Dozens of green energy projects across Scotland are set to benefit from an additional £3 million of funding as part of the Executive's Biomass Action Plan which was published today.

Deputy First Minister Nicol Stephen was in Aboyne to officially 'fire up' the local Academy's woodchip biomass boiler system, a scheme which aims to save an estimated 15,000 tonnes of CO2 in the next 25 years.

The Plan includes greater use of the forestry and agriculture sectors, together with grant support to encourage greater use of biomass products.

Mr Stephen said the extra £3 million for the Biomass Support Scheme brings the total value of the grant scheme to £10.5 million.

"Today is another significant milestone in our efforts to establish Scotland as the renewables powerhouse of Europe.

"Last month saw us distribute more than £13 million for innovative marine energy projects and the confirmation that we'd met our 2010 target on renewables years ahead of schedule. And just last week we approved the extension of one of Britain's largest onshore windfarms in Dumfries and Galloway.

"These demonstrate the wide range of action we are taking on renewable energy, and we will not stop in our determination to push ahead with a diverse mix of clean, green energy sources for Scotland.

"It is vital that we support those renewable technologies yet to establish a significant foothold in Scotland - like biomass. Demand for a share of our Biomass Support Scheme has been so high that I have added additional funding of £3 million. I want many more innovative projects to benefit.

"Dozens of successful projects will be announced shortly and will reap the benefits of this green energy investment.

"The Biomass Action Plan will ensure this investment is used well. Forestry material, agricultural crops and waste products can make a contribution to our wider work on renewables and it is important we unlock its potential.

"I believe this Plan is an important step towards realising our biomass potential for electricity, heat and transport. I am determined that biomass will play a full part in Scotland's drive for green energy."

The Aboyne project has been supported by a £100,000 grant from the Executive's Scottish Community and Householder Renewables Initiative (SCHRI).

Mr Stephen added:

"This biomass project, the first to be undertaken by Aberdeenshire Council, is a tremendous example of what can be achieved by investment and innovation.

"The scheme will benefit the Academy and primary school, the community centre, indoor swimming pool, library and theatre. It will bring annual financial savings to the council, local economic benefits from the supply of raw material, and will act as an educational focal point for green energy.

"Above all else, it will play a part in our Clean Energy Programme, with estimated savings of over 15,000 tonnes of CO2 over the next 25 years."

Forestry Minister Sarah Boyack commented:

"Biomass has the potential to make a key contribution to our climate change objectives. The Plan will ensure that all types of biomass can fulfil the potential to supply Scotland with green, convenient heat and power by properly supporting the sector.

"The Plan brings together all the work that has been done to boost biomass and sets out what further steps we need to take to drive forward the development of this industry.

"Biomass is a key renewable resource for Scotland and we need to ensure we maximise its potential. Forestry Commission Scotland is working closely with colleagues in the Executive, industry and other stakeholders to look at ways to strengthen the supply chain and respond to growing demand for biomass."

The Scottish Biomass Support Scheme was opened for expressions of interest in November with initial funding of £7.5m. The full list of successful bidders will be announced in due course.