A new industry body has been established to provide coordinated representation for the UK wood fuel and heating sector at a time of increasing focus on renewable heat, energy resilience and the future direction of UK heat policy.
The Wood Fuel and Heating Association (WFHA) brings together organisations from across the supply chain to support informed engagement within policy and regulatory discussions. It will also encourage collaboration, high standards and greater coordination across the industry, and aims to advocate the benefits of sustainable wood heating to the UK economy.
Biomass, including wood fuel, currently accounts for around 40% of renewable energy output in the UK and continues to play an important role in supporting renewable heat across homes, businesses and industry, while also positively contributing to forestry management and rural economies.
Despite the scale and importance of the sector, however, it has not previously benefited from a single body dedicated to representing its interests clearly, responsibly and with practical industry expertise, the WFHA said.
The board brings together longstanding operational experience and expertise spanning wood fuel supply, world-class appliance technology, installation, maintenance, forestry and wider sector delivery.
Chairman Terence McCracken said: “The wood fuel and heating sector already makes an important contribution to renewable heat in the UK, yet it has not always had clear or coordinated representation within wider policy discussions.
“At a time when conversations around energy policy, sustainability and long-term heat security are becoming increasingly important, it is vital that decisions are informed by practical operational experience and a proper understanding of the sector itself.
“WFHA has been established to help ensure the industry is represented clearly, responsibly and with informed expertise.”
WFHA will support informed discussion around renewable heat, encourage best practice across the sector and help strengthen long-term confidence in sustainable wood fuel.