! representatives have held productive talks with officials from the Department for International Trade (DiT) to discuss how well the UK biomass heat industry is coping during Covid19 as well as wider issues that could both affect and benefit the sector.

Mark Lebus, Chair of the UK Pellet Council (UKPC) and CEO of LC Energy, and Neil Holland, Director of the UKPC and Managing Director of Y Pellets, spoke with Director General, John Mahon, and other DiT officials to discuss possible risks to domestic supplies during the pandemic, continued imports of wood pellets from Europe, future trade agreements post-Brexit, and the role the sector could play in a more global approach to net zero and climate change policy.

The virtual meeting is hopefully the first of many going forward, with Biomass Heat Works!, looking to work closely with Government over the coming months whilst representing pellet suppliers, system installers, supply chain operators and end users. 

It is hoped that ministers and other department officials will continue to recognise the proven benefit and full potential of biomass in heat decarbonisation policy, especially for rural or off-gas grid areas, as well as acknowledge the full potential of the UK industry if fully supported as part of a wider, more joined-up economic, renewable energy and forestry management approach.

Mark Lebus commented, “The talks were both productive and promising, and we look forward to picking up the conversation again in the very near future. We covered a lot of ground in a short space of time, from the current situation with Covid19 to future trade agreements, and how we could look at other avenues to explore in order to support those operating within the industry and make the UK biomass heat sector reach its full potential.

“There are several cross-department discussions taking place at the moment, with BEIS officials as well as the DiT, and whilst the economic landscape is challenging for everyone, we’re doing all we can to keep biomass and the UK wood pellet industry at the forefront of ministers’ plans.”

UK CORONAVIRUS CRISIS:
essential utility resources

The biomass industry offers its full support to the UK Government in what has become an unprecedented time for everyone.

With hundreds of the country’s frontline organisations, including hospitals, health and social care facilities, supermarkets and manufacturers, relying on biomass for heating and hot water whilst operating under immense pressure, our own wood pellet manufacturers and suppliers (keyworkers) are working hard to deliver much needed fuel as part of the national effort.

We’re liaising closely with Government ministers and BEIS officials to keep them fully updated on developments within the biomass sector, whilst also maintaining that UK wood fuel supply chains are kept fully open at this time. This includes the production, importation and transportation nationwide of biomass wood pellets and wood chip, and so far, this has been assured.

Biomass Heat Works!, on behalf of the UK Pellet Council, is absolutely committed to supporting Government,
frontline staff, organisations, customers and those working within our industry during this crisis.

Changes to the existing Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) schemes.

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy has (28 April 2020) announced the Government’s intention to make changes to the existing Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) schemes. The proposals are:

• to extend the domestic Renewable Heat Incentive scheme until 31 March 2022

• to introduce a third allocation of flexible tariff guarantees under the non-domestic Renewable Heat Incentive scheme

• to extend the commissioning deadlines for projects currently holding a Tariff Guarantee until at least mid-March 2021

More details can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/changes-to-the-renewable-heat-incentive-rhi-schemes

The heating of homes, businesses and industry is responsible for a third of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions, and decarbonisation of heat is one of the biggest challenges the country faces in meeting climate change targets. A consultation will also set out proposals for:

• a Green Gas Support Scheme: increasing the proportion of green gas in the grid through support for biomethane injection

• a Clean Heat Grant: support for heat pumps and in certain circumstances biomass, through an upfront capital grant to help address the barrier of upfront cost

• budget control and financial management of the spending proposals for green gas and buildings technologies

• participant compliance 

More information can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/future-support-for-low-carbon-heat

Calls for critical biomass supply chains to remain open to support frontline workers during crisis

Industry leaders are urging Government to keep UK wood fuel supply chains fully open to ensure suppliers can continue delivering to home heating customers and key frontline organisations and businesses already under immense pressure due to the Coronavirus outbreak.

With hundreds of hospitals, health and social care facilities, supermarkets and many large-scale food producers already working to maximum capacity and relying solely on biomass wood fuel for heating and hot water, the industry is asking ministers for full reassurance that UK production, wood pellet imports and transportation of biomass fuel all remain open.

Biomass is an essential utility resource, especially for rural areas, and the wood fuel supply chain (wood pellets and wood chip) requires UK production and imported pellets in equal measure. 

Biomass Heat Works! (the UK Pellet Council and Wood Heat Association) is therefore urgently asking the Department for Transport (DfT), the Department for International Trade (DIT) and the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS), to work closely with them and ensure crucial fuel supplies are maintained.

The Department for Environment, Food, Agriculture and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) also has a crucial role in ensuring wood fibre supply chains remain open for UK biomass production and the jobs they support across the economy.  

