If you ask the public what is the most popular renewable energy technology, you are likely to hear solar panels and wind turbines. These technologies probably have the highest profile within the much hyped green energy sector. Solar panels and wind turbines have good credentials and should be viewed as true alternative technologies nevertheless. Still, most people forget a much simpler and humbler technology that has been around for many centuries. Wood burning stoves are not only effective and proven, but are also categorized as green, which makes them attractive yet again.
First let's understand how it works. Biomass means that the energy is produced from organic sources (bio-energy). The energy is released when organic sources (wood in this case) are burned, in the same way as mankind was doing for centuries. The fuel used in biomass boilers is either untreated wood or treated wood. Most common fuels are logs, wood chips and wood pallets.
From the types of wood used by biomass boilers the most effective and 'user-friendly' is the wood pallets fuel. Wood pallets are actually sawdust, which is compressed under high pressure into small pallets (roughly 5 cm in length). During the compression, the saw dust loses its moisture, making the pallets very dry and highly potent in terms of output to weight ratio. This ensures full burning performance and low residue on the burners.
Fossil fuels are normally associated with global warming and climate change. When fossil fuels are burned (e.g. natural gas in your domestic boiler), they release CO2 as part of their natural chemical reaction. This gas was captured within the fuel for millions of years in underground deposits. By burning it now, we release this gas into the atmosphere. Biomass boilers are considered to be carbon neutral heating technologies, because they only release CO2 that was captured by the plant during its growth years, thus not bringing new CO2 into the global equation.
Before installing a biomass boiler it important to consider a few aspects of this technology:
* Reliable fuel supplier - it is recommended to check whether there are any sawmills or carpentry workshops in your vicinity that could supply a steady flow of wood, such as sawdust, wood chips etc.
* Space consideration - unlike modern gas and oil boilers, a biomass boiler is larger in size and requires a large area nearby to store the wood. It is wise to plan for this space in advance.
* Chimney consideration - a biomass boiler requires a chimney, and more specifically a lined chimney that is designed for wood fuel. However, in most cases such lining can be retro-fitted to carry the smoke.
* Smoke implications - some areas are designated 'Smoke Free'. If you live in such are, you need to find a unit that is exempted under the Clean Air Act.
* Other General Considerations - to avoid disappointment later, it is wise to check with the planning department of your local authority about the implications of installing a biomass boiler, especially if you live in a listed building or a conservation area.
About the Author
Tal Potishman, member of the Heating Central network, writes about central heating, Kent plumbers, boilers, heat pumps and solar thermal. He specializes in helping save money by advising on efficient heating.
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