
Denmark tightens biomass usage requirements
A broad majority in the Danish Parliament agrees to further tighten requirements for using biomass for electricity and district heating, following changes to a EU directive. Old forest and heathland areas are now added to the no-go zones. The measures aim to minimize climate and biodiversity impacts, as emphasized by the Danish Climate, Energy, and Supply Minister Lars Aagaard. Biomass from forests can now only be sourced from residues not fit for building materials, with some dead trees left to support beetles and fungi. Companies must provide evidence of systems to recycle biomass, and the thresholds for allowable import and sustainable practices for businesses have been adjusted. ‘Green Power Denmark’ stresses the importance of these stricter requirements to ensure biomass comes from sustainably managed forests. Biomass is seen as a stop-gap fuel, but despite criticism and a transitioning to electrified solutions, it remains integral to Denmark’s green energy strategy.