A FORMER forestry commission wood fuel chief has launched a new venture in North Yorkshire to help stoke the fires of a green revolution.

VerdEnergy based in Tockwith has been set up by Rudie Humphrey and is working to supply wood pellets for boilers across the North of England.

The company is working in partnership with neighbouring business Duncan Renewables, which installs and maintains biomass boilers, to serve a growing popularity for the boilers which can now be found across the region in homes, farms, schools, greenhouses, offices, swimming pools and hotels.

Mr Humphrey, from York, ex-Forestry Commission wood fuel chief for Yorkshire and the North East, said: "The wood fuel market has witnessed spectacular growth in recent years thanks to high energy prices, past Government incentives and demand for more eco-friendly alternatives to oil and gas.

"Now we are in a consolidation phase where we need to create reliable supply networks and develop expertise to maintain installations.

"Working with our partner, Duncan Renewables, we aim to provide a one stop shop for customers. Together we can source, install and service boilers and importantly provide a Yorkshire-based supplier of fuel. We'll be competing with national players whose trucks travel the entire country, but we will be local to our market making us a more reliable and knowledgeable option."

VerdEnergy has already gained BSL approval, meaning its pellets will be RHI (Renewable Heat Incentive) compliant. In addition its pellets meet EN-Plus standards denoting low moisture content and high calorific value. Raw material supplied by VerdEnergy will be sourced from FSC certified woodlands which meet the highest international environmental standards.

VerdEnergy will serve customers in the Yorkshire, Cumbria, the North East and North Midlands.

Mr Humphrey said: "Switching to wood fuel provides a host of benefits It creates extra demand for timber which mean woods can be actively managed and that's better for wildlife.

"In turn this provides jobs in the processing and distribution industries and cuts down on our use of greenhouse gas fuels. It's a virtuous circle and through our expertise and local supply network we are making the sector more resilient and sustainable."