This is especially prevalent for rural and farming areas given that many large-scale agricultural food producers, now critical to the UK’s food supply chain, specify biomass wood fuel for their heating requirements. For example, one of the UK’s largest poultry producers uses approximately 20,000 tonnes of wood pellets per annum across sites nationally.  

Similarly, one of the country’s leading supermarket chains, now at the forefront of supply chain efforts, heats almost 100 of its sites using biomass wood pellets. This equates to circa 30,000 tonnes per annum with deliveries to each store every 2-3 weeks. 

Annual wood pellet usage in the UK equates to approximately 700,000 tonnes, but this demand is expected to rise given many people are now also working from home. Biomass Heat Works! representatives, whilst fully supportive of the Government’s current emergency and contingency plans, are now looking for a collaborative approach from ministers to enable the industry to support the national effort.

Mark Lebus, Chair of the UK Pellet Council, explained, “These are unprecedented times and nobody could have foreseen the impact which this outbreak is having, and unfortunately will continue to have, in the short-term. It is therefore essential that key frontline organisations like the NHS and healthcare providers, other essential businesses like supermarkets, food producers and manufacturers supplying much needed items, and key workers, can 100% rely on our industry to provide critical biomass heating in a time of crisis.

“Our suppliers are pulling out all the stops to ensure that wood fuel deliveries get there on time. However, with imported pellets coming into most ports in the UK on almost a weekly basis, we’re asking Government to include us in their planning as they would do for traditional fossil fuels, and ensure the free movement into and around the UK. Suppliers have already implemented strict social distancing policies to ensure no contact is maintained when delivering, and therefore we must keep frontline organisations, as well as homes and businesses located in rural areas, heated and operational.”

Biomass suppliers pull out all the stops to ensure essential wood fuel deliveries

UK biomass suppliers are pulling out all the stops to ensure that customers have sufficient supply of wood fuel throughout the Coronavirus public health crisis. 

With contingency plans in full swing, frontline organisations working under immense pressure and a vast number of people now working from home, wood pellet/chip companies across the UK are experiencing heightened demand for essential biomass energy supplies. 

For the wellbeing of customers and delivery staff, suppliers have now implemented strict social distancing measures to ensure safe and continuous fuel deliveries. These include drivers maintaining a safe distance from customers whilst on site, leaving paperwork in allocated places with no contact, completing deliveries, if necessary, outside of usual business hours to minimise risk, and delivering to unmanned homes and buildings, especially if self-isolating. 

Neil Holland, Board Member of the UK Pellet Council and MD of Y Pellets explained, “Customers are fully aware that such measures are now 100% necessary. Suppliers up and down the country have implemented huge changes to ensure people can still receive their fuel without drivers being put at risk.

“However, on behalf of our industry, I ask for any home or business that is in isolation, or possible lock down such as care homes and healthcare facilities, to contact their supplier ASAP so that site-specific requirements can be arranged to reduce any potential risk. 

“We may also endure potential restrictions to travel as we go through this public health crisis therefore the industry is working very closely as one to ensure all customers receive sufficient fuel for heating. There is enough fuel in stock for the foreseeable future but wherever possible, people should plan ahead as the measures we’re taking are for the good of everyone.”  

Biomass leaders welcome Chancellor’s first budget speech outlining RHI extension 

Biomass industry leaders have today welcomed news that the UK Chancellor, the Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP, has announced £100m funding and a twelve months’ extension to the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) giving the sector a level of certainty in terms of protecting jobs and delivering short-term renewable heat projects.

In his first Budget speech, the Chancellor set out the Government’s funding commitments for low carbon heat including:

• £100 million of exchequer funding in total for 2022/23 and 2023/24 for grant-funding for households and small non-domestic buildings, to install heat pumps, or biomass in limited circumstances, to replace fossil fuel heating. This will form part of government action to help build supply chains ahead of future measures to phase out high-carbon heating; and 

• £270m for a Green Heat Network Fund to run from 2022 to 2025, to follow on from our Heat Network Investment Project. This new targeted fund will ensure that heat networks adopt the most cost-effective low carbon heat sources and will avoid locking in gas generation in the sector.

 Ahead of such schemes being established, the Chancellor also confirmed that the Government will also:

• extend the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (DRHI) for a year in 2021/22, maintaining support for heat pumps, biomass and solar thermal;

• Introduce a third allocation of Tariff Guarantees under the Non-domestic RHI (NDRHI). These will be available for all technologies that have been eligible for the previous two allocations. 

Mark Lebus of Biomass Heat Works! and Chair of the UK Pellet Council, commented, “This is positive news from the Chancellor and a step in the right direction for both the biomass heat industry and the UK Government regarding delivering heat decarbonisation, net zero policy. The announcement now provides a degree of clarity and certainty to protect and sustain 46,000 jobs and 700+ supply chain companies, as well as push on with new investment and renewable heat installation projects in the short-term. 

