Revista brasil biomassa e pellets

REVISTA BRASIL

BIOMASSA E PELLETS

ASSOCIAO BRASILEIRA DAS INDSTRIAS DE BIOMASSA E ENERGIA RENOVVEL

INSTITUTO BRASILEIRO BIOMASSA E PELLETS

AVALIAO TCNICA DO

MERCADO DE PRODUO

E CONSUMO DE

BIOMASSA E PELLETS

CANA ENERGIA

MUDANAS NO

MERCADO DE PRODUO

E DE BIOELETRICIDADE

PELLETS FOR EUROPE

PRODUCTION AND

UTILISATION OF FUEL

AGRIPELLETS

REVISTA BRASIL BIOMASSA E PELLETS

REVISTA BRASIL BIOMASSA E PELLETS

Editada pela Associao Brasileira das Indstrias de Biomassa e Energia Renovvel

Coordenao da Edio CELSO MARCELO DE OLIVEIRA

Dados Internacionais de Catalogao na Publicao (CIP)

Contedo: 1. Anlise da Biomassa e Pellets no Brasil 2. Projees de Produo e Consumo de Biomassa

e Pellets 3. Gerao energia com o uso da Biomassa e Pellets 4. Potencial Regional e Nacional de

Pellets 5. WoodPellets e Eficincia energtica

CDU 620.95(81)CDD333.95 II. Ttulo. CDU 621.3(81)2030 : 338.28

Registrado na Biblioteca Nacional

Todos os direitos reservados a Associao Brasileira das Indstrias de Biomassa e Energia Renovvel

Copyright by ABIB Brasil e Celso Marcelo de Oliveira

Traduo e reproduo proibidas: total ou parcial sem a autorizao expressa do autor.

Lei 9.610, de 19de fevereiro de 1998.Edio eletrnica no Brasil e Portugal.


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URL Brasil Biomassa www.brasilbiomassa.com.br

Brasil Biomassa Empresa http://www.wix.com/abibbrasil/brasilbiomassa

Brasil Biomassa Consultoria http://brasilbiomassa.wix.com/consultoria

Brasil Biomassa - WoodPellets http://abibbrasil.wix.com/woodpellets

Brazil Biomass http://www.wix.com/abibbrasil/brazilbiomass

Brasil Biomassa Wood Bio Briquete http://www.wix.com/abibbrasil/briquete

SUMRIO EXECUTIVO REVISTA BRASIL BIOMASSA E PELLETS

SUMRIO EXECUTIVO INTERNACIONAL

EDITORIAL 4

ASSOCIAO BRASILEIRA DAS INDSTRIAS DE

BIOMASSA E ENERGIA RENOVVEL 6

BIOMASS GROWTH: WILL THE TREND HOLD?

BIOMASS POWER ASSOCIATION 11

PELLETS FOR EUROPE

EUROPEAN BIOMASS INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION 15

US PELLETS AROUND THE GLOBE

U.S. INDUSTRIAL PELLET ASSOCIATION 23

THE MANY BENEFITS OF REPLACING COAL WITH

WOOD PELLET FUEL FUTUREMETRICS 27

CADA VEZ SOMOS MS!

