On February 10th, the British government extended billions in subsidies for Drax. Drax is the largest wood pellet biomass electricity burner in the world. Much of the wood that Drax burns in its power station comes from the Southern United States. That funding extension is for four more years. Our forests, communities, and climate will continue to suffer.
The government extended subsidies that were set to end in 2027. Now they won’t end until 2031. The government made this decision because they do not have a Plan B for meeting power needs. Drax will take in almost $500M per year for six years. All to burn our trees and harm our communities’ health and well-being.
The UK government has failed us
Adam Colette, Program Director at Dogwood Alliance, said:
“For a decade the British Government has forced ratepayers to fund forest and community destruction in the Southern US. The new Labour Government has failed us by continuing subsidies for Drax and the wood pellet industry. Now is not the time for false solutions. It is time for bold leadership.”
The UK government also failed to increase sustainability requirements or address emissions. They also failed to consider the climate impact of biomass. Drax can continue to destroy forests without interference. It can also continue to pollute communities and the climate without any consequences.
The silver lining
There are some positives, though. For the final four years of the contract, Drax must limit power generation to half its current level. Then Drax will need half as many wood pellets. There will be some relief to our forests and communities. The new government has a growing negative outlook on bioenergy.
The UK government isn’t completely sold on Bioenergy Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS). This could signal the end of this false green energy scheme.
Adam Colette said:
“The UK government’s announcement is disappointing. But it also marks the beginning of the end of bioenergy in the UK. We exposed the forest destruction and the negative health impacts of bioenergy. It forced the government to act. Without the courage of our communities and the strength of our network, bioenergy would continue unabated.”
The UK government has sided with forest destroyers. Logging, air pollution, and carbon emissions will continue. We will work with communities and partners to end this dirty industry. We want a just transition from extractive industries to a more regenerative economy. Forests and community well-being must be at the top of our priorities.