Fortum calls for clear EU biomass sustainability criteria

In Finland, Fortum suggests clear EU-level sustainability criteria for biomass and a transition to a market-driven system must replace complex subsidy systems. The uncertainty regarding biomass-related regulatory policy has increased in the EU, which adds instability to the biomass markets and reduces the investment willingness. The biggest policy risks impacting bioenergy are related to sustainability principles and financial subsidies.

Fortum is of the opinion that EU-level sustainability criteria are needed for solid biomass, criteria that are applicable to all bioenergy, regardless of its end use. The use of biomass for energy should be on equal footing with other usage forms. The resource efficiency of biomass could be one of the sustainability criteria.