Cleaner Safer Group launches with appointment of new Non-Executive Director
Cleaner Safer Group (CSG) – parent company to not-for-profit organisations, HETAS and Woodsure – has announced its official launch, along with the appointment of a new Non-Executive Director, Dr Dermot Roddy. With a mission of working together for a cleaner, safer and more sustainable environment, the new not-for-profit organisation, CSG, will build on the work of both HETAS and Woodsure, bringing together each organisation’s resources, expertise and stakeholders. In addition, CSG will work to expand into new markets, applying their knowledge and specialist skills to new sectors, mitigating safety and environmental risks. CSG aims to work with, partner and support organisations and businesses working in these sectors. Working with a wide range of stakeholders, HETAS and Woodsure specialise in operating certification schemes in the solid fuel, wood and biomass sectors. Both organisations also work with government to run a number of contracted schemes, including the Ready to Burn certification schemes for wood and manufactured solid fuels – administered on behalf of Defra, the Biomass Suppliers List and smoke control exemption for appliances. As the parent company, CSG will grow and develop HETAS and Woodsure, expanding their operations, while also developing and delivering its own range of services. As part of its work with public and private sector organisations, CSG offers business consultation on air quality improvement and net zero emissions, from helping to navigate environmental regulations to developing strategic guidance and innovative solutions. Non-Executive Director, Dr Dermot Roddy, will be joining the CSG board to help the organisation leverage industry partnerships and diversify technologies used to capture biomass energy, beyond individual household appliances. With experience including Science City Professor of Energy at Newcastle University, Director of the Sir Joseph Swan Institute for Energy Research at Newcastle University, Chairman at North East Biofuels and several years working in the oil refinery sector, Dr Roddy brings to his role a wealth of scientific and practical knowledge across the energy sector, as well as highly effective partnerships with multiple organisations across the biomass space. Dr Roddy comments: “Through the registration and certification schemes for fuels, appliances, installers and retailers administered by HETAS and Woodsure, CSG has already made great strides in building confidence in trustworthy fuels and in domestic wood-burning appliances which provide a clean, safe source of heat. There is, however, a perception that biomass energy is too small to make a significant difference to the UK’s renewable heat goals. “I believe the future lies in expanding the range of useable biomass types, developing technologies used for harnessing the energy potential of these potential fuels and looking beyond the confines of individual domestic appliances. As NED, my main goal will be to help CSG further develop its role in working with others in the industry to bring that future to fruition for a cleaner, safer and more sustainable environment.” Bruce Allen, CEO and Director of Cleaner Safer Group, adds: “We’re incredibly excited to be able to announce the launch of Cleaner Safer Group. Through HETAS and Woodsure we have been able to develop key specialisms, working with industry leaders and government to promote and educate on cleaner, safer and more sustainable approaches to solid fuel and biomass energy usage. We are now at a point where we are ready to expand our operations, potentially to markets outside of combustion alone, and feel that CSG will empower us to be able to do exactly that. “We’re looking forward to getting the ball rolling and continuing our work with our current and future stakeholders to promote cleaner, safer choices and approaches and mitigate environmental risks. The appointment of our new NED, Dr Dermot Roddy, is a huge part of that move forward. “It was clear from the start that Dermot is driven to supporting excellent practice in governance and that he cares about the future of the sustainable heat and energy sector in the UK – something which we at Cleaner Safer Group really value. His skills, knowledge and wealth of sector-spanning experience – both academically and in science and business – combined with his passion form a combination of attributes in someone that we are incredibly excited to work with.” On Thursday 14th November, Cleaner Safer Group will be holding its first annual conference, bringing together industry leaders and government to discuss the latest progress and strategies, and how the biomass and solid fuel industry can innovate for a sustainable tomorrow. Being held at the National Self Build & Renovation Centre in Swindon, guest speakers include Tunde Ojetola, Senior Policy Advisor at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). Visit the Cleaner Safer Group website here: https://www.cleanersafergroup.co.uk/
