1. Why is biomass good for Utah?
2. Who is interested in biomass?
3. What are other states and the federal government doing to support biomass development?
   
4. How can Utah policy makers support increased biomass development in Utah?

1. Why is biomass good for Utah?
Biomass energy systems have varied benefits, depending on the technology and application:

Anaerobic Digestion Systems can provide farmers and ranchers with a viable means for reducing waste streams and generating on-site energy and/or fuels.

• Biomass projects can strengthen rural economies and in some cases provide additional income to farmers and ranchers.
• Biofuels can help reduce America's dependence on imported oil
• Depending on the application and technology, biomass projects may reduce air and water pollution and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
• Using Landfill Gas (LFG) helps to reduce odors and other hazards associated with LFG emissions, and it helps prevent methane from migrating into the atmosphere and contributing to local smog and global climate changes
• Reduced risks of destructive wildfires.

2. Who is interested in biomass?
Homeowners & Small Businesses - Utah citizens and businesses may be able to generate their own electricity or heat in their home or business. With the right incentives, biomass can help Utahns reduce energy costs and provide a reliable source of power at a fixed rate. Farmers, Ranchers, Rural Communities – Utah’s farmers, ranchers, and rural communities may have access to viable biomass energy resources; these projects have the potential to provide significant economic benefits.

3. What are other states and the federal government doing to support biomass development?
The federal government offers the following incentives for biomass:

• Business Energy Tax Credit
• Renewable Energy Production Tax Credit
• USDA Farm Bill Grants
• Funding Opportunities for Combined Heat & Power Projects

Several states are encouraging biomass development through a combination of:

• Incentives for biomass power development.
• Incentives for biomass industry facilities (i.e. manufacturing).
• Leadership from Governor and Legislature.
• Collaboration among state government, universities & colleges, and industry on education, R&D, and training.
• Utility incentives.

More on what other states are doing to support biomass development:

• 25 x 25 State Summary
• Department of Energy – Biomass Program State and Regional Resources
• Summary of State Biomass Policies and Incentives

4. How can Utah policy makers support increased biomass development in Utah?
Utah has a number of policies in place to support biomass energy development, along with other renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. Click here for a list of current Clean Energy Policies and Initiatives.

To increase biomass development in Utah, policy-makers should consider best practices in other states and look at adopting effective biomass-related policies, such as:

• Biomass Sales & Use Tax Exemption (Georgia)
• Biogas and Biomass to Energy Grant Program (Illinois)
• Biomass Energy Program (Assistance to Businesses) (Alabama)

Resources for local government and communities

Additional Resources & Tools for Policy Makers