This study investigated the potential for electricity generation using agricultural residues and/or a purpose grown energy crop (coppice willow, poplar or Miscanthus) from or grown by a farmer co-operative. This followed the ban on stubble burning, providing a potential resource of around 100,000 tons of wheat straw per annum. Estimates were made of the size of potential electricity generating facilities based on conventional combustion and steam turbine technology. Power generating capacity and economics were modelled, including consideration of the impact of subsidies, support measures, the non-fossil fuel obligation and set-aside. The environmental and social benefits of reducing fossil fuel consumption were considered together with opportunities to collaborate with other interested parties (waste handlers and power generators). The content of the study included:

Fuel supply

Straw

Energy crops

Coppice

Arable crops

Baling, transport and storage
Generating options
Costs

Fuel costs

Power plant costs

Income
Competing markets for straw
Inputs and by-products
Legislation
Funding