Economy Minister today launched a Call for
Evidence to explore the potential use of biofuels as an
alternative to home heating oil and fossil-based LPG.
Biofuels, specifically Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO) and
Bio-Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Bio-LPG), can be used as an
alternative heat source to fossil fuels. Industry research and
analysis indicates biofuels are the most likely renewable heat
alternative for homes and businesses that cannot be heated by
heat pumps, the gas grid or heating networks.
Minister Murphy said: “Moving away from fossil fuels is
vital in the transition towards net zero. Over half of our homes
and businesses are reliant on heating oil. This heavy reliance on
fossil fuels not only creates carbon emissions but leaves us
vulnerable to global price rises. The need to source local,
secure and sustainable heating alternatives is pressing.
“This Call for Evidence will help the Department assess
the potential role biofuels can play in decarbonising our heat,
identify challenges and opportunities, and the potential costs
involved. The Department is particularly interested in how
biofuels can complement other low-carbon heating
solutions.”
Turning to net zero targets, the Minister said: “We must
deliver on the Energy Strategy's commitment to replace high
carbon heat sources with low, and zero carbon alternatives.
Technologies like heat pumps are vital for the long-term
decarbonisation of heat, however upgrade works can be costly for
some homes and businesses. Biofuels can offer an important
transitionary option, one which is secure, affordable and
sustainable. The development of the biofuels sector can also
boost the local green economy through the creation of highly
skilled jobs and contributing to increased
productivity.”
In conclusion, the Minister said: “Co-design and
collaboration are pivotal to the drafting of effective policy,
and I would encourage consumers, industry, academia and other
interested parties to contribute to this Call for
Evidence.”
Notes to editors:
1. The Call for Evidence is available at Citizen Space and will
remain open for 12 weeks until 23:59 on Tuesday 4 March 2025.