AVEBIOM 29

PRODUCIR Y CONSUMIR EN MODO LOCAL

BIOENERGY INTERNATIONAL 30

WOOD PELLET MARKET IS GROWING WORLD

WIDE: UP TO 15% INCREASE HY 2023

UKRAINIAN BIOFUEL

33

DRAX POWER STATION IS SWITCHING TO THE

BIOMASS FIRED PRODUCTION 35

EUROPE AT THE FOREFRONT OF WOODPELLETS

PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION 36

DONG ENERGY IS CONVERTING COAL FIRED

POWER STATION TO GREEN ENERGY 37

INTERNACIONAL GERMAN PELLETS 38

EVENTOS INTERNACIONAIS BIOMASSA E PELLETS 49

A INDSTRIA E MERCADO DOS PELLETS EM

PORTUGAL ASSOCIAO NACIONAL DE PELLETS

ENERGTICOS DE BIOMASSA EM PORTUGAL

52

INDSTRIAS PRODUTORAS DE PELLETS DE

PORTUGAL

56

BIOENERGY PORTUGAL WOODPELLETS 77

SUMRIO EXECUTIVO BRASIL

WOOD PELLETS BRASIL

INSTITUTO BRASILEIRO BIOMASSA E PELLETS

ASSOCIAO BRASILEIRA DAS INDSTRIAS DE

BIOMASSA E ENERGIA RENOVVEL

82

UNIDADE COMPACTA E MODULAR DE PRODUO DE

PELLETS TECNOLOGIA BRASILEIRA 88

PELLETS E BRIQUETES NO BRASIL

EMBRAPA AGROENERGIA

90

ESTUDO DO MERCADO DE PELLETS NO BRASIL

APEX BRASIL

95

CARACTERIZAO DE CASCA DE AVEIA PARA USO EM

PROCESSOS TRMICOS DE GERAO DE ENERGIA

105

OS PRODUTORES DE PELLETS: DESAFIOS E

OPORTUNIDADES COM A COP-21

112

ESTUDO DA EMISSO DE PARTICULADOS

PROVENIENTES DA QUEIMA DE DIFERENTES TIPOS DE

BIOMASSA115

A CANA ENERGIA COMO OPO PARA SADA DA

CRISE PELO SETOR SUCRO-ENERGTICO

127

CANA ENERGIA 130

CANA ENERGIA E O BIOPELLETS

BRASIL BIOMASSA E ENERGIA RENOVVEL 137

TANAC EXEMPLO DE SUSTENTABILIDADE MAIOR

UNIDADE DE PRODUO DE PELLETS NO BRASIL

148

INDSTRIAS PRODUTORAS DE PELLETS NO BRASIL 153

Devemos ressaltar que a publicao vai divulgar os

principais projetos e empresas do setor de biomassa e

pellets.

Mensalmente vamos destacar uma empresa do setor onde

iniciamos com a Tanac um exemplo de sustentabilidade e

que est implantando a maior unidade industrial de pellets

no Brasil .

O mercado de pellets e de biomassa est passando por

uma fase de grande crescimento em funo do aumento do

consumo nacional e mundial de energia. Por isso decidimos

na publicao da primeira Revista Biomassa e Pellets do

Brasil.

A Revista Brasil Biomassa e Pellets a primeira publicao nacional que trata de aspecto tcnico, industrial e o

mercado nacional e internacional de biomassa e de pellets. Editada pela Associao Brasileira das Indstrias de

Biomassa e Energia Renovvel. Neste primeiro nmero recebemos mais de 45 artigos de profissionais do Brasil e

do exterior.

Estamos divulgando uma srie de estudos e eventos das principais entidades internacionais do setor de Biomassa

e Pellets como a European Biomass Industry Association, Biomass Power Association dos Estados Unidos, a

U.S.Industrial Pellets Association e a Associao Nacional de Pellets Energticos de Biomassa de Portugal.

Quando falamos no consumo mundial de pellets, as

previses mais otimistas so da European Biomass

Association onde devem ser consumidos 80 milhes de

toneladas de pellets em 2020 para uso industrial e

domstico.

Sikkema projeta que a demanda por pellets de madeira

poderia, em teoria, chegar a at 150 milhes de

toneladas at 2020, supondo que 50% de todas as

caldeiras de aquecimento de leo poderiam ser

substitudas, em 2020.

O mercado global de pellets deve chegar a US$ 9 bilhes

em 2020, segundo as informaes de Michele Rebiere.

Seth Ginther, Diretor Presidente da U.S. Industrial Pellet

Association aponta que em 2020 as estimativas variam

entre 25 at 70 milhes de toneladas de consumo de

pellets.

O Brasil tem uma grande necessidade de novas fontes sustentveis de energia. No PNE-2030 em cenrio de referncia,

admite-se um forte crescimento na demanda de energia primria interna, com esta saltando dos 218,7 milhes de tep para

555 milhes de tep em 2030. No mundo o avano pelo consumo energtico maior.

