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Clifford Chance

Clifford Chance

Briefings

Regulatory Issues in UK Biomass projects

2 March 2012

Biomass is set to be one of 2012's hot topics in energy infrastructure. As many jurisdictions aim to increase their use of renewable energy but are faced with a standing stock of thermal plants, developing a diverse mix of energy sources will underpin security of supply. With resistance from lenders to fully embracing the wind market and with wave and tidal technologies still being in their infancy, biomass is sure to provide a big part of the solution over the coming years and in the longer term. Consequently many developers are taking a renewed interest in biomass projects which, contrary to conventional wisdom, may prove one of the most economical of all renewables technologies. Currently, projects in Europe being considered include new build dedicated biomass plants (with or without combined heat and power), conversion of existing coal plants and co-firing in existing coal plants.

This briefing, together with our separate briefings on "Construction Issues in Biomass Projects" and "Fuel Supply and Sustainability Issues in Biomass Projects", considers some of the key issues faced by stakeholders in developing biomass projects.

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