Thank you for contacting me about reducing carbon emissions.
I am pleased that work is already underway to help us achieve net zero by 2050. For example, the Prime Minister announced that the UK will be the world leader in offshore wind following £160 additional investment and more ambitious targets. This includes boosting a previous target to deliver up to 30GW of offshore wind to delivering 40GW by 2030.
You mention the Renewables Obligation (RO) as a subsidy for burning biofuels. The RO scheme and the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme support the generation of renewable electricity. The RO does not pay a direct subsidy, instead support is through tradeable renewable electricity certificates. In addition, the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme supports renewable heat technologies.
As part of the CfD scheme, and in response to the previous consultation, the Government intends to require all dedicated biomass with combined heat and power (CHP), and energy from waste with CHP, schemes applying for new support contracts to have a minimum overall efficiency of 70 per cent (net calorific value).
I remain committed to ensuring that we build back greener and more resilient as we recover from Covid-19.