About short rotation coppice (SRC)

 

Energy crops are used as fuel in power stations and heating systems. In substitution for fossil fuels they have the potential to reduce emissions of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide and contribute towards the UK emissions target under the Kyoto Protocol and EU and domestic targets for the use of renewable energy sources.

Currently the major energy crop grown in the UK is short rotation coppice (SRC). This consists of densely planted, high-yielding varieties of either willow or poplar. The establishment of SRC plantations has more in common with agricultural or horticultural crops than forestry.

Various schemes have already been established for using energy crops for the generation of electricity and more are planned.

Defra provides grants to assist with establishment of SRC. Grants are also available for setting up SRC producer groups to facilitate harvesting and supply to the energy market.