Sustainable Energy Generation: Burning Trees
Debate between Selaine Saxby and James GrayWestminster Hall is an alternative Chamber for MPs to hold debates, named after the adjoining Westminster Hall.
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Selaine Saxby
I agree that that is part of the confusion in the entire strategy; we need urgent clarification. In AR4, dedicated biomass with combined heat and power were eligible to compete, although no contracts were awarded. The announcement of AR5, which starts in March 2023, has not come with any clarity on whether biomass will be eligible for that round.
The Government have done great work as we transition to net zero by 2050, but further investment in biomass is clearly the wrong strategy. It not only continues to contribute carbon to our atmosphere when we can now invest in significantly cleaner energy, but takes away from flourishing British businesses and exports our problems overseas. When the biomass strategy is released, I hope that the mounting evidence will be considered and that we can continue to increase investment in more sustainable energy sources rather than pursuing this path.
James Gray (in the Chair)
I am advised that the fire alarm that may have to occur does not affect Westminster Hall, and our debate can therefore continue as planned.