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Bright future for biomass, says report

The Back Biomass campaign has welcomed an independent report recommending biomass as a cost-effective way to meet UK renewable energy targets.

The report, published by Deloitte, says that biomass could contribute up to 21 percent of all the electricity generated from renewable sources by 2020. Deloitte adds that biomass could easily surpass this figure through further conversion of coal-fired power stations, many of which are scheduled for closure by the end of 2015.

Securing new sources of generation capacity is vital with Ofgem predicting a reduction in spare capacity on the National Grid to just four percent in only three years time as fossil fuel plants reach the end of their lifespans.

Paul Thompson, head of policy at the Renewable Energy Association, said: “This report is extremely timely, with critical decisions to be taken by government over the next few months. Biomass power can make a strong contribution to energy security and carbon savings – and at an affordable costs. The report clearly details the role that biomass could play in meeting UK renewable energy targets and what needs to be done to ensure this potential is fulfilled.”