Why Biomass?

Biomass is an attractive energy source for a number of reasons. First, it is a renewable energy source generated both through natural processes or as a byproduct of human activity. It is also more evenly distributed over the earth's surface than fossil fuel energy sources, and may be harnessed using more cost effective technologies. It provides us the opportunity to be more energy self-sufficient and helps to reduce climate change (global warming). And lastly, it helps U.S. farmers, ranchers and foresters better manage waste material, providing rural job opportunities and stimulating new economic opportunities.

Prior to the industrial revolution, biomass satisfied nearly all of man's energy demands. Up until the 1860s, the U.S. used biomass, in the form of wood, for nearly 91% of all energy consumption. In 1992 biomass generated $1.8 billion in personal and corporate income and employed 66,000 workers. Although presently the majority of humankind's energy requirements are fulfilled by fossil fuel combustion, 14% of the world still utilizes biomass. In a recent DOE study, a full 73% of all energy consumed by US manufacturing was through boilers and burners which are principally fueled by natural gas or fuel oil, but highly adaptable to solid fuel usage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be eligible to receive the tariff if I move into a home that already has an electricity generating technology?

FIT eligibility remains with the installation, even if the ownership of the home or generating technology changes. Therefore the technology must have been eligible before you move in, even if it is not registered yet.

What happens if I move home?

Ownership of the technology is linked to the site and, therefore, in the case where a building or homeownership changes, the ownership of the technology would also transfer to the new owner.

I rent my property. If my landlord installs an electricity generating technology, who would receive the FITs?

It will be up to landlords and tenants of domestic or commercial property to come to an arrangement about the receipt of payments and on-site electricity use benefits.

Will I need a special meter to be able to claim FITs?

Generation must be metered and FITs payments are made to generators on the basis of metered generation. Meters will need to be able to measure generation, usage and import. However, as an interim measure, DECC has announced that at the very small scale, the amount of exports for the payment of export tariffs can be deemed (estimated), subject to the following:

• These arrangements will only apply until the finalising of specifications for smart meters;
• These arrangements do not apply if export meters exist already, or are provided at the generator's expense

My system is not connected to the electricity grid – can I still claim the Feed-in Tariff?
Yes you will be eligible to receive a generation tariff at the tariff rate that is applicable for the type and capacity of the generating technology. You will also have to sign a declaration stating that all of the electricity generated on site will be used and not wasted.