Written question asked by David Smith (Labour) on Tuesday, 29 October 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 31 October 2024. It was answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh (Labour) on Monday, 4 November 2024 on behalf of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Biofuels: Vegetable Oils

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, when he plans to make a decision on the use of hydrotreated vegetable oil fuel in homes.

Answer: As sustainable biomass is a limited resource, the Government expects to prioritise its use in sectors like aviation, and potentially the small number of homes unsuitable for heat pumps, as these sectors have fewest options to decarbonise. The cost of renewable liquid heating fuels is currently much higher than other fuels available to off grid customers. Before taking decisions on whether to support the use of renewable liquid fuels, like hydrotreated vegetable oil, in heating, the Government would require stronger evidence on their affordability for consumers, and the availability of sustainable feedstocks.

Secondary information