Short Rotation Coppice Scheme
The Short Rotation Coppice Scheme is funded under Axis 1 of the Rural Development Programme and delivered by DARD. It aims to assist in developing the wider renewable energy market by increasing the amount of SRC grown for energy use in Northern Ireland.
Short rotation coppice is a specialised form of forestry plantation which involves growing high yielding trees, such as willow, at close spacing and harvesting at regular intervals (every two to three years). The harvested crop is usually converted into wood chips which can be used as a fuel to generate heat and electricity. When oil and gas prices are volatile, wood-chip energy provides a consistent energy source and a long-term supply.
Who can apply?
The short rotation coppice scheme is open to famers and land managers with at least three hectares of agricultural land available for planting.
What funding is available?
| Level of support | Maximum rate of grant/ha |
Less Favoured Area (LFA) | Up to 50% of establishment costs(or up to 60% for young farmers)* | £1,000 |
| Outside Less Favoured Area(LFA) | Up to 40% of establishment costs(or up to 50% for young farmers)* | £1,000 |
*A young farmer is defined as a person who has successfully entered the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Financial Assistance for Young Farmers Scheme for Northern Ireland (also known as the New Entrants Scheme).
Grant aid is paid in two installments – 70% when planting is completed and 30% when cutback is completed after the first year.
How do I apply?
The opening and closing dates for schemes/programmes supported by the Rural Development Programme are advertised and promoted widely. Please check the
When Can I Apply? section of the website for details of what schemes are open for applications. Depending on the scheme, application forms may be available for download.
What happens next?
When your application is received we will check it to make sure that it is eligible and to see that it has been correctly completed, best practice guidelines have been followed and that all relevant documents are included.
If your application:
• passes these initial checks, we will acknowledge it;
• is incomplete, does not follow best practice guidelines, or ineligible, we will inform you of what you need to do and will only process it once all of the required information has been received.
If your application is eligible, a forester will arrange to carry out a site visit in order to confirm suitability. If your application is successful, you will receive a letter of approval, an annotated map and a claim form.
Frequently asked questions
When can I apply?
You can apply at any time during the year, but applications must be received before 31 January each year for funding of planting in the following spring.
How long does the application process take?
You will normally be informed whether your application has been approved within eight weeks of Forest Service acknowledging the eligibility of your application. However, this will depend on whether any objections are raised or if further information is required.
Do I need to have an end use for the harvested crop?
Yes. You will need to submit a letter of intent from your intended end user as well as a contract showing how much biomass they expect to receive and for how long. If you intend to grow the crop to heat your own home, you will need to produce evidence of plans you have to install suitable equipment.
Can I plant in several phases?
No. The agreed area must be planted in one phase in the season immediately following application (usually Springtime). It is not possible to add land to an existing agreement. A new application must be submitted for any additional land.
Would the Short Rotation Coppice Scheme affect my Single Farm Payments?
You can plant land with Short Rotation Coppice and this area can be claimed under your Single Farm Payment.
