The WRA has expressed its disappointment after the Government this week confirmed it does not intend to introduce successor support for small scale biomass generators – including biomass plants powered by waste wood – as existing Renewables Obligation accreditation period begin to expire from April 2027.
Richard Coulson, Biomass Lead on the WRA Board, said: “We are deeply disappointed by this decision and do not believe the government has considered the full consequences of this approach. The UK’s waste wood biomass plants make an invaluable contribution across energy security and net zero while also delivering a vital environmental service, providing a domestic outlet for millions of tonnes of waste wood per year.
“Without support for these facilities, material will have to be exported or sent to landfill or worse – could end up being dumped or sent to illegal waste sites.
“Our fundamental concern is that Government is looking at biomass primarily through an energy-policy lens rather than considering its interconnected role across energy, waste and resources. The contribution of these plants cannot simply be measured in Megawatts.
“Government needs to consider the material these sites currently process, available alternative treatment capacity, the cost and environmental impact of alternative routes, implications for the management of local authority and construction & demolition waste, and the wider economic consequences.
“We therefore call on the Government for an urgent re-evaluation.”