Biomass

The Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources (DOER) has released a draft proposed regulation to establish criteria that woody biomass facilities must meet under the Massachusetts Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard (RPS).

Biomass is derived from organic plant and animal material, such as wood, crops, landfill gas, solid waste, and alcohol fuels.

This clarification follows the announcement issued by DOER Commissioner Giudice on December 3, 2009, to suspend DOER review of Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) Statement of Qualification Applications for biomass generation units. Several questions have been raised about the scope of the announcement and its application. DOER issued this Q&A on December 22, 2009, to provide further clarity of its positions

The Department of Energy Resources hosted two public meetings on the Biomass Sustainability and Carbon Policy Study (Manomet Study), Carbon Accounting and Biomass/RPS Policy Directions in Boston and Holyoke in July 2010.

A team of experts were commissioned to conduct a study of issues related to biomass sustainability and carbon policy, to support DOER in its development of biomass energy policy. The Biomass Sustainability and Carbon Policy Study has been completed and is available for review.

A listing of stakeholders who submiited written comments on this topic.

Do the Northeast States' air emission regulations and safety certifications for residential and institutional-scale biomass boilers and furnaces pose a barrier to the creation of a viable northeast market for domestic and non-U.S. biomass heaters and boilers? If so, what strategic actions could be taken to reduce barriers and create a more attractive regional market for high performance biomass boilers, manufactured domestically or abroad? DOER, in coordination with the Northeast States, contracted the Coalition of Northeast Governors (CONEG) Policy Research Center, Inc. to develop a report that presents an objective analysis on these issues.

The Commonwealth seeks to prioritize existing commercial, residential and agricultural outdoor hydronic heaters (OHH), also known as outdoor wood boilers, which require replacement and provide replacement funding.

The Sustainable Forest Bioenergy Initiative will facilitate the development of biomass energy projects and fuel supply infrastructure in the Commonwealth.