The importance of bioenergy at local level at the French Bioenergy Day 

On June 4th, the 4th edition of the French Bioenergy Day gathered in Paris policymakers, institutional representatives, journalists, stakeholders, and project leaders. The event focused on biomass circularity and its relevance for local communities. 

Throughout the 1-day conference, expert speakers from the fields of biomass, forest management, energy planning, and renewable energy highlighted how wood-energy solutions in France are linked to local practices and the sustainable use of available resources.  

Positive public initiatives supporting the defossilisation of heating such as the Fonds Chaleur (Heat Fund) are making it possible. The fund offers financial and technical CAPEX support for the production of renewable heat, based on the lowest public cost per tonnes of CO2 saved, quality of biomass source and quality of the project. Since 2009, the Fonds Chaleur has attracted numerous applicants, including municipalities and industries, for its ability to adapt to local peculiarities.  

“Although highly cost-effective, the Heat Fund currently has only €0.8 billion available, far short of the €1.4 billion in project demand, showing the high interest from various energy consumers.” Said Jean-Marc Jossart, Secretary-General of Bioenergy Europe.  “This funding gap poses serious challenges for the French Ecological Transition Agency. At present, priority is given to local projects that maximize impact and rely on sustainable resources like non-forest wood chips. But the potential goes far beyond what is currently funded.” 

Jean-Marc Jossart presented the latest developments in European Union policies on bioenergy. EU frameworks influence national strategies and create opportunities and challenges for local actors.