As the energy crisis in the UK continues to grow, Government funding aims to provide new biomass options for energy - including hemp production.
A £26-million initiative has been launched to increase the UK's production of sustainable biomass. This funding will support the development of new solutions including hemp as a main option.
The UK aims to reach net-zero carbon by 2050 which leaves the Government with some steep targets.
As a result of the energy crisis, the biomass market is set to rise dramatically; the International Energy Agency predicts is could increase by as much as 28% by 2026. However, as a renewable energy source, biomass is quickly becoming a key focus for the Climate Change Committee.
Projects chosen for the £26-million funding will aid in driving biomass and renewable alternatives to the UK, via the planting and cultivating of organic matter; including hemp. Each bid will apply for up to £4-million and 25 projects have already been selected to go ahead.
Energy and climate change minister Greg Hands said:
“Developing greener fuels like biomass is key to helping the UK slash carbon emissions and drive down costs for consumers. This £26 million government investment will support innovators across the UK, boosting jobs and investment, and help ensure we have the homegrown supply we need to support our plans to build back greener and tackle climate change.”
Since July 2021, roughly 2.5 million homes in the UK are experiencing fuel poverty, with the number only set to rise unless something changes quickly.
Maple Tree Director Will de Peyer said,
“The energy crisis in the UK right now is a complex issue - one which will not be resolved quickly. However, it is important to understand the funding being provided by the Government to find an alternative resource. The inclusion of Hemp as a potential solution is a very positive step forward.
“It will be interesting to see how the funding unfolds throughout 2022 and whether or not hemp cultivation will be considered as a real renewable energy resource in the future.”