The National Farmers’ Union (NFU) has responded enthusiastically to the government’s Energy White Paper, published on Wednesday.

The paper backs a rise in renewable energy and increased use of energy-saving measures, as well as suggesting increased investment in nuclear power. Trade secretary Alistair Darling said the measures outlined could save between 22 million and 33m tonnes of carbon emissions by 2020.

NFU president Peter Kendall said: “The white paper reinforces the role biomass must play in the country’s future energy mix, and should help create exciting new opportunities for farmers.

“Agriculture has a major role to play in the provision of renewable energy sources through biomass and biofuel crops, and the government’s proposal to modify the ROCs banding to provide greater support for energy crops and emerging technologies like anaerobic digestion is great news.”