The Sustainable Biomass Program (SBP) has announced that the British energy regulator, Ofgem, has completed an assessment of the revised SBP Standards (v2.0).
Ofgem concluded they align with the Land Criteria set out in the legislative framework of the following schemes: Renewables Obligation; Non-Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive; Feed-in Tariffs; Smart Export Guarantee; Green Gas Support Scheme.
Following a comprehensive review and revision process, the revised SBP Standards (v2.0) became effective in August last year.
The revised Standards underpin the SBP promise of good biomass and go beyond legislative requirements, according to the organisation.
In their entirety, they require that SBP-certified biomass is deforestation-free, and that biodiversity is maintained or enhanced through protecting key species, habitats and ecosystems.
They further require that water quality and soil quality are maintained or enhanced, that carbon stocks are stable or increasing, and that workers and their rights, local communities, and the rights of Indigenous Peoples are protected.
"Our revised Standards also mandate compliance with the EU REDII requirements. Certificate Holders have until November 2025 to transition to the revised requirements," said SBP.
Ofgem concludes assessment of Sustainable Biomass Program Standards