“£100m funding to replace fossil fuel heating in homes and small, non-domestic buildings and an extension to the RHI post 2021, albeit for twelve months, is essential to address climate change issues whilst encouraging a continued switch to renewable energy. It will also play a key part in the supply chain process when creating new woodland areas so we’re supportive of the Budget announcement made today and very much welcome the opportunity to work closely with BEIS ministers to develop and deliver future policy.” 

A consultation will be launched shortly by Government setting out details on the proposals for new exchequer grant-funding to support biomass deployment, andpublish further information on the proposed changes to the RHI schemes and the future of the Non-Domestic RHI scheme. The Government will also be consulting on details of the Green Heat Network Fund later in the year.

For the 2020 Spring Budget statement go to https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/budget-2020-documents/budget-2020

Shadow BEIS minister visits energy site to see biomass supply chain in action

Biomass Heat Works! representatives have spent time with leading Labour MP, Shadow Energy Minister and climate change campaigner, Dr Alan Whitehead MP, demonstrating how the biomass heat industry is playing an essential role in supporting the UK’s net zero carbon policy.

Dr Whitehead visited a large biomass CCHP site in Middlesex to see its biomass system in operation, as well as the local supply chain in action from the manufacture and supply of sustainable wood fuel through to how biomass has helped one organisation reduce its carbon output by an estimated 10,000 tonnes of CO2 per annum compared to natural gas.

He also spoke to the wood fuel supply company and the biomass site team to discuss the importance of renewable energy moving forward, the opportunities that exist regarding future investment and jobs creation if support for biomass heat continues, as well as how a collaborative, joined-up approach, working closely with the forestry sector, could encourage sustainable woodland management initiatives and a stronger, circular, economy for rural areas. 

Mark Lebus from Biomass Heat Works! and Managing Director of LC Energy, commented, “This has been an extremely worthwhile visit and we are delighted that Dr Whitehead, as an avid energy and climate change campaigner, has given his time to see our biomass industry first hand. He has a thorough understanding of what is required in terms of addressing heat decarbonisation issues, especially the creation of new woodlands and the importance of woodland management in bringing natural and local resources into reducing our reliance on fossil fuels for heating. 

“I am very reassured that Dr Whitehead will use today’s visit to push the Government for clarity on the future of the biomass heat sector and whether an extension to the RHI is forthcoming. An industry which supports 46,000 jobs and has significant potential for growth will be crucial to deliver net zero when linked with carbon capture technology, as well as helping deliver the proposed 60 million tree planting initiative by 2024. We therefore welcome his support.” 

Biomass Heat Works! has recently written to the Chancellor, the Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP, to ask for continued funding as a matter of urgency given the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) runs out in March 2021. This includes additional funding within an extended scheme to ensure installations are properly assessed for energy efficiency, providing consumer protection and carbon reduction assurances, as well as the start of reductions in subsidies for fossil fuel usage in heating.

Biomass, as part of the RHI, has been the most successful technology used by homes and businesses switching to renewable energy heat sources, especially in rural and off-gas grid areas. However, the sector, which employs 46,000 jobs, supports 700 supply chain companies and has reduced carbon emissions by approximately 50 million tonnes, is now at risk of falling off a cliff edge if continued Government support is not assured. 

Biomass, as part of the RHI, has been the most successful technology used by homes and businesses switching to renewable energy heat sources, especially in rural and off-gas grid areas. However, the sector, which employs 46,000 jobs, supports 700 supply chain companies and has reduced carbon emissions by approximately 50 million tonnes, is now at risk of falling off a cliff edge if continued Government support is not assured.

Mark Lebus from Biomass Heat Works! and Chair of the UK Pellet Council which is delivering the campaign, commented, “The biomass heat sector is fully supportive of the UK’s net zero, carbon reduction and renewable energy pledge, and given our success over the last decade in reducing carbon emissions and enabling people to switch to renewable heat, we’re perfectly positioned to carry on and deliver these commitments moving forward. 

“Biomass is the most proven and best ROI renewable technology at the Government’s disposal, especially for rural areas, and also supports the forestry management infrastructure needed to deliver the planting of 30 million trees by 2024.There is a very successful supply chain network and workable circular economy already in existence, but the uncertainty we have currently, looking beyond 2021, is stifling the industry. 

“New renewable heating projects are stalling, job creation is being put on hold, future business investments are being compromised and a highly successful sector is at risk of demise. By funding a new, extended RHI, holding onto its successes and tailoring it accordingly, this could encourage over 850,000 households and 60,000 businesses in rural areas who are currently using oil or LPG for heating, to switch. 

