• The REA is delighted that the consultation into a transitional support mechanism for large-scale biomass electricity generators has launched today.
• Power bioenergy carbon capture and storage (Power BECCS) has the potential to deliver a significant volume of carbon removals that is critical to our net zero ambitions.
• Government will need to consider how to ensure similar arrangements are brought forward for bioenergy generators at all sizes.
• The proposed transitional arrangements will also support the UK’s energy security.

The REA (Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology) has welcomed today’s news that Government will launch a consultation into transitional support mechanism for large-scale biomass electricity generators.

Government is seeking views on the transitional support arrangements in principle, and how any such potential support might be designed, and have published an impact assessment alongside the consultation.

BECCS is a critical technology for meeting our Net Zero targets, and the UK’s biomass power sector is exceptionally placed to deliver BECCS at scale.

Frank Gordon, Director of Policy at the REA (Association for Renewable Energy and Clean Technology) said:

“We welcome today’s consultation on transitional arrangements for large-scale biomass generators. The UK’s biomass power sector is exceptionally placed to deliver BECCS at scale, while also being regulated through existing stringent sustainability governance arrangements. The technology for BECCS is ready to go at a wide range of scales but, like all infrastructure projects, it takes time to secure final investment decisions and be built. Ensuring that these existing low carbon generation stations have a clear market signal beyond 2027 is essential for the timely and cost-effective delivery of BECCS, a critical technology for meeting our Net Zero targets. Given this importance, Government will need to consider how to ensure similar arrangements are brought forward for bioenergy generators at all sizes who also provide low carbon power and important environmental services. This will provide confidence to the market and will deliver real returns, including reducing the cost of investment, help build supply chains, deliver thousands of jobs, and further extend the UK’s world leading expertise.”