RDI operates two woodfuel producer groups in England and has advised on the establishment of several more. Producer groups are increasingly being realised as a key tool in bringing the benefits of expanding woodfuel markets to small businesses, farmers and other woodland owners, RDI are providing strong leadership in the field of supply chain co-operation.
North East Woodfuels and Yorkshire Woodfuels operate as separate not-for-profit companies with their membership and Boards drawn from farming and forestry enterprises. The innovative structure of the groups, both of which are funded by Defra’s Bio-energy Infrastructure Scheme, effectively insulates them from the need to employ staff directly, while at the same time providing cost savings and other benefits. Both groups are making strong contributions to the development of the woodfuel industries of Yorkshire and North East England, with several supply contracts in place with customers ranging from power stations to schools.
RDI staff provide a wide range of support to both groups, including company secretarial duties, contract negotiation, marketing, training and involving the membership in other regional structures that benefit their businesses. Based on this real-world experience, RDI have advised on the establishment of producer groups in southern and northern Scotland and south west England for public and third-sector clients. RDI also offer training and animation sessions, group hosting and development services.
Yorkshire Woodfuels
Yorwoods has secured funding from DEFRA to operate Yorkshire Woodfuels, a membership based co-operative of woodland owners, forestry contractors and other forest based and timber using businesses in the Yorkshire Region. Once the business has subscribed, it can take advantage of the following services provided by experienced Yorwoods staff:
- Assessment of woodfuel resource
- Production forecasting of estate woodlands
- Grant aid advice
- Advice on forest management planning, certification and chain of custody
- Advice on timber and woodfuel marketing to wood fuel end users such as the power generators and local heat schemes as they are developed
- Signposting and supervisory service to suitable contractors to undertake contract work
- Training opportunities
The project aims are to develop the woodfuel supply chain in the region and provide support for woodland owners and forest based businesses. By working as a group, the members will be able to pool resources and expertise and undertake larger supply contracts. The group will be able to give large scale end users confidence in the local supply chain and ensure reliable and effective supplies of wood fuel.