“We’re therefore asking the Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP to get behind our industry and allocate the funding required to extend the RHI, protect jobs and help the Government achieve net zero targets through effective heat decarbonisation policy.”   

With support, the biomass heat industry has the potential to grow to 80,000 UK jobs by 2026 and 100,000 by 2030, whilst contributing £2bn annually to the economy. 

Furthermore, should the Government begin its tree planting initiative, this, through accredited woodland management schemes, could generate an additional six million tonnes of residue for biomass use, created from thinnings and low value wood. 

Neil Harrison, Chair of the Wood Heat Association added, “The current estimated annual usage is over two million tonnes of residue per annum, therefore by working hand-in-hand with the UK’s forestry sector, the biomass industry would be sustained for years to come. 

“However, the critical mass that has already been built up in biomass supply chains since the RHI was first introduced back in 2011 is vital in helping the UK to start reaching its ambitious carbon reduction targets.  

“For progress and momentum to be maintained, Government support for the decarbonisation of heat should remain at the core of renewable energy policy. Biomass has proved itself time and time again and with a collaborative, joined up approach, its attendant supply chains would drive sustainable woodland establishment and management, whilst creating jobs and improving landscapes.”

2020 – make or break for biomass heat? Linda Taylor of AMP Clean Energy discusses…

A year ago, I optimistically predicated that 2019 would be a break-through year for biomass. Whilst evidence of biomass’ potential to help meet the UK’s renewable heat targets mounted during the year, this was not fully recognised and capitalised upon. Indeed, we still have no news on a possible extension or replacement of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) which has been very successful in decarbonising a range of homes, businesses and public sector organisations. With the UK still woefully off-track in meeting its heat decarbonisation targets, it really is now or never for the biomass heat industry.

A raft of esteemed publications from the likes of the Committee on Climate Change and the IEA stated that biomass had an important role to play in the transition to a low carbon economy. The REA completed a bioenergy review which stressed that upscaling biomass was key to achieving heat decarbonisation. 

2019 was also the year that the biomass heat industry came together and spoke with one voice about the benefits of biomass. The Biomass Heat Works campaign, led by the UK Pellet Council (UKPC) and the Wood Heat Association (WHA) , was launched to call on the Government to include biomass heat in future energy policy. The industry will unite around this message when the WHA and UKPC once again join forces to host a joint conference in April.

In the face of such persuasive evidence and campaigning why have we not seen the biomass heat industry grow? 

One reason is that biomass has always faced criticism in some circles over its sustainability credentials, unfairly tarred with the label ‘dirtier than coal’. In the UK there are strict and comprehensive sustainability management systems which ensure that biomass leads to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions while complying with wider sustainability objectives. Furthermore, reputable organisations, including the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), have said that properly managed forest biomass resources are ‘low carbon.’ 

Biomass has also been in the firing line over air quality issues which comes back to the negative connotations of burning wood. The reality is that modern biomass boilers have a much better air quality performance record than traditional wood burning methods. Such boilers are already regulated for particulate emissions levels under the RHI, which also builds air quality into the planning process. In comparison, oil and coal boilers are not assessed or regulated in any way. This includes large industrial users with Heavy Fuel Oil.

One thing which can’t be disputed is that biomass delivers carbon reductions. When replacing oil or electric heating greenhouse gas savings from biomass can be as high as 90%. Even displacing natural gas emissions savings of between 73-90% can be achieved. Biomass heat has been the most successful technology under the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) for decarbonising the public sector, agriculture, leisure, schools and academies as well as care homes. In the agricultural sector, biomass use for heating has grown considerably in the last ten years and now makes up 35% of energy use.

The fate of the industry now lays with the UK government who must decide whether they want to capitalise on biomass heat. If they do, bold and innovative policy measures which constrain the continued use of fossil fuels for heating and encourage the update of renewable alternatives, are urgently needed. The UK biomass heat market, which is well established and supported by robust supply chains, is ready and able to respond to increasing demand. Here’s hoping that 2020 is the year we see the potential of biomass being put into practice.

PM indicates ‘successor arrangements’ to RHI

Responding to a question from Cheltenham MP, Alex Chalk, in Prime Minister’s Questions (Wednesday 22 January), Boris Johnson has indicated that the UK Government is looking into ‘successor arrangements’ in relation to the current Renewable Heat Incentive. The RHI comes to a close in March 2021 and at present, no policy or future heat decarbonisation strategy has been tabled. 

Biomass Heat Works! aims to work closely with Government ministers and officials from the Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) to develop workable solutions moving forward, with biomass playing an integral role, especially for rural and farming areas.

