THE UK has pledged up to £10m for a scheme to develop innovative bioenergy projects. It is one of eight EU countries working in partnership to help stimulate millions of pounds worth of further private investment in the technology.
Bioenergy is now widely regarded as one of the most versatile forms of low carbon and renewable generation and development of the supply chain will support growth and jobs in the UK economy and abroad.
The scheme, worth around 47m Euros of public money, will stimulate up to 100m Euros worth of bioenergy innovation projects in the UK, Finland, Sweden, Germany, Spain, Denmark, Switzerland and Portugal.
Energy minister John Hayes said: “Bioenergy has an important role to play in our energy mix, helping cut carbon as well as support jobs and spur on economic growth on a national and international scale.
“Britain has been the global engine room of innovation for centuries. I want to see that rich tradition continue in the energy sector. This scheme will help businesses develop a range of different innovative projects by combining public and private sector investment to make the most of this exciting technology.”
The Department of Energy and Climate Change, the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and the Technology Strategy Board will all play vital roles for the UK with contributions totalling up to £10m over the next 2-3 years.
Organisations have been invited to put forward proposals for innovative projects and grants are expected to be made in early 2014.