O International Energy Outlook 2013 projeta que, devido ao crescimento econmico, o consumo de energia passar das atuais

524 quadrilhes de unidades trmicas britnicas (Btu) para 820 quadrilhes de Btu em 2040 . A Unio Europia para atingir

as metas de uso de energias renovveis em 2020 com o uso de biomassa e pellets devem aumentar o consumo energtico de

82 milhes de tep em 2010 para 135 Mtep em 2020 (Blgica, Frana, Alemanha, Itlia, Holanda e Reino Unido).

EDITORIAL DA REVISTA BRASIL BIOMASSA E PELLETS

EDITORIAL DA REVISTA BRASIL BIOMASSA E PELLETS

Avaliamos o modelo atual de produo e a perspectiva

futura das grandes plantas industriais no Brasil, bem

como os problemas atuais de distribuio da produo

nacional no mercado internacional (avaliao tcnica da

viabilidade econmico e financeira e o planejamento

estratgico para incrementar a produo nacional) e da

necessidade de uma legislao nacional de incentivo a

produo e ao uso de biomassa e pellets.

Queremos criar novas oportunidades de negcio e na

gerao de novos empregos e dividendos ao Brasil.

Esta Revista vai ajudar as empresas nacionais no

conhecimento da tecnologia de produo e para o

aproveitamento residual na transformao em energia

limpa na forma de pellets com o cunho de

desenvolvimento de novos e sustentveis negcios.

Portanto, queremos promover a eficincia energtica

nacional e o desenvolvimento sustentvel a partir do

emprego da energia limpa com a produo e o uso de

biomassa e pellets.

Neste contexto a Revista Brasileira Biomassa e

Pellets analisa a dinmica do mercado (produtor

e consumidor) de biomassa e pellets. Um uso

economicamente vivel de pellets e biomassa no

Brasil uma condio indispensvel para a

existncia a longo prazo contnuo do setor de

energia.

O Brasil tem um enorme potencial de biomassa

(resduos florestais, agrcolas e industriais) para o

aproveitamento na matriz energtica ou para o

desenvolvimento de projetos industriais

sustentveis em Energia Limpa e Renovvel.

Celso Oliveira

Editor da Revista Brasileira Biomassa e

Pellets

Presidente da Associao Brasileira das

Indstrias de Biomassa e Energia

Renovvel

Diretor Executivo do Instituto Brasileiro

Biomassa e Pellets

A Associao Brasileira das Indstrias de Biomassa e Energia Renovvel fundada em abril de 2009 como uma

associao nacional representativa do setor das indstrias de biomassa e bioenergia no Brasil com 1259

empresas associadas no Brasil sendo a maior entidade internacional do setor de biomassa e bioenergia.


Como princpios, a Associao Brasileira das

Indstrias de Biomassa e Energia Renovvel busca:

Garantir a sustentabilidade na produo, consumo e

no uso da biomassa, woodchips, pellets e briquetes

para fins de energia. Assegurar a realizao de

projetos industriais que incrementem a eficincia

operacional do sistema energtico. Buscar melhoria

contnua da qualidade dos produtos industriais

sustentveis.

Apoio aos projetos nacionais e discusso com os

players comerciais e de e fundos nacionais e

internacionais de investimentos em biomassa. Os

nossos valores envolvem o desenvolvimento de

projetos sustentveis e de valorizao ao meio-

ambiente.

O principal objetivo da ABIB Brasil apoiar as indstrias brasileiras

de biomassa e bioenergia, woodchips, pellets e briquetes a todos os

nveis, de promover a utilizao da biomassa como fonte renovvel

de energia, a desenvolver conceitos inovadores bioenergia e

fomentando a cooperao internacional no mbito das energias

renovveis. Buscamos contribuir para o desenvolvimento social,

econmico e ambiental, por meio da utilizao responsvel dos

recursos naturais renovveis para a gerao de energia.

Cabe ainda Associao em promover cursos/seminrios e editar

publicaes tcnicas; trocar informaes com entidades nacionais e

internacionais, visando ao desenvolvimento e capacitao de suas

Associadas com nfase na defesa dos interesses do Setor de

Biomassa e Bioenergia.

