The majority of problems occurred with biomass installations in the UK are associated with the quality of fuels used. Each biomass boiler installation has a specific range of fuel requirements that enable it to operate efficiently and to meet the low level emission criteria set out by Ofgem.
In order for your biomass boiler to run efficiently
✓ Burn fuel with a low moisture content
✓ Keep your Boiler maintained for good performance
✓ Only use the finest quality of fuel
✓ Use the correct size of fuel, avoid using longer chips as this cause blocking/ jamming in the augers
✓ Never use damp / wet fuel
Midlands Woodchip is an RHI approved supplier of dried wood chip
Currently the majority of wood fuel is purchased on the basis of cost instead of the quality, sustainability and traceability of the fuel. Although the Government is now implementing a scheme to ensure the wood used to fuel biomass boilers promotes sustainable use of woodland in the UK. The (DECC) Departments of Energy & Climate Change has launched the Biomass Suppliers List (BSL) to enable biomass wood fuel to be located and sourced from RHI accredited fuel suppliers. Midlands Woodchip is an approved supplier of dried wood chip under this scheme.
The Renewable Heat Incentive
The RHI scheme helps the UK reduce GHG emissions and meet the EU targets to reduce carbon emissions. By reducing our use of fossil fuels and increasing the use of heat from renewable energy sources, we can improve energy security and reduce the effects of climate change. Ofgem is responsible for implementing and administrating this scheme on behalf of the Department of Energy and Climate Change.
Meter readings & your responsibilities
Your ongoing responsibilities include keeping a close watch on the quality of your fuel at all stages, from when added to your fuel store up to the point it is burned. If the fuel does not comply with the emissions certificate Ofgem will withhold your RHI payments.
-Taking meter readings and submitting all heat data
-Regular maintenance, including all equipment and keep a record of maintenance schedule
-Keeping records of fuel receipts and origin of wood fuel
Emissions & the Combustion of biomass
Most biomass is roughly composed of: 50% Carbon 40% Oxygen 5% Hydrogen, Under ideal combustion conditions = CO2, H2, 0.3% Nitrogen, 0.1% Sulphur, 0.1% Chlorine and other trace elements.
By burning dry fuel, you can reduce your heating costs over the lifetime of your boiler, using virgin wood produces less CO2. Wood fuel with impurities will lead to higher pollution and maintenance costs. Using dry fuel with a low ash content and minimal impurities will burn the most efficiently.