Amendment to NBHS to become law on 1st January 2025
An amendment to the New Build Heat Standard (NBHS) was laid in Scottish Parliament on Friday 8th November that will allow bioenergy systems, including wood burning stoves, to be installed in all new homes and buildings and in existing buildings that are being converted. This sets in motion the pathway for the Direction to amend the NBHS, announced in September this year, to become law on the 1st January 2025. The amendment addresses the significant concerns raised by the Stove Industry Association on behalf of its members and the wider industry, and the thousands of households, particularly in rural and island communities, that rely on their wood burning stoves for heat and security. Commenting on Friday’s announcement, Andy Hill, chair of the Stove Industry Association, said: “We are delighted that common sense has prevailed and that wood burning stoves remain available as a choice for all households across Scotland seeking a net zero carbon, sustainable and renewable way to heat their homes utilising a fuel source that is both abundant and local.” A key tenet of the Stove Industry Association’s campaigning on behalf of its members and homeowners in Scotland was that in effectively banning the installation of wood burning stoves in new build properties and renovations, the NBHS went against its own principles of reducing carbon from domestic heating. In a business and regulatory impact assessment published on 8th November the Scottish government acknowledged that: “While combustion of biomass does physically produce CO2 emissions at the point of use, these emissions are balanced out against CO2 that was absorbed from the atmosphere when the biomass feedstock grew. As a result, for the purposes of reporting on emissions, and in line with international carbon accounting practice, the Scottish Government considers the combustion of biomass to produce net zero CO2 emissions at the point of use.” Andy Hill added: “Wood burning at home is a fundamental part of homes and family life across the country. Its use offers the reassurance of energy grid independence and protection against fluctuating gas and electricity process. The acknowledgment that biomass is carbon neutral at the point of use is vital to facilitating a pathway to net zero in Scotland.”
Customers Seeking Affordable Energy Costs Results in Solid Fuel Increase
Customers seeking eco-friendly, affordable energy costs driving boom in solid fuel this winter season. Modern wood-burning stoves have a clear role to play in our low-carbon future. Fire&Flame, a leading retailer of solid fuel, has revealed that log sales are up by 16% this year. This is a result of a growing trend of people wanting to improve their homes with wood burners rather than move house while looking for an eco-friendly yet cost-effective way to keep their homes warm. Wood logs cost 68% less per kWh than electric heating and 13% less than an air source heat pump. With a modern wood burning stove using less than a third of the amount of wood fuel compared to an open fire to give the same amount of heat, customers are turning to solid fuel, as gas and electric prices continue to rise putting extra pressure on household budget. With forecasters predicting another wet and windy winter, people across the UK retreating to the snugness of their living rooms with real fires now the hub for families. Caroline Morris, Sales Director for Fire&Flame said; “Over the past year, we have seen an increase in retailers stocking solid fuel as the popularity of woodburning stoves continues to boom. “Last winter, retailers saw up to a triple increase in predicted turnover, and we are expecting 2024/2025 solid fuel sales to further increase. As stove sales rise, the demand for eco-friendly fuel products has also increased.” The Bar-Be-Quick brand Fire&Flame’s range of winter fuels, including wood briquettes and kindling, are all sustainably produced, and offer an ideal solution for those who want to reduce their carbon footprint and make their homes more sustainable. Increasingly, consumers are prioritising eco-friendly and sustainable products. Offering sustainably sourced wood aligns with the environmentally-conscious consumer demands, strengthens the brand loyalty and ensures alignment with the companies values of responsibility and integrity. Using sustainable and eco-friendly fuel significantly reduces consumers’ carbon footprint and helps protect the environment. Products made using waste products that would otherwise go to landfill make an excellent choice for anyone who wants to reduce their waste output and live a more sustainable lifestyle. Visit the Fire&Flame website here: https://www.fireandflame.co.uk/
