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REA responds to RO decision for biomass

18/12/2012

 

The REA has helped secure a big win for the biomass power industry today as DECC has decided against a supplier cap for biomass power [1]. Instead, Ofgem will monitor likely deployment levels up to 400MW. If this level is exceeded, DECC will consider launching a new consultation on restricting further deployment.

 

The REA also welcomes the decision that combined heat and power (CHP) projects will be permanently excluded from this monitoring process from the point of certification under the Combined Heat and Power Quality Assurance (CHPQA) programme.

 

REA Chief Executive Gaynor Hartnell comments:

 

“REA has been listened to on the proposed cap on new biomass projects. Instead of implementing legislation that would have stopped investment in its tracks, DECC is taking more of a ‘wait and see’ approach, with the option of consulting if deployment exceeds 400MW. Today’s decision recognises the substantial contribution that these projects can make to delivering cost effective carbon savings and steady baseload output.”

 

ENDS

 

For further information or to request an interview, please contact:

 

REA Press Office: +44 (0)20 7981 0856, or: 

 

Name: Paul Thompson 

Title: Head of Policy, REA 

Tel: 07980 264 580

 

Notes to Editors

 

  • The Renewable Energy Association represents renewable energy producers and promotes the use of all forms of renewable energy in the UK across power, heat, transport and renewable gas. It is the largest renewable trade association in the UK, with over 900 members, ranging from major multinationals to sole traders. For more information, see: www.r-e-a.net

 

  1. DECC: ‘Consultation on proposals to ensure sustainability and affordability for the use of biomass under the Renewables Obligation (RO)’, 18th December 2012. Available at: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/consultations/biomass_ro/biomass_ro.aspx