Major rural body to work with Biomass Heat Works! campaign to further
UK decarbonisation agenda

Another major nationwide body, this time representing organisations and Councils serving England’s rural areas and communities, is working with the Biomass Heat Works! campaign which is calling for main political parties to protect approximately 46,000 jobs by extending the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme (RHI) and include biomass heat in future energy policy.

 The Rural Services Partnership, part of the Rural Services Network (RSN) which champions rural causes, economic growth and strategy, and provides a national voice for remote, farming and non-urban communities, is working with the UK’s biomass industry and other key players in the energy sector as part of its own wider agenda on renewable energy, climate change and decarbonisation.

 Clear synergies exist between the RSN, the UK Pellet Council and the Wood Heat Association, the latter two organisations delivering Biomass Heat Works! 

Representatives from each body have expressed their concern over the lack of commitment by past and current ministers to prioritise rural areas in renewable energy policies.

 Graham Biggs, CEO of the Rural Services Network commented, “Rural communities are fully committed to playing their role in reducing carbon emissions. However, homes and businesses cannot be overlooked and left behind urban areas when it comes to heat decarbonisation.

 “The Biomass Heat Works! campaign sits very well with our own policies addressing climate change and supporting net zero pledges, but it is essential that there is a clear renewable energy strategy in place by Government for rural communities too and at present, there is no indication that this exists. 

“Biomass usage in rural areas has increased significantly, especially since the RHI was first introduced, and this has created fantastic opportunities for businesses to diversify, create jobs and generate income. These are viable and sustainable circular economies for those living and working in rural communities and in the current economic climate, it is essential that jobs and livelihoods are maintained whilst successfully tackling climate change. We’re delighted to be working with the UK Pellet Council and Wood Heat Association.”

Many rural communities and businesses use or have diversified into using biomass as a heat source given it is often the most viable or lowest carbon option available in off-gas grid areas. 

Neil Holland of the UK Pellet Council added, “Many of the biomass heat industry’s 700 plus supply chain companies operate or are based in rural locations, creating thousands of much-needed jobs, therefore the RSN working with us is a huge boost.

“Green issues have been placed very much at the forefront of political agendas currently, and this is undoubtedly a huge step in the right direction. However, it cannot be just vote-winning narrative and soundbites. 

“Unlike other European countries, the contribution towards a zero-carbon future made by biomass is still very much being overlooked here in the UK despite it being the most proven and commercially-ready solution available for heat decarbonisation, especially in rural areas. The Government, whichever party is in power, needs to take urgent action and thereby extend support for the industry beyond 2021 to maintain the switch from fossil fuel to renewable energy heat. This would make a significant contribution to the 2050 carbon reduction targets whilst making rural businesses more resilient and homes more energy efficient.”

Recent evidence suggests that the UK could almost triple its use of bioenergy as a heat source from 6% to 16% by 2032 and achieve net zero targets by 2050, with biomass being a major contributor.[1]As yet, no other measures are tabled by Government for when the current RHI scheme closes to new applications in March 2021, and this lack of forward planning is having significant impact on the development of future projects, especially for larger scale biomass heat schemes, potential new jobs as well as creating increasing uncertainty within the wider biomass supply chain. 

https://www.bioenergy-strategy.com/

UK Pellet Council and the Wood Heat Association release 2019 general election manifesto for heat decarbonisation…

Leaders from the biomass heat industry including the Wood Heat Association (WHA) and UK Pellet Council (UKPC), who coordinate the Biomass Heat Works! campaign, are urging political parties to recognise the importance of having strong heat decarbonisation polices within their election manifestoes.

Heat accounts for over a third of UK greenhouse gas emissions. The installation of biomass heat boilers has been fundamental in efforts to decarbonise the heat sector, accounting for 85% of non-domestic renewable heat installations, delivering immediate carbon reductions in the hardest to treat areas.

However, the UK is facing a dearth of renewable heat policy with the Renewable Heat Incentive set to close in 2021. This is already impacting the industry with deployment slowing, jobs under threat and skills being lost, all of which is undermining the UK’s ability to realise net zero emissions by 2050. 

The UK Pellet Council and Wood Heat Association are therefore asking for the following to be given precedence as key heat decarbonisation priorities by party manifesto writers and potential parliamentary candidates:

1. The Renewable Heat Incentive is the primary heat decarbonisation mechanism in Great Britain and is due to expire in 2021. The majority of the renewable heat industry relies on this mechanism to encourage decarbonisation and no plan is in place for its replacement. The Biomass Heat Works! campaign calls for an immediate, time-limited extension to the RHI to keep the industry going as the lack of certainty is already stifling new investment in the sector.

