Government of Japan approves SBP certification for imported woody biomass

The Sustainable Biomass Program (SBP) has been recognized by the Government of Japan as meeting the requirements necessary for confirming both the life-cycle greenhouse gas emissions of imported woody biomass under Japan’s Feed-in Tariff (FIT)/Feed-in Premium (FIP) System for Renewable Energy, and the legality and sustainability of imported wood in line with guidelines set under the Clean Wood Act.

Carsten Huljus, SBP chief executive officer, commented: “This is very welcome news. We have long identified Japan as a growth market for biomass end-use and importantly one that is committed to sustainability in the sector. We are pleased to receive the recognition that will enable Certificate Holders in Japan to utilise the existing global supply chain of SBP-certified biomass and increase the volume of sustainably sourced material in the market.”

The Ministries of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) are responsible for the FIT/FIP System and Clean Wood Act, respectively.

Working with the Government of Japan’s appointed representatives, SBP has drafted a dedicated Instruction Document that will enable Certificate Holders to meet the Japanese requirements and allow SBP-certified biomass to be imported and used by Japanese power generators. The Instruction Document is expected to be finalised by the end of the year following a review by the SBP Technical committee and approval by the Japanese Biomass Sustainability Working Group.

SBP will offer training to all Certificate Holders to ensure smooth and effective implementation of the requirements. Further information will be made available in due course.