Scottish Biomass Support Scheme

The Scottish Biomass Support Scheme was launched in 2006, with GBP 7.5 million in funding over the financial years 2006-07 and 2007-08. The capital grant scheme is applicable to all formally constituted organisations in Scotland, both public and private, of varying sizes (micro-enterprises and SMEs).

Barring exceptional circumstances, the maximum capital grant allowed is GBP 400 000.

Funding is provided for two types of applications: Installations (including eligible kit/pipe work and boiler plant) and infrastructure directly related to developing the woodfuel/biomass supply chain (including combined heat and power installations).

For installation, 40% of additional costs (50% for SMEs) compared with conventional system are eligible under the scheme. For supply side, this covers up to 40% of additional costs of entering the biomass supply chain, depending on circumstances and activity.

Initial funding under the Biomass Support Scheme was disbursed by March 2008. In September 2008 the Scottish government announced GBP 2 million of new funding for the scheme.