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Support For South West Woodfuel
Industry launched

The Woodfuel support stage of the South West Bioheat Programme is being launched by Regen SW and Forest Fuels, with an upcoming programme of woodfuel information events, Ignite Training and company support.

Regen SW has awarded a contract to deliver these activities to Forest Fuels, who have already played a critical role in developing the south west woodfuel industry.  A programme of nine events will be running over six months - starting in September - which are designed for companies and individuals interested in woodfuel supply – including chip, pellet and energy crops. Forest Fuels plans to launch the Woodfuel Support activities at the South West Woodland Show 2007 at Exeter racecourse on September 14.

The Woodfuel support contract is part of the larger South West Bioheat Programme, an initiative funded by the South West RDA and the Forestry Commission, which will also deliver activities around creating demand for woodfuel systems and providing regional training courses. The contract alongside the other activities of the South West Bioheat Programme is designed to put the south west on the path to a self-sustaining woodfuel industry.

Anna Halcro Johnston, Biomass Project Manager for Regen SW said: “The south west is seeing a raft of strong biomass projects being developed and requires a robust, sustainable and flexible woodfuel supply chain to meet these needs. The experience and guidance that Forest Fuels can provide will allow new companies to take advantage of upcoming opportunities and help existing woodfuel businesses grow and improve their services.”

Commenting on the contract win, Sam Whatmore, Managing Director of Forest Fuels, said: “We were awarded the contract because we were able to clearly demonstrate our experience in the woodfuel sector and how we plan to develop a reliable woodfuel supply chain, in order to grow biomass heat and power in the south west.

“The region already has the highest number of biomass boilers in England and has access to extensive natural woodland resources. Regen SW recognise that the south west has the potential for huge growth in the biomass sector. Supporting the development of this industry will benefit the region’s economy and reduce its impact on the environment”.

“We are keen to hear from anyone who is seeking to develop their business in the woodfuel supply chain,” says Sam Whatmore. “We have the proven expertise and knowledge to assist companies wishing to expand. Woodfuel has the potential to be an important contributor to the south west economy and we view the next six months as a crucial stage in facilitating that growth.”

The Woodfuel Information Events have been designed to provide practical information on the expanding south west woodfuel industry and explain the opportunities and risks involved in the sector. The events will be of particular interest to companies involved in the woodfuel supply chain, including fuel producers, processors, suppliers and hauliers.

Topics to be covered will include the biomass industry from a regional and national perspective, and the current fuel market, to producing and processing. Transport and storage, fuel types, fuel standards, grants, further information and useful contacts will all be addressed. Ignite Training aims to provide the south west region with qualified trainers able to contribute directly in the activities of their own fuel supply companies or advising and supporting others in the sector.

Business Support Mentoring aims to encourage companies to become important members in the local woodfuel industry, thereby encouraging further opportunities for bioheat development.

For more information on any of the courses being offered visit the Forest Fuels stand at the South West Woodland Show or visit www.regensw.co.uk/bioheat to view the schedule and book on-line. Alternatively contact Janette Newell at Forest Fuels on 01409 281 977.

Ends

Press enquiries:

Gabriel Roberts/Rachael Whitson
Absolute PR and Marketing
Tel:  01392 680 740
Email:  [first name]@absolutprandmarketing.com

Sarah Forrow
Regen SW
Tel: 01392 474322
Email: sforrow@regensw.co.uk

Background information:

Forest Fuels

Sam Whatmore is managing director of Forest Fuels Ltd, the largest and most established wood fuel supply company in the South West.

Sam developed his expertise owning and operating a biomass heating system for five years and through extensive travel to Europe and North America to undertake research where the biomass industry is substantially more developed.

Forest Fuels now generates over 2,500 tonnes per annum of wood fuel supply from a
range of sources including forestry residues, sawmill waste and recycled material.

Sam Whatmore also operates a consultancy and advisory service called Woodfuel Solutions covering all aspects of wood fuel production, processing, handling, storage and delivery. Clients include the Eden Project, Bristol City Council, the MoD and a wide range of private individuals and estates.

Regen SW

• The core investment for the South West Bioheat programme has come from the South West of England Regional Development Agency (RDA) as part of its strategy to support the development of renewable energy projects in the region, in particular wave, tidal and biomass.  The Forestry Commission has also contributed to the programme with support and training for fuel suppliers.

• For further information contact Sarah Forrow on 01392 474322 or email sforrow@regensw.co.uk

• Regen SW, which receives its core funding from the South West of England Regional Development Agency (South West RDA), is the renewable energy agency for South West England