Written question WQ88396
- Asked by
- Darren MillarConservative
- To be answered by
- Minister for Climate Change
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 7 days
Question
What consideration has the Welsh Government given to promoting the use of renewable liquid gases such as bioLPG and renewable dimethyl ether (rDME) as an alternative technology for off-grid gas communities?
Answer
Answered by Minister for Climate Change
Our off-gas grid properties have the most carbon intensive traditional heating systems and it is essential to find viable solutions in order to meet our emissions reduction targets. Liquid gases produced from biological materials have their attractions, including a significant reduction in carbon emissions at point of use and compatibility with existing heating systems. BioLPG is currently being used as an alternative to fossil fuel LPG, usually as a blend, whereas renewable dimethyl ether (rDME) has yet to be commercialised.
The main issue with promoting the use of bioLPG and rDME is the availability of sustainable feedstocks, such as waste products. We have to be cautious as the supply of sustainable biofuels, such as biowastes, is limited domestically and globally. There is a serious risk that incentivising its use in heating oil will drive up costs due to competition with other sectors.
Our forthcoming Heat Strategy will provide details on our plans to decarbonise heating systems in Wales including for those currently off the gas grid.