Devon family business, Rangemoors, celebrates 50th anniversary
One of Devon’s oldest stove providers, Rangemoors, is celebrating its 50th year in business. Founded in 1974, Rangemoors has evolved into one of the leading providers of wood-burning gas and electric stoves, range cookers, and heating solutions in South West England. Now a multi-generational family business, Rangemoors operates from its headquarters in Winkleigh, with additional locations in Exeter and Aveton Gifford near Kingsbridge. As Rangemoors celebrates its 50-year milestone, it remains under the leadership of Andrew Baker, Managing Director. Andrew’s wife, Kate, also serves as a director, and three of their sons, Ashley, Callum and Zach, are actively involved in the business, continuing the tradition of excellence. Allan Vodden who has been with Rangemoors for many years, remains a key figure as Chairman, offering guidance and continuity. “It’s an honour to lead Rangemoors into its next chapter,” said Andrew Baker, Managing Director. “We are committed to upholding the traditions of quality and customer care that have defined this company for 50 years. With such a fantastic team supporting the business we are excited by what lies ahead.” Growth and Expansion Over Five Decades Rangemoors has experienced significant growth over the years. In 2004, the company built a new showroom on its current site, further expanding its product range, and sale of parts and spares. The business changed hands in 2007, through an MBO and under this team in 2008 undertook a re brand and complete review of the company’s market offering. In 2015 the business expanded with the setting up of a new showroom in Exeter. In 2023, the business continued to grow with the acquisition of West Country Stoves in Aveton Gifford near Kingsbridge. Today, Rangemoors offers one of the biggest selections of range cookers, stoves and products for outdoor living in the region and is committed to providing eco-friendly and energy-efficient heating solutions, featuring the latest in clean-burning technology. Chairman Allan Vodden, a long-standing figure within the company, said: “Rangemoors has experienced significant growth over the years, but our core values of integrity, innovation, and exceptional service have always remained constant. We are fortunate to have a dedicated staff and management team, many of whom have been with us for years. I’m proud to be part of this ongoing journey.” To mark its 50th anniversary, Rangemoors has planned a range of events and promotions throughout the year to celebrate with the local community and its loyal customers. There was a special celebratory event on Friday 18th and Saturday 19th Octoberat the Winkleigh showroom featuring product and cooking demonstrations with representatives and cooks from several leading manufacturers. Visit their website here: https://rangemoors.co.uk/
Enjoy mesmerising flames with the Hergom Glow stove from Eurostove
As the nights draw in and the weather takes a chilly turn, now is the perfect time to invest in a wood burning stove. Offering the perfect blend of sleek design with state-of-the-art efficiency, the Hergom Glow stove from Eurostove will instantly transform any space into a cosy retreat. Available as Pedestal, Logstore or wall-hung models, each stove is expertly crafted for consistent and efficient heat, making the home feel warm and welcoming throughout the winter months. Elegant and efficient, the A-rated Hergom Glow cast iron wood burning stove elevates any living space with its sleek design and controlled, clean combustion. Its advanced double combustion system increases energy efficiency while reducing pollutant emissions with external air connection to improve indoor air quality and combustion efficiency. Glow also offers even and long-lasting heat with 4-8kW minimum-maximum heat output and large front glass and side panels. The elevated design gives a panoramic view of the flickering flames within, adding ambience and a mesmerising focal point to any room. Added benefits include a removable ash drawer for mess-free cleaning, a top and rear smoke outlet for installation flexibility and an airwash glass cleaning system to keep the stove’s glass panels consistently clean for a clear view of the fire at all times. “The Glow stoves from Hergom are made for both style and substance,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “Bringing consistent, radiant heat into the home, they are perfect for warming up after a bracing winter walk and provide the ultimate focal point for Christmas.” The Hergom Glow Pedestal and Logstore wood burning stoves are priced from £3,590 at Eurostove while the wall hung version is from £3,210. Want to stay up-to-date with all the latest information, updates and product releases from within the industry? Subscribe to Fireplace Specialist Magazine today.
