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BIFF June Update

Wood or Oil Heating?

This is the question that many have already asked themselves when it comes to deciding whether to opt for installing a wood-fuelled heating system rather than the previous automatic choice of oil.  Faced with oil prices rising on a weekly (or daily) basis we should be considering whether or not oil is still competitive and affordable.  For many the choice is a simple equation between installation costs and the price of buying oil or wood products (Pellets, Chips or Logs) to run the system, combined with an opinion of how future prices will develop.

With current heating oil prices the cost of heat is around 7-8 pence per kilowatt-hour compared to woodchips, which are around 2-3 pence.  In most situations, oil would still be the preferred choice mainly due to its perceived convenience, but obviously this is rapidly changing.

For farmers and landowners the choice can be a lot more complex.  A major factor is the abundance of wood around the farm, which can often be of low value.  This could therefore be utilised in a woodfuel system and cut costs significantly.  Log systems are particularly low input in terms of capital costs, however they are less automated than chips or pellets and require more labour input for loading (usually once a day).  This however could still suit many farm situations.  

Capital Cost of Woodfuel Systems

Another critical factor is the capital costs of woodfuel systems.  Because the technology is fairly new (even though man has been burning wood since life began!) it tends to be expensive compared to oil and this therefore puts many people out of the equation. 

However with the new Scottish Rural Development Programmes’ Rural Priorities it is possible to apply for funding for the capital costs.  It is also very attractive at 50% of costs and 60% of costs for young farmers up to 40yrs of age.  This is very encouraging and a big step in the right direction.  This should encourage many to produce their own renewable energy from their own sustainable source, which can surely only be a good thing and makes simple practical sense. 

The government’s woodfuel website is www.usewoodfuel.co.uk and for SRDP go to www.scotland.gov.uk/srdp

 Don’t forget the Farm Woodland Forum meetings from 24-26 June being held at Castle Menzies.  The days will be covering a wide range of topics with field trips to various sites.  For further info or to book your place, go to www.agroforestry.ac.uk or contact myself on 07810 814370 or greg.thexton@forestry.gsi.gov.uk