New scheme offers £200,000 grant to suppliers of biomass fuel
Last updated 05:32, Friday, 27 June 2008
FARMERS, foresters and biomass producers can apply for up to £200,000 each under a new grant scheme.
The Bio-energy Infrastructure Scheme will help those who supply biomass fuel for the generation of heat and electricity.
Environment Minister Phil Woolas, who launched the scheme, said: “The fund will inject cash at the point of production. By investing in the biomass industry we are helping farmers, foresters and other producers to diversify and become part of the environmental industry sector which is currently worth more than £25bn and growing.”
Only producer groups or businesses based in England and supplying users in Britain will be eligible for the grants of up to £200,000.
The deadline for applications from businesses is August 5 2008 and from producer groups is September 5.
Phone the scheme helpline on 01355 593800 for more information or to request an application form or email help@beis.org.uk.
FARMERS are being asked by Defra to comment on proposed amendments to groundwater regulations.
Anyone who discharges substances which can cause groundwater pollution, or who currently follows the existing groundwater regulations, can comment on the changes.
Environment Minister Phil Woolas said: “It’s a priority for the proposed guidelines to be as simple, workable and cost-neutral as possible, all while safeguarding groundwater.
“While a slightly wider range of hazardous substances will be subject to controls, there will also be greater flexibility around these controls.”
The consultation paper is available at www.defra.gov.uk. The deadline is August 20.