The Woodland double-sided woodburning stove from Mendip
With the evenings turning chilly and winter not far away, now is the perfect time to think about heating the home or plan for a new heating project and invest in a flexible woodburning stove that turns rooms into a cosy and comfortable retreat. A woodburner is the ultimate focal point for the living room, kitchen-diner or open-plan space and whether it’s a country cottage, new-build project or contemporary living, it complements all types of property and interiors, too. The new Woodland Double-Sided Woodburning Stove from Mendip is ideal for curling up next to with a good book, gathering around with friends for a relaxed evening in and creating a delightful centrepiece for Christmas celebrations. It offers double-sided access and control, perfect for open-plan spaces, and as the doors open on both sides with controls on both sides too, this stove can heat a large open-plan space such as a kitchen-diner or kitchen-cum-living area or heat two rooms simultaneously when the stove is installed within the chimney breast of two adjoining rooms. As well as being able to heat two rooms or spaces at the same time, it also has a large glass viewing window to watch the flickering flames as they dance inside while its deep 539mm design, cast iron doors and convection top plate all add to its appeal. This Ecodesign stove is also 12mm floor plate compatible, has a three-way air system to keep the glass clean and soot-free on the inside during use, closed combustion for high heat output, no mess or fuss and effective control and is suitable for smoke control areas. To keep kiln-dried logs, seasoned wood and kindling close to hand, the Woodland Double-Sided Stove is also available as a log store version. Examples of good wood to burn are ash, birch, beech, oak and elm for great heat and flame output or cedar, walnut or yew for an aromatic burn. “We’re so excited to introduce the new Mendip Woodland Double-Sided Stove,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Mendip Stoves, “This extremely efficient heating solution can provide warmth and a cosy glow to two areas at the same time, ideal for large or open-plan homes where keeping the temperature consistent throughout can be a challenge.” With the evenings turning chilly and winter not far away, now is the perfect time to think about heating the home or plan for a new heating project and invest in a flexible woodburning stove that turns rooms into a cosy and comfortable retreat. A woodburner is the ultimate focal point for the living room, kitchen-diner or open-plan space and whether it’s a country cottage, new-build project or contemporary living, it complements all types of property and interiors, too. The new Woodland Double-Sided Woodburning Stove from Mendip is ideal for curling up next to with a good book, gathering around with friends for a relaxed evening in and creating a delightful centrepiece for Christmas celebrations. It offers double-sided access and control, perfect for open-plan spaces, and as the doors open on both sides with controls on both sides too, this stove can heat a large open-plan space such as a kitchen-diner or kitchen-cum-living area or heat two rooms simultaneously when the stove is installed within the chimney breast of two adjoining rooms. As well as being able to heat two rooms or spaces at the same time, it also has a large glass viewing window to watch the flickering flames as they dance inside while its deep 539mm design, cast iron doors and convection top plate all add to its appeal. This Ecodesign stove is also 12mm floor plate compatible, has a three-way air system to keep the glass clean and soot-free on the inside during use, closed combustion for high heat output, no mess or fuss and effective control and is suitable for smoke control areas. To keep kiln-dried logs, seasoned wood and kindling close to hand, the Woodland Double-Sided Stove is also available as a log store version. Examples of good wood to burn are ash, birch, beech, oak and elm for great heat and flame output or cedar, walnut or yew for an aromatic burn. “We’re so excited to introduce the new Mendip Woodland Double-Sided Stove,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Mendip Stoves, “This extremely efficient heating solution can provide warmth and a cosy glow to two areas at the same time, ideal for large or open-plan homes where keeping the temperature consistent throughout can be a challenge.” Mendip’s Woodland Double-Sided Stove is priced from £3,000 Subscribe to Fireplace Specialist Magazine today and never miss an update.
