News

The European Union have now confirmed that the rate of grant offered to farmers to grow biomass crops (Miscanthus and Short Rotation Coppice) under the Energy Crop Scheme has been increased to 50% (from 40%), for all costs incurred after the 1st January 2010. 

The ECS is administered by Natural England on behalf of the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC). The scheme pays grants to land owners for the establishment of biomass crops such as Miscanthus (a woody grass) and short rotation coppice, primarily willow. Growers can claim the costs of establishing the crop, providing the crop is retained for at least five years and is used to produce power and/or heat.

Among the costs covered by the scheme are cultivation and ground preparation, plants and planting. The minimum area that can be planted under any scheme is three hectares. Any applications made in 2009 but where costs have not yet been incurred will be eligible for the higher rate of grant.

All applications are assessed to ensure that the crop will not damage important archaeological or wildlife features and will not interfere with power lines or public rights of way. Growers are encouraged to submit applications early in the year prior to planting to allow adequate time for consideration.

The objective of the ECS is to increase the amount of energy crops grown in England, in appropriate locations. Energy crops are used as a substitute for fossil fuels in power stations, combined heat and power units and biomass heat boilers.

Full details of the scheme, including the Handbook and Application form are available on the Natural England website:

Terms & conditions | Privacy policy | Accessibility policy | Site map | Contact us