Highland Birchwoods

Scottish Biomass Heat Scheme - Final Call

07 June 2010

A final call has gone out to small-medium sized businesses across Scotland encouraging them to take advantage of Scottish Government funding that will help them make the switch to biomass heating.

But anyone interested had better apply soon because the popularity of the scheme means that only limited funds remain!

The Cabinet Secretary for the Environment & Rural Affairs announced the final call at a Low Carbon Economy Conference held in Dunblane on Wednesday 2 June.

The financial support – which is also available to develop district heating schemes – can be obtained from the Scottish Biomass Heat Scheme, administered by Forestry Commission Scotland, and must be for projects that can be completed by March 2011.

Rebecca Carr, for Forestry Commission Scotland, said:

“This is an ideal opportunity for organisations that would like to make the change to biomass but that have been put off because they’ve not been eligible for SRDP or CARES funding.

“It’s open to anyone in Scotland but we’re particularly keen to see more applications from the Highlands & Islands and from private developers for district heating schemes. They’ll be given priority.

“Anyone interested has until 30 September to apply – but judging from how well this has gone so far the funds may not last that long so you’d best get your applications in soon!”

Applicants should submit an initial enquiry form that outlines their project details, however for a project to be considered for fast-tracking to the full assessment stage, a full application must be submitted. Forms can be found at www.usewoodfuel.co.uk

Projects must clearly demonstrate that they can be complete by March 2011. Therefore projects which have a completed specification, planning permission, match finance in place and can demonstrate a secure fuel supply will be a priority for fast-tracking.

For more information contact the Scottish Biomass Heat Scheme team through www.usewoodfuel.co.uk or at 01349 860 919

The SBHS is funded by the Scottish Government, Forestry Commission Scotland and the European Regional Development Fund.