WHA calls for definitive guidance on the use of waste wood for biomass heat

Over the last 3-4 years the use of waste wood in biomass systems accredited under the RHI has grown in popularity. However, the guidance for correctly adhering to the rules is confusing and easy to misinterpret. There are guidance documents for both boilers and fuels available from the Environment Agency, Local Authorities, Ofgem and the Biomass Suppliers List (BSL). Unfortunately, some of these documents seem to offer conflicting information and as a result installers and users can easily find themselves treading a fine line between compliance and breaking the law.

The Wood Heat Association has been calling for clarity on the rules relating to waste wood for over three years. As a result of this lobbying, the Environment Agency released a Regulatory Position Statement on waste wood in November 2017. The RPS is relevant to anyone who produces, transports, stores, processes, trades, uses (including burning it in boiler) or disposes of waste wood.

In summary, for the purposes of RHI funded boilers the RPS states that only clean, untreated pre-consumer waste wood can be legitimately used in non-WID (Waste Incineration Directive ) boilers.

Many biomass companies have published their own interpretations of the refined rules. However, these are just that – interpretations. There is still no definitive and integrated guidance on the use of waste wood for RHI participants available from Ofgem or the BSL. We strongly urge BEIS, the Government department responsible for the RHI to facilitate such a publication as soon as possible.