1.Colaborao ao setor de biomassa e bioenergia para o

desenvolvimento de uma poltica de padronizao e certificao

nacional dos produtos industriais (pellets e briquetes).

2.Pesquisa industrial e o desenvolvimento da tecnologia nacional

equipamentos industriais.

3.Apoio tcnico para o desenvolvimento do mercado brasileiro de

consumo, da tecnologia nacional de queimadores e caldeira industrial

e aos novos projetos industriais que visam o mercado nacional e

internacional.

4.Estudos de ordem tcnica em mais de 350 e-books publicados e estudo de anlise de mercado e o Atlas Brasileiro de Biomassa e Bioenergia e o

Anurio Brasileiro das Indstrias Produtoras de Biomassa, Briquete e de Pellets.

5.Acompanhamento do mercado internacional de consumo e a divulgao na Revista Brasileira Biomassa e Bioenergia e da Revista Brasileira

Biomassa e Pellets.

6.Participao de projetos governamentais e de acordo bilateral de bioenergia e biomassa.

7.Apoio aos projetos nacionais e discusso com os players comerciais e de e fundos nacionais e internacionais de investimentos em

biomassa.


8.Participao e organizao de eventos nacionais e internacionais

biomassa.

9.Desenvolvimento do sistema de catalogao, divulgao e difuso

de informaes cientficas, tecnolgicas, econmico-comerciais,

scio-ambientais, estudos e programas de biomassa.

10.Desenvolvimento de estudos para a formao de uma rede de

laboratrios especializados em ensaios, pesquisas para estimulao

de credenciamento das indstrias brasileiras.

11.Interao com rgos responsveis pelos recursos energticos

com vistas a difuso de dados sobre aproveitamentos de biomassa.

12.Desenvolvimento cientfico e tecnolgico e promoo de

intercmbio de informaes com instituies no Brasil e no exterior.

13.Colaborao com instituies pblicas e privadas, agentes

financeiros e demais interessados com relao pesquisa, estudos

e projetos de biomassa.

14.Fornecimento de subsdios para a formulao e execuo das

polticas energticas nacionais aproveitamento florestal, industrial e

agroindustrial.

15.Estudos e projetos sobre o uso de Mecanismos de Desenvolvimento

Limpo(MDL) de gerao de energia, de Certificados de Crdito de

Carbono(CRCs), dos benefcios da Conta de Consumo de

Combustveis(CCC).

Celso Marcelo de Oliveira. Presidente da Associao Brasileira das Indstrias de

Biomassa e Energia Renovvel Especializao em Bioenergia e Biomassa pela

Faculdade de Cincias e Tecnologia da Universidade Lisboa Portugal. Autor das

Obras Energia Renovvel, Wood Pellets Brasil, Biomassa e Bioenergia e Tecnologia

Biomassa Energtica. Diretor Executivo da Brasil Biomassa e Energia Renovvel e

da European Energy Srl e do Instituto Brasileiro Biomassa e Pellets.

