Farming

Bio-energy Infrastructure Scheme

Bio-energy Infrastructure Scheme, Round 2

A new round of the Bio-energy Infrastructure Scheme was launched on 6 June 2008.

Purpose of the scheme

The Scheme provides grants to help the development of the supply chain required to harvest, process, store and supply biomass to heat, combined heat and power, and electricity end-users.

Geographical coverage

Projects must be based in England.

Who can apply?

The scheme is open to farmers, foresters, businesses, local authorities and charities. 

Grants available

Grants are available for:

  • growers to set up producer groups to supply biomass to energy end-users.  Eligible costs include legal and administrative work in setting up the group, rental of office accommodation, purchase or rental of IT and office equipment etc.
  • producer groups and businesses to:

— purchase or rent specialist capital equipment for use in harvesting, pre-use processing, quality assurance and handling,
— purchase or rent storage and hard-standing.
—  receive training in issues directly relevant to the successful operation of the supply chain.

Each project can claim grant of up to £200,000. 

Eligible biomass
  • Short rotation coppice (willow, poplar, alder, ash, hazel, lime, silver birch, sweet chestnut and sycamore)
  • Miscanthus
  • Switch grass, reed canary grass, prairie cord grass, rye grass
  • Straw
  • Woodfuel from forestry, arboricultural tree management and primary processing
  • Other energy crops at Defra’s discretion

Deadline for applications

The deadline for receipt of applications is:

  • Noon, 5 August 2008 for applications from businesses; and
  • Noon, 5 September 2008 for applications from producer groups.

The longer application window for producer groups reflects the time needed to obtain agreement from interested parties to submit an application.

How do I obtain full details of the scheme?

The detailed Scheme rules and eligibility criteria are set out in the guidance booklet.

The scheme is administered on Defra's behalf by TUV NEL Ltd.  For information about how to apply and for all other enquiries, please contact the Bio-energy Infrastructure Scheme Helpline:

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Page last modified: 10 June 2008

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs