Biomass
Biomass is a material, other than fossil fuel or peat, which is derived directly or indirectly from plant matter, animal matter, fungi, algae or bacteria (and includes any such material contained in Waste which is termed biogenic material).
Biomass is a renewable energy source, generated from the burning of the above mentioned materials or household waste. It releases CO2 when burned but considerably less than fossil fuels. Biomass is considered to be a renewable source of energy if the plants or other organic materials being burned are replaced.[1]
The proportion of Biomass in Waste Derived Fuel is the basis for the Renewable Qualifying Multiplier [2].
The proportion of a waste feedstock that originates from biogenic material can be used to classify waste into difference classes as shown in the table below[3].
| Classification Property | Unit | Class 1 | Class 2 | Class 3 | Class 4 | Class 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Biomass Content (as received) | wt/wt% (mean) | >=90 | >=80 | >=60 | >=50 | <50 |
DESNEZ published their biomass strategy in August 2023 with the intention of ensuring sustainable biomass use across the economy[4]
Further details on the numbers and types of biomass plants operating throughout the UK are given on the Biomass Waste EFW page.
References
- ↑ Energy Savings Trust
- ↑ DEFRA 2018. Guidance Note for Advanced Conversion Technologies Compliance with the ACT Efficiency Standard criterion in the Contract for Difference scheme. London.
- ↑ WRAP, 2019. A Classification Scheme to Define the Quantity of Waste Derived Fuels. [online] Wrap.org.uk. [Accessed 1 Nov. 2019]
- ↑ https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/1177473/biomass-strategy-2023.pdf