CONSELHO DIRETOR ABIB 2014-2018

PRESIDENTE CELSO MARCELO DE OLIVEIRA

DIRETOR DA BRASIL BIOMASSA E ENERGIA RENOVVEL

VICE PRESIDENTE BIOMASSA E PELLETS JORDANO BUSATTO MILANI

DIRETOR BR BIOMASSA LTDA

VICE PRESIDENTE FLORESTAL E MADEIRA MARCOS STOLF

DIRETOR STOLFIBER FIBRA E NEGCIOS

VICE PRESIDENTEINTERNACIONAL THIAGO ANDRADE- EUROPA

DIRETOR DA WOOD PELLET SERVICES

VICE PRESIDENTE SUSTENTABILIDADE AMBIENTAL GERSON SAMPAIO

DIRETOR DA TEKNERGIA

SECRETARIA GERAL E DIRETORIA JURDICA MARIA DENISE MARTINS

EMPRESA MDM CONSULTORES

DIRETORIA EXECUTIVA EM BIOENERGIA DIRETOR NORIVAL RICO FILHO

DIRETOR BEIJA FLOR AGROENERGIA LTDA

DIRETORIA EXECUTIVA EM PROJETOS SUSTENTVEIS DIRETOR JOS

SOARES SOBRINHO EMEG BRASIL

DIRETORIA EXECUTIVA EM DESENVOLVIMENTO CARLOS ALBERTO

DALPRAT DIRETOR MATRA BRASIL

DIRETORIA EXECUTIVA EM PRESERVAO AMBIENTAL DIRETOR

ANTONIO CARLOS MONTEIRO DE BARROS

DIRETORIA EXECUTIVA PROJETOS DE RESDUOS DIRETOR JOS CARLOS

SOTTO MAIOR ECO PRODUCTS

DIRETORIA EXECUTIVA NEGCIOS INTERNACIONAIS DIRETOR PEDRO

MARTINS DE AZEVEDO CARBOEX

DIRETORIA EXECUTIVA EM PROJETOS BIOMASSA E PELLETS DIRETOR

JOS SCHARTNER BRAZIL PELLET

PRODUTORES DE PELLETS NO BRASIL

1. PelletBraz Porto Feliz/SP 18.750

2. Piomade Farroupilha/RS 3.750

3. Koala Energy Rio Negrinho/SC 22.500

4. Briquepar Telemaco Borba/PR 30.000

5. BR Biomassa Maring/PR 22.500

6. Ecopell Itaju/SP 22.500

7. Ecoxpellets Bandeirantes/PR 37.500

8. EcoPellets So Jos dos Campos/SP 1.125

9. Lnea Paran Sengs/PR 30.000

10. Copellets Palmital/SP 7.500

11. Timber S.A. Pin/PR 30.000

12. Wood Tradeland Tunas/PR 12.000

13.Biopellets Brasil Lins/So Paulo 72.000

14. Araupel Quedas Igua/PR 12.000

15. Tanac Montenegro/RS 400.000 (em desenvolvimento)

16. Biofogo Energia Renovvel Ressaquinha/MG 12.000

17. Tibagi Pellets Paran 25.000

18. Copacol Pellets Bagao de Cana Paran 36.000

19. Resisul Florestal Itapeva/SP 36.000

20. Chamape Pellets Valr do Ouro/RS 36.000

INTERNACIONAL

B O B C L E AVES

Recently, an energy insider who has been in

the business a long time asked me the

following question: With all the recent

development in the industry, can the trend

continue? I thought about it for a minute,

and reviewed the list we put together of all

the projects that came on line. It was a wide

spectrum of projects, from the 103-MW

Gainesville Renewable Energy Center to

EDFs twin 17.8-MW facilities in South

Carolina. These were South Carolinas first

biomass facilities, and Virginia, Wisconsin

and Georgia saw completion of first

facilities as well.

My answer to his first question was a little

nuanced. Industry growth wont continue at

the same pace every year for the

foreseeable future.

Thats just not realistic, nor is it

sustainable. However, there are several

indicators that support a long-term

biomass growth outlook:

Inconsistency of gas prices. During the

nationwide cold snap throughout January,

the value of biomass has really come into

focus in places like New England. While

energy prices skyrocketed due to high

demand, fossil fuels werent able to keep

up.

Biomass power became an essential

resource, and without it, prices would have

spiked even higher.

Biomass will never be the primary energy

source for any region of the country, but

the polar vortex showed us that it is a

reliable backup plan during severe

weather.

A new emphasis on forestry and

better forest maintenance. The USDA

and U.S. Forest Service are increasingly

acknowledging the significant benefits

ofand even urgent need for

consistent and thorough forest

maintenance. Of course, forest

maintenance comes with a byproduct,

forest trimmings, that must be disposed

of somehow. Luckily, biomass offers a

productive outlet for these materials.

Rather than open burning or landfilling

them, trimmings can be used to

produce clean energy.

Add to this the mountains of research

that have come out recently on the

benefits of forest maintenance. For

instance, University of California,

Berkeley, forester Bill Stewart found

that forest management, despite its

removal of carbon stocks from a forest,

does nothing to reduce that forests

overall carbon content over the long

term.

Findings like this support a large-scale

commitment to improved forestry,

which can only benefit the biomass

industry.

BIOMASS POWER ASSOCIATION

BIOMASS GROWTH: WILL THE TREND HOLD?


