Using Biomass With Steam Could Double Energy Output

Biomass boiler heating could be optimised so that you can double the returns on it, an industry expert has pointed out.

By using steam alongside heat generation, many companies could double the Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) payments of biomass, according to Angelo Giambrone, business development manager for Spirax Sarco in the UK.

Calling dual biomass and steam generation an ‘unmissable opportunity’ he explained: “Generating steam instead of hot water in a biomass system allows the latest technology in electrical power generation to be used. This production of electricity from a ‘renewable’ fuel then allows users to claim as much as double the RHI benefit.

“Once the power is generated, the steam can then produce the hot water the site needs.”

The RHI scheme started in 2014 and encourages businesses, the public sector and non-profit organisations to increase the amount of renewable energy they produce. It can mean an extra income stream for some businesses.

The Government unveiled the plans with the hope that it would help contribute towards the country’s aim to obtain 12 per cent of heating from renewable energy resources by 2020. It covers domestic and non-domestic enterprises in England, Wales and Scotland.

Different amounts of money are available for each different tariff that is used and how much energy is actually generated.

Forms of energy supported by the initiative include:

• Biomass (wood fuelled) boilers
• Biomass pellet stoves with integrated boilers providing space heating
• Ground to water heat pumps
• Air to water heat pumps
• Solar thermal panels (flat plate or evacuated tube only) providing hot water for your home