NFU: Farming will play its part in renewable energy vision

The NFU vision for farmers to be energy producers has been strengthened with the publication of the Government’s draft Renewable Energy Strategy out today.

In welcoming the strategy the NFU called for a greater sense of urgency from Government in making renewable energy commitments both comprehensive and ambitious and reiterated its stance that farmers and growers are ready and able to help harness the UK’s substantial renewable energy sources.

Government proposals include the expansion of renewable electricity through off and on-shore wind power and a substantial increase in bioenergy production and utilisation including anaerobic digestion and biofuels.

“If ministers are serious, we need government not only to consult on its strategy but also to act, along with agencies, local planning authorities and industry”, said NFU Vice President Paul Temple.

“With 75 per cent of UK land currently being farmed, the industry is well placed to contribute to the country’s renewable energy needs while maintaining its role as a valued food producer.

“Every farmer should have the opportunity to become a net exporter of low-carbon energy and this strategy will help create opportunities for farmers and growers in terms of small on-farm generation as well as harnessing heat and power from anaerobic digester plants. These could be supported by a feed-in tariff, in addition to income from wind farms, and supply of a wide variety of biomass feedstock for heat, power and transport fuels.

“Renewable energy can offer opportunities for all land types, meaning agriculture can be part of a wide range of solutions for the nation’s renewable energy needs and, with sustained commitment and support, lead the way in the green energy revolution.”


Notes to editors:

1. For a link to the report click here

2. For on-farm cases studies of renewable energy production or interviews with the NFU chief renewable energy adviser Dr Jonathan Scurlock please contact the press office.

3. The NFU is one of a wide range of trade associations signed up to the Renewable Energy 2020 Manifesto that is co-ordinated by the Renewable Energy Association (REA) and the Royal Society of Arts.


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The NFU champions British farming and provides professional representation and services to its farmer and grower members.