Bill > H3967

This bill amends South Carolina law by introducing a comprehensive definition of "biomass" and establishing guidelines for classifying bioenergy as carbon neutral or carbon negative. The bill defines biomass as a wide range of materials from forest product manufacturing, including residuals like pulping liquors, woody manufacturing waste, harvest residues, downed wood from natural disasters, landscape trimmings, and various other wood-related materials. It establishes that bioenergy produced from biomass is considered renewable and carbon neutral, and when combined with carbon capture and storage technology, it can be classified as carbon negative. Similarly, bioenergy produced from agricultural harvesting is also deemed renewable and carbon neutral, with the potential to be carbon negative when paired with carbon capture and storage. The technical term "bioenergy with carbon capture and storage" is defined as the process of capturing and permanently storing carbon dioxide generated during biomass energy production. The bill will go into effect upon approval by the Governor, and it aims to provide clear regulatory guidance for bioenergy production in South Carolina by recognizing the potential environmental benefits of certain biomass energy sources.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Health and Social Services

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3967&session=126&summary=B