2. Implement a more effective taxation system that incentivises the use of biomass heating systems and fuels, while penalising the dirtiest fuels by gradual increases in fuel duties.

3. In the medium term, a new mechanism is needed that supports heat decarbonisation past 2021, such as introducing a heat premium feed-in scheme that rewards low carbon heat users across domestic, non-domestic and industrial contexts.

4. Provide variable tax benefits to those who live or own properties with high energy efficiency standards and renewable heating installed. This should include rebates on income tax or council tax or discounting stamp duties at the point of sale. This would strengthen the link between energy efficiency and house prices.

5. Amend the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS) to focus on carbon emission reductions, rather than just energy savings. This will drive commercial installations of renewable heating systems, such as biomass boilers.

6. Provide government backed low interest loans for commercial heating schemes.

7. Address barriers to the deployment of district heating, prioritising those fuelled by renewable sources (e.g. biomass CHP).

8. Support biomass boilers as a key technology for use in the Future Homes Standard.
   

   Useful links:

   Wood Heat Association http://www.woodheatassociation.org.uk/

   UK Pellet Council http://www.pelletcouncil.org.uk/

   REA Bioenergy Strategy which demonstrates the potential for biomass heat: https://www.bioenergy-strategy.com/ 

Scotland Announces New Green Investment Programme to Accelerate
Net Zero Emissions

In a bid to reach Scotland’s net zero carbon emissions objectives by 2045, First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, has invited councils, developers and other organisations to pitch for large-scale investment to support a range of sustainable projects mainly covering renewables, waste, transport and the circular economy.

Estimated to be worth approximately £3bn over a three year period, the Green Investment Portfolio is due to be launched in Spring 2020 to the first round of projects and will help companies to better market their solution, reach commercialisation and attract private investment.

The Scottish Government will partner with Scottish Enterprise, the Scottish National Investment Bank, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Scottish Futures Trust, UK Department for International Trade, Scottish Renewables and the Scottish Property Federation.

Buying an eco-boiler? What you should know.

By Neil Harrison, Chairman of the Wood Heat Association and Director of re:heat

As a recent case regarding the mis-selling of a biomass boiler to a couple in Derby highlighted, the following advice should be considered by customers when looking to buy technology designed to heat homes and businesses without contributing to climate change.

Since the introduction of the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) in November 2011 and the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive in April 2014, approximately 92,000 renewable heating systems have been fitted in homes and businesses in the UK. 

Supported by seven years of financial payments for domestic systems and 20 years for those in commercial premises, the RHI has helped to deliver the highest ever number of renewable heating installations and been a key part of government energy policy. It’s absolutely vital that this and other tools are used to increase the amount of renewable heating in the UK (currently at 7% of total heat). A very sobering fact when you consider that heating buildings and processes accounts for around 37% of the UK’s total carbon emissions – more than either electricity production or transport.

Due to the nature of the RHI, which involves the owner of the system entering into a contract with the Government via the regulator – Ofgem, it means that there are certain requirements and obligations placed on the owner of the equipment. The good news is that if you meet these obligations, you will receive payments in return for making the switch to a low-carbon heating option. The Government is paying you to avoid carbon emissions – effectively the reverse of the carbon taxes on fossil fuels which are common elsewhere in the world.

Not meeting the obligations set out in the RHI has some fairly serious consequences, so there are certain things you should do to protect yourself from falling foul of the regulations, and of course, mis-selling:

 For domestic systems, ensure that your installed is on the most up-to-date MCS list;

• Make sure that your installer is registered with a consumer protection scheme such as the Renewable Energy Consumer Code;

• As with having a new bathroom fitted or driveway paved, speak to other people who have had a biomass or other renewable heating system installed and at the very least, ask the potential installer for reference sites you can visit and/or speak to their previous customers

For commercial systems, it’s a little more trickier but there are still a few simple common sense measures you can take to protect your company:

Obtain quotes from a number of suppliers and compare what each is proposing – if there are glaring differences or something doesn’t quite add up, challenge them to justify their quotation;

• For a larger scheme, consider employing an experienced consultant or engineer to design a specification on your behalf. Then use that to procure the system that you need – not what someone wants to sell you;

• Use reputable companies who are registered with a kitemark or customer protection scheme, or who are members of a professional body or trade association such as the Wood Heat Association or Ground Source Heat Pump Association;

• Ask to see their previous installations – speak to the business owners and make sure their experience is a positive one.

As with anything in life, if doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Be sure not to believe the ‘salesman with the story’ of something that’s too good to be true – it’s rarely, if ever, what they make it out to be.

