Authorization Procedure for Biomass Energy Plants

Authorization Procedure for Biomass Energy Plants

Authorization Procedure for Biomass Energy Plants

The installation of biomass plants for energy production requires approval through a series of authorization procedures. These procedures are governed by specific regulations, including Legislative Decree no. 387/03 and the Regional Guidelines under Resolution d.g.r. XI/4803 of 31/05/2021.

Single Authorization by the Province

The Province, through its Department of Environmental Sustainability and Civil Protection, is responsible for issuing the single authorization for electricity generation from renewable sources such as biomass. This authorization is regulated by art. 12, paragraph 3 of Legislative Decree 387/03 as amended, and by Ministerial Decree of 10/09/2010. The procedure is also defined by Regional Guidelines.

Simplified Authorization Procedures

For specific cases, Legislative Decree 28/2011 establishes simplified authorization regimes. These include:

• The Simplified Authorization Procedure (PAS), under municipal responsibility, for new plants with a production capacity not exceeding 500 standard cubic meters/hour.
• PAS for partial or complete conversion of existing plants.
• PAS for modifications to plants already in operation that do not involve an increase in the already authorized area.

Application and Contents

The application for authorization must be submitted via the “Procedimenti” portal of the Lombardy Region. It must be accompanied by the required technical documentation, including building permits, environmental authorizations, and approvals from the competent authorities involved.

Reference Regulations

The main regulations governing authorization procedures include Legislative Decree 387/03, Legislative Decree 28/2011, Regional Guidelines, and other related legislative acts.

Environmental Assessments

Depending on the waste treatment capacity, environmental impact assessments may be required. The procedure varies depending on the characteristics of the plant, with specific rules for plants exceeding certain capacity thresholds.

Protected Areas

Specific provisions apply to plants located in protected areas, including landscape restrictions. Involvement of the competent authorities, such as the Ministry of Culture and the Superintendence for Archaeology, Fine Arts, and Landscape, is required to ensure compliance with regulations.

Costs and Timing

Applicants are subject to fees and stamp duties according to specific provisions, proportionate to the total investment of the plant. The timeframe for completing the authorization process varies depending on the procedures involved and the environmental assessments required.