Sponsored by:September 20101

Developing the Market for WoodfuelKeith Richards

TV Energy

Sponsored by:September 20102

What have we learnt?

• Use of wood fuel Popular in many ‘developed’ countries (e.g. Austria and Finland).Yet implementation is relatively slow in the UK ?Issues of existing infrastructure, historical practice, culture and

expectations all have an impact.

• Seeing is believing ……

Sponsored by:

Austrian Study Tour Delegates

Buyers in St Margarethen

Sellers in Kirchberg

Sponsored by:September 20104

Problems solved?

• Technology Excellent examples of small, medium and large scale systems for

heat production. Sufficient to dispel most ‘technofear’. Not enough UK examples (particularly District Heating) but this

is changing rapidly.

• Fuel SupplyThe region can show well developed examples of fuel supply. Supply can be supplemented by energy crops (e.g. SRC),

although this needs addressing strategically. Ultimately, wood is traded internationally as a commodity.

• Environment / Quality of LifePositive gains of bringing woodland back into management,

increasing biodiversity, tackling climate change….

Sponsored by:September 20105

Will it pay?

• Economics Many schemes are competitive now but …….

• Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI)Should come in next April and will provide financial incentives to

kick start the wood heat market (c.f. FIT for PV). Up to 9p/kWh currently proposed for small biomass (<45kW),

6.5p/kWh for medium (45-500kW) and large (1.6-2.5p/kWh).Small and medium scale will be deemed, large metered.

www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/consultations/rhi/rhi.aspx

• Socio-Economics Provides new jobs, retains employment in rural areas, helps

create wealth and reduces ‘fiscal leakage’ (e.g. by buying in fuels from overseas).

Also provides training opportunities for career changes, creates new businesses/ diversification opportunities.

Sponsored by:September 20106

Mainstreaming

• Address Market Needs Supply should focus on satisfying the demand for fuel in terms of

quality, quantity and type.

• Seek Best Practice Not just in technology but by working together as an industry,

we can share information to allow the wood fuel market to mature in the interests of everyone.

• Build into Targets & Visions (LAs)Under the new agenda of ‘Big Society’, wood fuel can provide a

strong theme in local frameworks and development plans;Also empowers local groups – important feature in ‘Big Society’

thinking.

Sponsored by:

A grate solution

www.woodheatsolutions.eu