NFU backs Biomass Heat Works! campaign calling out Government on rural decarbonisation policy…

The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) has pledged its support to the Biomass Heat Works! campaign, the biomass heat industry’s call for UK Government to act now, protect approximately 46,000 jobs, extend the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme (RHI) and raise fossil fuel duties to help meet carbon emission targets.

 Following the launch of the NFU’s own blueprint vision to cut carbon emissions to net zero within farming by 2040, the 55,000 member-strong organisation has extended its support to the campaign given that many of its members use or have diversified into using biomass as a renewable energy heat source.

 Biomass in rural areas can create successful, workable circular economies across farming, agriculture and forestry sectors and is often the most viable and lowest carbon option available to businesses and households in off-gas grid areas.  

Given the UK Government’s pledge to cut carbon emissions to net zero by 2050, it is essential that rural households and businesses aren’t left behind their urban counterparts when it comes to future heat decarbonisation strategies, especially given that many of the biomass heat industry’s 700+ supply chain companies operate rurally.

The NFU’s backing of the Biomass Heat Works! campaign is a huge boost and one which has been welcomed by industry leaders.

 Neil Holland of the UK Pellet Council, which along with the Wood Heat Association is delivering the Biomass Heat Works! campaign, explained, “We’re delighted that the NFU have pledged its support to the campaign as a vast number of its members up and down the country are advocates of biomass heat. 

“There is a much bigger picture that the Government needs to urgently consider here, and that is by extending the RHI and specifying biomass as the most proven and commercially-ready solution to decarbonising heat in rural areas, we can also create a highly sustainable rural economy, good employment opportunities and business growth in agricultural industries going forward. 

“The UK’s biomass industry employs almost four times the number of those working within the country’s fishing industry[1]and already, over 30% of non-domestic biomass capacity is within the agricultural sector. Therefore, Government support and investment in the biomass sector, as in other European countries, would make a significant contribution to the 2050 carbon reduction targets whilst making rural businesses more resilient and homes more energy efficient. 

Dr Jonathan Scurlock, Chief Advisor (Renewable Energy and Climate Change) at the National Farmers’ Union added, “The farming industry is fully committed to realising its net zero vision and there are clear environmental and economic benefits for farmers by taking action now. The Biomass Heat Works campaign sends a clear message to Government and demonstrates how renewable energy, in particular, biomass, must play an integral role in the UK’s future energy mix, especially in rural areas which sits very well alongside our own net zero ambitions. 

“Clear synergies exist between the UK Pellet Council, Wood Heat Association and the NFU, so we are highly supportive of the campaign.”

Recent evidence suggests that the UK could almost triple its use of bioenergy as a heat source from 6% to 16% by 2032 and achieve net zero targets by 2050, with biomass being a major contributor.[2]As yet, no other measures are tabled by Government for when the RHI closes to new applications in March 2021, and this lack of forward planning is having significant impact on the development of future projects, especially for larger scale biomass heat schemes, potential new jobs as well as creating increasing uncertainty within the wider biomass supply chain. 

ENDS 30 Sept 2019

[1]https://www.gov.uk/government/news/fishing-industry-in-2017-statistics-published

[2]https://www.bioenergy-strategy.com/

Urgent calls for Government to extend the RHI following new bioenergy review report…

Urgent calls for the UK Government to extend (and commit to) the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme after 2021 have been made by the Biomass Heat Works! campaign following today’s publication of a new bioenergy report (05 September 2019).

Leaders from the biomass industry, including the UK Pellet Council (UKPC) and the Wood Heat Association (WHA) which are behind the Biomass Heat Works! campaign, are urging ministers to act now and specify biomass as the most proven solution for addressing heat decarbonisation, especially in rural areas, after evidence suggests that the UK could almost triple its use of bioenergy as a heat source from 6% to 16% by 2032 and achieve net zero targets by 2050, with biomass being a major contributor.[1]

Serious calls for an extension to the RHI scheme are now being made after the launch of the Renewable Energy Association’s (REA) ‘Bioenergy Strategy Review’ report. This would allow new renewable heat projects to be funded thereby helping the UK to meet EU targets by 2020 (12% heat source) and also its net zero emission pledge by 2050.

As yet, no other measures are tabled by Government for when the RHI closes to new applications in March 2021, and this lack of forward planning is having significant impact on the development of future projects, especially for larger scale biomass heat schemes, potential new jobs as well as creating increasing uncertainty within the wider biomass supply chain.

Biomass contributes to more than 46,000 jobs across the UK’s bioenergy sector equating to almost four times the number of people working in UK fisheries (11,700 with 2,000 of these being part-time jobs[2]) and 14,000 more jobs than the steel industry[3]. Given the current economic and environmental climate, biomass should, therefore, play a key role in the country’s future renewable energy mix.