MSP calls for compensation after the ‘humiliating u-turn’ from the Scottish government over woodburner ‘ban’
Industry and rural communities celebrate after campaign success. Businesses in the fireplace sector should be compensated for the cost of the ‘illogical’ ban from the Scottish Government on woodburning stoves in Scotland, a politician has demanded. As reported, there was shock when Holyrood implemented the New Build Heat Standard on April 1 – legislation that meant only “zero emission” heating systems were allowed to be installed when constructing new build properties. The Scottish government said it had widespread support for the new law in the bid to get to ‘Net Zero’ but said developers or homeowners could apply for a warrant to have a stove for ‘emergency heating’ if zero emission heating systems fail. The move sparked months of campaigning from the industry, including the SIA, the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps and politicians representing rural communities, where electric and mains gas heating are frequently unavailable. One of those, Rachael Hamiltion MSP, hailed the decision to reverse the legislation. She commented: “This humiliating u-turn from SNP ministers is a direct result of repeated pressure from the Scottish Conservatives, industry stakeholders and rural and island communities. “The SNP never thought through the deeply damaging consequences this ban would have on rural and remote communities, where these heating systems are a lifeline. “It summed up how out-of-touch SNP ministers are with their needs and this u-turn is long overdue. “Now the SNP must conclude that the lifting of the ban should be a permanent one and explore every way in which they can compensate those businesses who have lost out in recent months due to this illogical policy.” John Stone, Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps director in Scotland, said he was delighted that pressure from the Guild, the SIA and others, had achieved the outcome they wanted. He said: “I am happy that the work done by those who used the postcards and letters supplied free by the Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps, to inform their customers, has worked. “This turnaround was only achieved by chimney sweeps, stove sellers and installers from various associations, working together for the benefit of their Industry. “Thank you all!” A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “Ministers confirmed to Parliament in May that there would be a review of the New Build Heat Standard, with the intention to adapt it to address issues of inflexibility raised by communities – particularly regarding the installation of wood burning stoves in new homes in rural areas. “The Minister for Climate Action has now written to local authorities to temporarily relax the Standard in relation to the use of bioenergy and peat heating, pending the conclusion of that formal review. “This does not have any implications for the outcome of the review which is currently concluding – any regulatory amendments will be introduced by the end of the year. “The New Build Heat Standard only applies to new homes and buildings – there is currently no regulation of the type of heat in existing buildings.” To find out more, read our most recent story here.
Stove Industry Association Welcomes Scottish Government Direction on New Build Heat Standard
The Stove Industry Association (SIA) has welcomed the announcement by Alasdair Allan, Minister for Climate Action in Scotland, that wood-burning stoves will be permitted for installation in new build homes, heralding it as a “common sense and progressive step”. The ministerial Direction, which comes after months of campaigning by the SIA on behalf of its members and the wider stove industry, has been issued to all councils in Scotland today. It permits, for domestic buildings, the installation of bioenergy heating (biofuels and biomass) and peat heating systems. Scottish government states that it “is akin to the position before the New Build Heat Standard (NBHS) came into force on 1 April 2024, where no restrictions were placed on the use of either of these fuel types”. The legislative amendments required to support this Direction are expected to be in place by the end of this year following the conclusion of a review of the NBHS and the associated technical guidance which includes an examination of the role of wood burning stoves and bioenergy systems in Scotland. This significant development marks a positive step towards sustainable heating solutions and aligns with the SIA’s commitment to promoting low carbon, efficient and sustainable heating technologies. The Stove Industry Association has spearheaded the campaign for a review of the NBHS, arguing that modern wood burning stoves are among the lowest carbon-emitting heating options available, significantly reducing carbon intensity compared to direct electric heating. The Association raised concerns that the ban left many Scottish households, especially in rural areas, vulnerable to heat loss during power outages and exacerbates fuel poverty by limiting heating choices. The SIA also highlighted the economic impact on the stove industry, which employs around 2,000 people in Scotland and contributes £60 million annually to the economy. Commenting on the news, SIA chair, Andy Hill, said: “We commend the Scottish government for taking this common sense and progressive step. The SIA strongly supports this Direction as it aligns with our mission to advance the use of sustainable and renewable heating solutions. Bioenergy heating systems, such as wood-burning stoves, offer a viable alternative to fossil fuel-based heating methods. This Direction not only promotes the use of renewable energy sources but also provides homeowners with more options for efficient and sustainable heating.” Key Highlights of the Direction: Subscribe to Fireplace Specialist Magazine and never miss an update from within the industry.