BOB CLEAVES

Bob Cleaves is President and CEO of

Portland, Maine-based Biomass Power

Association.

Founded in 1999, BPA is the nation's

leading voice for biomass as a means for

generating electricity, representing over

2,000 MW of installed capacity. BPA

members include sawmills, paper

companies, and independent power

producers, doing business in over 20

states and contributing nearly $1 billion

to the national economy. BPA maintains

an active presence in Washington, and

concentrates on federal tax and energy

policy to promote the use of woody

biomass for electricity use.

Bob served as a federal prosecutor

before entering private law practice. He

represented the pulp and paper industry

before leaving law to focus on renewable

energy. For many years, he managed the

nation's largest renewable energy credit

portfolio. Bob is active in the renewable

energy community in Maine as well as

across the country. He currently serves

on the Board of the New England Clean

Energy Council, Maine Audubon, and

Greater Portland Landmarks.

Biomass sustainability and benefits are

consistently reinforced by science.

After beginning a conversion project of four

facilities in Northern Canada from coal to

biomass, Ontario Power Generation

conducted a study with the Pembina Institute

to determine if biomass sourced from

Ontarios forests would be renewable; to

better understand the greenhouse gas (GHG)

reduction benefits of biomass; and to

estimate the socioeconomic benefits that

would result from electricity production from

biomass.

What they found was remarkable: When

practicing sustainable forestry, the carbon

supply of the forest was not reduced, even

when factoring in the use of 2 million tons of

wood pellets each year for biomass.

Beyond sustainability, biomass was found to

be a major boon to reducing GHG emissions.


Biomass Power Association is the nation's leading organization working to expand

and advance the use of clean, renewable biomass power. Led by President and CEO

Bob Cleaves, the Association represents 80 biomass power plants in 20 states

across the U.S. Currently, the biomass power industry reduces carbon emissions by

more than 30 million tons each year and provides 14,000 jobs nationwide, many of

which are in rural areas.

BPA is a member-driven organization with the goal of increasing the use of biomass

power and creating new jobs and opportunities in the biomass industry. BPA

educates policymakers at the state and federal level about the benefits of biomass

and provides regular briefings and research to keep members fully informed about

public policy impacting the biomass industry. Members include local owners and

operators of existing biomass facilities, suppliers, plant developers and others.

BPA is actively involved in the legislative process and supports policies that

increase the use of biomass power and other renewable energy sources in

America's energy portfolio. As policymakers at every level explore ways to lower

greenhouse gases and reduce America's dependence on foreign oil, BPA is the

leading advocate for a strong commitment to clean, renewable biomass energy.

U. S. INDUSTRIAL PELLET

New Infographic from Dogwood Alliance Shows How Southern US Forests Are Fueling Climate Change

Production, export of wood pellets to fuel European demand projected to reach 35 million tons by 2020 is impacting southern US

forests, says Dogwood Alliance, notes region has over 20 wood pellet mills with another 25 proposed or under development A new

infographic from Asheville, North Carolina-based environmental non-profit Dogwood Alliance clearly illustrates how the forests of the

Southern US are being logged at an increasing rate to fuel European electricity demand and further increasing carbon emissions.

The world's attention is focused on Paris for the COP-21 climate treaty negotiations, where international negotiators are attempting to

hammer out a treaty to address the rapidly growing threat of climate change. It is vital that negotiators reevaluate the role of forests and

upgrade the thinking to 21st century ideals especially when it comes to the forests of the Southern US. "Although the forests of the

Southern United States are an important component of the fight against climate change, they are increasingly being logged to power

Europe, further exacerbating the climate crisis," said Adam Macon, Campaign Director at Dogwood Alliance. "This new infographic

clearly illustrates how this is happening and why society need to change course."

