The CLA calls for equal ‘Feed-in Tariff’ rates to cover electricity produced by anaerobic digestion

The CLA today (4 February 2010) responded to the Government's newly announced Feed-in Tariff (FIT) rates for renewable electricity.

The rural economy experts called for the Department of Energy and Climate Change (DECC) to equate rates for farm-based anaerobic digesters with those for energy generated by wind or solar power.

The CLA says anaerobic digestion not only produces renewable power and heat but also reduces the level of on-farm emissions and displaces expensive fossil-fuel fertiliser, benefiting land managers and the environment.

The Association is asking DECC to reconsider the FIT rates for small-scale electricity generation from farm-based plants.

CLA President William Worsley said: "We are encouraged by the Feed-in Tariff announcement which will allow our members to help reduce their carbon emissions from farming.

"However, the rates proposed for farm-based digesters is far below those offered for wind turbines or solar panels, and wholly insufficient to warrant landowner investment in greenhouse gas-friendly technology."

Oliver Harwood FRICS – Chief Surveyor

Responsible for national land use policy issues, and lead author of the draft renewable energy policy. Also provides advice to members on land use issues, including farming, alternative enterprise, minerals and wayleaves and easements.

Phone: 020 7460 7940
FAX: 020 7235 4696
Email oliver.harwood@cla.org.uk