Native forest biomass – have your say

The Australian Government is consulting the public on potential amendments to the eligibility of electricity generated from native forest biomass in the Renewable Energy Target (RET).

Stakeholders have expressed long-standing concerns regarding the eligibility of electricity generated from native forest biomass for support through the RET.

The government has agreed to consult on potential regulatory amendments to address concerns while not undermining sustainable native forest industries and limiting any impact on existing projects.

Submissions should consider whether the eligibility for native forest wood waste should be removed or remain in place.

If it is to remain, submissions should consider whether the existing arrangements are effective in achieving the objectives of the Renewable Energy (Electricity) Act 2000, and any relevant options for regulatory amendments that would help to better deliver on these objectives and support public confidence in the scheme.

Any proposed amendments to the operation of the RET should limit their impact on existing projects that have invested and acted in good faith in accordance with existing arrangements. Proposed amendments should be proportionate to relevant costs, benefits, risks and opportunities.

The consultation paper is available for stakeholders to consider their submissions.

Please respond to the questions in the paper through written submissions. Submissions are welcome until 21 October 2022.