Mark Lebus, Chair of the UK Pellet Council, explained, “Time is running out and this latest report backs our call for the Government to fully support and invest in the UK’s biomass heat industry. Ministers need to address the heat decarbonisation issue here and now, and enable the most effective, commercially ready and proven, low carbon solution, ie biomass, to play an integral role in delivering their objectives and reducing carbon emissions.  

“The biomass heat industry supports circa 700+ supply chain companies and this must be protected, especially in rural communities where biomass can create a workable circular economy across farming, agriculture and forestry sectors. It is often the most viable and lowest carbon option available to businesses and households in off-gas grid areas.

“By extending the RHI, which has already demonstrated significant return on investment for successive Governments, we can maintain industry growth and momentum, create further employment stability, stimulate an extra 150MW of thermal capacity annually, and provide certainty amongst consumers as carbon pricing and fossil fuel duties take effect. The Government cannot afford to simply let this drop off a cliff edge.

“Ministers must act now and send a very strong signal to the market to discourage fossil fuel usage, encouraging the use of renewable alternatives, and a time-limited extension and open commitment to a more simplified version of the RHI would achieve that.”

Renewable heat generation increased by 11% in 2018 with almost 50% of this increase being due to biomass alone, However, in relation to decarbonising heat in other European countries and their reliance on bioheat, the UK (5.6%) is lagging way behind its counterparts including Sweden (59.5%), Finland (50.7%) and Portugal (33.8%)[4] at a time when it has declared a climate emergency. The Biomass Heat Works! campaign is therefore urging the UK Government to build on the most successful renewable heating programme instead of abandoning it.

ENDS 05 Sept 2019

The Bioenergy Strategy, which identifies the importance of increasing deployment of biomass heat, is available here: https://www.bioenergy-strategy.com/publications

Approximately 18% of renewable heat was supported by the RHI in 2018 compared with 14% in 2017, with non-domestic heat generation supported by the scheme increasing by 32% (medium capacity biomass boilers accounting for 50%)[5]

[1] https://www.bioenergy-strategy.com/

[2] https://www.gov.uk/government/news/fishing-industry-in-2017-statistics-published

[3] https://fullfact.org/economy/british-steel/

[4] Bioenergy Europe Statistical Report 2018

[5] https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/digest-of-uk-energy-statistics-dukes-2019

Are rural areas and farming communities being forgotten about in the heat decarbonisation debate? Neil Holland of the UK Pellet Council discusses…

“New legislation committing the UK to zero carbon emission targets by 2050 now means that the Government needs to find the most proven, sustainable and commercially-viable routes to achieving its objectives. The decarbonisation of heat, in particular, in rural and farming areas, needs a clear, effective strategy so that those living, working and operating businesses in off-gas grid communities aren’t left behind their urban counterparts.

 “With support and investment, biomass could massively uplift the rural economy and create new jobs across all areas including farming, agriculture and forestry. It’s everything from effective woodland management, encouraging sustained year-long work for agricultural contractors; farming through the summer months and increased trade during the winter (heating) season, and farm businesses being able to rival international competition with lower energy costs.

“At the moment, less than half of the UK’s forestry is managed and that’s partly due to a perceived low value. However, by demonstrating a clear need for wood for biomass – only using the low value tree parts – we have a very strong argument that would create a highly sustainable rural economy, good employment opportunities and business growth in sectors like farming, better woodland management and ultimately, contribute to 2050 carbon reduction targets. We can develop a workable circular economy for the UK’s rural sectors which stems from the fact that a boiler needs biomass fuel for approximately 20 years.

“The ‘Biomass Heat Works!’ campaign is asking farming communities as well as residents, businesses and anyone living in rural areas to get on board and support our call to action.More often than not, it is also the lowest carbon option available to rural homes and businesses, particularly farms who have been early adopters of the technology. 

 “We could see consumer demand increase from 5.5% in 2020 to 15% in 2032* and create over 100,000 jobs in predominantly rural areas, so we’re calling for biomass heating to be at the centre of the Government’s rural economic and energy initiatives moving forward.

“Also, in the context of a climate emergency, ministers cannot afford to rely on as yet unproven technologies which are years away from commercialisation. Biomass is a well-established energy resource in the UK and whilst we aren’t clear as to future decarbonisation strategies, now is the time to deliver a positive and targeted campaign and call for biomass to be recognised.”

“Many leading European countries have seen huge success supporting their biomass industries. We, as a fast-growing sector with a well-established supply chain serving rural areas, need the same from our own Government. That’s why the UK Pellet Council and Wood Heat Association are calling on ministers to take heed of recent reports and recognise biomass as the most fit-for-purpose solution to deliver rural heat decarbonisation when the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) ends in 2021.”