Bioenergy - draft policy statement: consultation

Ministerial Foreword

With the impacts of climate change becoming ever more acute, it is essential that we meet our ambitious target to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2045. This draft Bioenergy Policy Statement sets out the role we see bioenergy playing in Scotland’s journey to net zero.

Bioenergy is already a key component of our energy system and contributes to a more circular economy, by turning wastes into valuable resources which can be used for electricity and heat production or to displace fossil fuels in our gas network and transport systems.

Bioenergy has huge potential to reduce emissions across our economy when used with carbon capture and storage technology, which can permanently remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. Realising this potential can help to deliver a just transition for our energy sector, and through developing a thriving and homegrown market for domestic production of bioenergy feedstock, can provide opportunities for rural communities.

Sustainability of this supply chain and protection of our natural environment are of critical importance. We must ensure that stringent controls are in place as we seek solutions to the twin nature and climate crises.

This draft policy statement was developed though a cross-sectoral approach. It has been driven forward by a Bioenergy Policy Working Group which brings together officials from across government. We have carefully taken on board advice and contributions received from the Climate Change Committee and wider stakeholders, and this policy statement builds on our previous Bioenergy Update published in March 2021.

The Scottish Government is committed to reducing emissions, reducing inequalities and protecting our environment whilst developing a competitive and innovative wellbeing economy. We are now seeking your views on the policy direction, priorities and opportunities which would help the bioenergy sector in Scotland deliver on these objectives.

It is our ambition that this Bioenergy Policy Statement will support the realisation of economic opportunities in pursuit of a just transition, reduce our reliance on global imports, help provide security of energy supply, and further develop a stable and sustainable part of Scotland’s green economy.

Gillian Martin MSP, Minister for Energy, Just Transition and Fair Work