These were presented to a number of companies newly certified under the Wood Fuel Quality Assurance Scheme (WQAS), which is run by the Irish Bioenergy Association (IrBEA).

“The use of forest-based fuels for energy production and heat continues to grow — and now accounts for over one million cubic metres annually — over one third of the total wood harvest,” he said. “We estimate that in 2012 the firewood market alone was worth over €33m, with a lot of the supply coming from the first thinning of farmer-owned forest plantations.” He said it is important that wood fuels that come on the market are fit for purpose and are well prepared and presented. “The WQAS is geared to support companies to meet these requirements, which is why my Department continues to provide grant aid to support its work,” he said.

“Over the past year, we have worked hard to increase the scheme’s membership and its public profile,” said Pat Murphy, chairperson, WFQA.

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“I am particularly glad that the largest wood pellet manufacturer in Ireland, Balcas Limited, has been certified to join the scheme, and will be supplying their fuel with the WFQA logo,” she said. “We are also in the process of certifying some of the firewood suppliers to the large multiples.”