Delaware leaders, including Governor Matt Meyer, are increasingly advocating for an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy, emphasizing the need for diverse energy sources in the state. Meyer has outlined plans for using solar, offshore wind, nuclear energy, and battery storage, but there is another underutilized resource: wood.
With about 352,000 acres of forestland in the state—predominantly privately owned—Delaware has the potential to harness wood as a renewable energy source. Despite the decline of the forest-products industry, a significant supply of lower-value wood is available that could be repurposed for energy production, as highlighted by studies revealing an annual availability of 125,000 green tons of woody biomass.
Other states, such as Vermont, have successfully integrated wood heat in public buildings, demonstrating the potential benefits of clean wood-energy systems. Additionally, organizations like PJM support biomass, including wood, for electricity generation.
Implementing a wood-energy market could revitalize Delaware’s forest-products industry, provide a local renewable energy source, and help preserve forest land from being developed. However, legislative barriers, particularly concerning incinerator laws, may hinder the potential for wood energy. Therefore, amending these regulations should be considered to fully embrace an all-of-the-above energy approach, integrating wood into the state’s energy dialogue.
For further details, you can read the full CRI article here and participate in CRI’s Affordable Energy Petition here.