The Southern US is the leading exporter of wood pellets for electricity globally. Projections of continued growth in Western Europe led by

the UK - from 5 million tons in 2015 to over 35 million tons in 2020 - are staggering. (1) In addition to impacting forests which are the

planet's best defense against climate change, increased logging for this industry leads to loss of important wildlife habitat,

degradation of water quality, and negative health and economic impacts on local communities. (2)

U. S. INDUSTRIAL PELLET

Ranging from Virginia to Louisiana, there has been a massive growth in the wood pellet industry responding to growing demand from

European utilities. With over 20 existing wood pellet mills and another 25 in various stages of proposal and development, the

Southern US has become the largest wood pellet export region in the world. (3) Companies like Enviva are continuing to propose and

build new facilities on a regular basis. (4)

Much of the demand is being driven by the United Kingdom and its principle importing utility Drax, while other countries have chosen

to meet European carbon emission reduction goals by investing in greater onshore and offshore wind and solar. (5) A recent report

from the UK Department of Energy and Climate Change has cast a doubt over the true climate benefits of burning wood for electricity.

(6)

Sources:

(1) "The Wood Pellet Market" by Poyry posted on World Wide Recyling website. Last retrieved on December 9, 2015.

(2) "Biomass Supply and Carbon Accounting for Southeastern Forests," by the Biomass Energy Resource Center, Forest Guild, and

Spatial Informatics Group. Published in February 2012.

(3) "Pellet Plants," by Biomass Magazine. Last retrieved on December 9, 2015.

(4) "Wood Pellet Domes Will Change Wilmington Skyline," by Gareth McGrath. Published August 10, 2014 in the Wilmington Star-

News.

(5) "How world's biggest green power plant is actually increasing greenhouse gas emissions and Britain's energy bill," by David

Rose. Published June 6, 2015 in the Daily Mail.

(6) "Biomass Report Adds to the Debate on Power Station Subsidies," by Pilita Clark. Published July 23, 2014 in the Financial

Times.

EUBIA PELLETS FOR EUROPE

PELLETS FOR EUROPE EUBIA

ANALYSIS OF THE TECHNICAL OBSTACLES RELATED TO THE

PRODUCTION AND UTILISATION OF FUEL PELLETS MADE FROM

AGRICULTURAL RESIDUESThis document aims at giving an overview of the technical problems related to the production and utilisation of fuel pellets made

from agricultural residues. On the basis of the guidelines expressed in the technical annex, the EUBIA has gathered and analysed

information with regard to the obstacles related to the transformation of agricultural residues (mainly straw) into fuel pellets, and

the problems related to the "agri-pellets" utilisation. In addition to these two parts, other critical factors (availability of raw

materials, production costs, etc) are emphasized for their importance regarding a successful development of the agri-pellets

market.

With the possible shortage of woody raw materials for pellet

production in countries such as Sweden and Denmark, and

considering the low forestry residues potential in southern European

countries, agricultural residues could be largely used in the future for

fuel pellets manufacturing.

It is therefore of great importance to study the characteristics of this

new (and diverse) category of raw material, paying special attention

to the problems that they may trigger both at production and

utilisation level. The information gathered in this report points out

several problems affecting agripellets (with a special focus on straw

pellets) in comparison with wood pellets.

As far as production is concerned, straw can be

pelletised without major difficulty. The global energy

requirement for pelleting straw can generally be

considered lower to the one related to wood, because

straw is delivered at a moisture content (

All those problems not only depend on the fuel

characteristics, but also on the design of the

combustion equipment and the way it is

operated.

Actually, a typical feature agricultural residues in

comparison with wood residues is their higher

content in nitrogen (N), sulphur (S), chlorine (Cl)

and potassium (K), increased by the use of

fertilisers and pesticides /herbicides in

agriculture.

The presence of those elements leads to

relatively important emissions of NOx, SOx, and

HCl compared to wood pellets. In addition,

potassium (K) influence both particulates

emission and slagging (by lowering the softening

temperature of the fuel) of an increased ash

volume (5% for straw 0.5% for

sawdust).

Finally, a high chlorine (Cl) content result both in

corrosion problem on boilers surfaces and in

formation of dioxins. Those problems can be

partly overcome by a range of techniques,

ranging from agricultural practices (leaching of

the straw in the field) to combustion processes

(airstaging) and flue gas cleaning.


Finally, improvements could come from the fuel preparation stage, with the

addition of some specific anti-slagging agents (e.g. kaolin) or the mixing with

sawdust to present final characteristic more convenient with regard to

combustion and ash issues.

