Biomass heating boiler

Biomass

Overview

Biomass heating uses materials that were living relatively recently, such as wood, straw or Miscanthus, as heating fuels. Although these materials release CO2 when burned, this is exactly balanced by the amount they take up when growing.

The best overall energy balance is achieved when using biomass local to where it is available, avoiding the need for transport over long distances. This does not mean that biomass heating is only an option for rural areas. It is estimated that an additional 1 million tonne of wood per year could be recovered from unmanaged forests in England alone. 7.5 million tonnes of wood per year could be recovered from waste in the UK, 6 million tonnes of which are currently disposed of in landfill (UK Biomass Strategy 2007).

Our experience in the engineering of biomass district heating systems goes back 15 years. We cover the spectrum of activities, from prefeasibility and feasibility studies through system design and site management to commissioning. We work very closely with our clients, taking on responsibilities such as

  • The detailed design of the entire system, including silo, boiler house, boilers, wood fuel transport, the transport of heat within and between buildings, and all control aspects
  • Dealing with planning applications/listed building consent and building control
  • Identifying sources of possible funding, and applying for funding
  • Selecting and sourcing appropriate fuels
  • Organising and conducting public information events
  • Drafting and negotiating contracts for heat delivery
  • Tendering for all works (mechanical and electrical engineering, civil and structural engineering, installation of district heating, etc.)
  • Site supervision, cost management and administration during construction
  • System commissioning

Our Biomass Services