Invest in a Mendip stoves Cooktop to Save Energy and Reduce Winter Bills
A freestanding woodburning stove is the heart of the home. Providing instant heat and cosy comfort on wet and windy afternoons and chilly evenings, a woodburner also adds a feature focal point to any living space. For extra value and multifunctional use, a cooktop stove also provides a handy cooking plate on top. With the energy price cap set to rise in October 2024 and again in January 2025, now is the time to start thinking about a contingency plan for cooking or popping the kettle on without the need for high-priced gas or electricity. Mendip stoves has the perfect solution with its Loxton cooktop stove which also comes with a logstore option. Mendip Stoves’ Loxton 3 Cooktop stove is available with or without a logstore and includes a rear to vertical adapter plus an extended cast iron top plate for an even heat when cooking. Perfect for cooking without gas or electricity, it’s ideal for simple one-pot dishes such as scrambled eggs and it can also be used to boil a hob-top kettle. The extended surface is ideal for popping a plate or mug on and it’s extra useful if the home is unexpectedly plunged into a power cut. The compact stove is full of charm and character and is ideal for country cottages, rural retreats and smaller spaces as well as garden rooms and even glamping pods for holiday guests all year round. “We’re so excited to introduce these new cooktop stoves to our wide range of woodburners,” says Chris Baines, Managing Director of Eurostove. “As well as providing instant heat for homes during the autumn and winter months, they can be used all year round for one-pot cooking. A great investment for any home or holiday site, offering extra value as well as multifunctional use.” The Loxton 3 Cooktop stove from Mendip Stoves is priced £1,129. The Loxton 3 Logstore Cooktop stove costs £1,297.30. Subscribe to Fireplace Specialist Magazine to stay updated on all the latest product releases from Mendip Stoves.
Introducing the revolutionary Solus iX by Vision Fires
Percy Doughty, a leading innovator in the design and manufacturing of heating solutions, is proud to announce the launch of its revolutionary Solus iX; the latest addition to the Solus range of contemporary luxury electric fires. This state-of-the-art product combines cutting-edge Truburn flame technology, bringing electric fires to life like never before. Using an innovative patent-pending method to create moving flames, combined with ultra realistic glowing logs and authentic sound effects, the level of realism is unparalleled, resulting in the convincing illusion of a real fire. The Solus iX is designed to bring warmth, style, and efficiency to any home. By blending modern aesthetics with high performance, this electric fireplace is set to redefine not just the electric fire industry, but the domestic heating industry as a whole. Key Features of the Solus iX include: Andrew Mulligan Managing Director said “Innovation, design and creativity have driven the product development of our Solus Collection. Our design team have collaborated to bring new and exciting ideas to life, to push the boundaries of traditional electric appliances through the application of new technologies.” Graeme Tombs, Head of Research and Development added “Our in-house team of designers and engineers all share a passion for innovation and user focused design. From the outset, we not only aimed to create an electric fire with an unrivalled level of realism, but to also create a product that broke down the barriers of traditional heating appliance categories. We wanted to offer the convenience and efficiency of an electric fire with the authenticity and ambience of real fire, and this is exactly what the iX range provides.” Launching initially with the iX15, a 1.5 metre wide model, then following soon after with the iX10 (1 metre wide), iX13 (1.3 metre wide) and iX18 (1.8 metre wide), all of which will be available by January 2025. The Solus iX15 is now available for order through Percy Doughty’s distribution network. For more information on the Solus Collection please visit visit www.visionfires.co.uk call 01204 868550 or email info@visionfires.co.uk