Finally, for a large scale use, in relation with the high ash content and the low

melting point, it has been stated that straw pellets could present better

results with grate combustion or fluidised bed systems.

Cofiring of agricultural residues with fossil fuels is also a very interesting

alternative, both technically and economically. The small scale market of

devices for straw pellets is still very limited, but some manufacturers already

propose multi-fuel grate boilers in the range of 10-60 kW. In all cases,

attention must be paid to the flue gas cleaning systems. Other critical factors

have been pointed out, such as the economic advantage for the building of a

new straw-fired plant (rather than a straw pellet-fired plant), the importance

of the reliability of supply and quality of straw as raw material, and the

logistics related issues concerning the development of the small scale

market.

As a conclusion, environmental impact as well as current state-of-the-art of

combustion technologies indicate that pellets made from agricultural

residues (and in general other ash-, N-, Kand Cl-rich fuels) should be used

primarily in large scale combustion plants equipped with sophisticated

combustion control systems and flue gas cleaning systems, whereas wood

pellets should be preferred for residential heating.

At a higher degree than for wood pellets, the main technical

challenges regarding agri-pellets are the production of a high quality

fuel, and technological improvement for small-scale combustion

devices. Assuming that economic aspects concerning the agri-pellets

energy option are favourable, the agri-pellet market for small-scale

use will develop only if equipment manufacturers are encouraged to

develop novel, safe and affordable combustion solutions.

Preamble: Why thinking about agri-pellets?

"Pellets for Europe" in the European context. The development of

renewable energy is a central aim of the European Commission's

energy policy. Several reasons stand for this: firstly, renewable energy

has an important role to play in reducing carbon dioxide (CO2)

emissions - a major Community objective. Secondly, increasing the

share of renewable energy in the energy balance enhances

sustainability. It also helps to improve the security of energy supply by

reducing the Community's growing dependence on imported energy

sources.

Finally, renewable energy sources are expected to be economically

competitive with conventional energy sources in the medium to long

term. Among the renewable energies, biomass fuels already play an

important role in several European countries (near 20 % in Sweden

and Finland). The European Commission's White Paper for a

Community Strategy sets out a strategy to double the share of

renewable energies in gross domestic energy consumption in the

European Union (from the present 6% to 12%) including a timetable

of actions to achieve this objective in the form of an Action Plan.

Densification and pelleting related advantages

Some practical problems are associated with the use of biomass

material as fuel, and in particular with the use of agricultural

residues.

Those problems are mainly related to the high bulk volume, which

results in high transportation costs and demands for large storage

capacities, and to the high moisture content which results in freezing

and blocking the in-plant transportation systems, as well as in

biological degradation.

In addition, variations in moisture content makes

difficult an optimal plant operation and process

control. All these problems may be overcome by

densification, which is compressing the material to

give it more uniform properties. The main advantages

of densified fuels, compared to non-densified ones are

the following :

An increased bulk density (from 80-150 to 600-700

kg/m3), resulting in lower transportation costs,

reduced storage volume and easier handling.

A lower moisture content (lower than 10%), favouring a

long conservation and less loss of product during

storage.

An increased energy density and more homogeneous

composition, resulting in better control possibilities

and thereby higher energy efficiency lower emissions

during combustion.

The major disadvantage is the somewhat high energy

cost for the pelleting process, increasing the price of

the end product. Densified products can be found as

briquettes or as pellets. The heating value, moisture

content and chemical characteristics are about the

same for both but the density and strength are

somewhat higher for pellets. The major difference is

the size (generally 6 to 12 mm, with a length 4 to 5

times the for pellets), making them easy to use in

fully automatic operation, from household appliances

to large scale combined heat and power (CHP) plants .

Why thinking of refined agricultural residues for energy

purposes?

The most important argument for using biomass for

energy purposes is that it is CO2 neutral and there fore

does not contribute to increasing the CO2 content in

the atmosphere, thereby resulting in an aggravation of

the greenhouse effect.


At the moment, fuel pellets are mainly made from

sawdust, wood chips and wood shavings. The market

has essentially expanded in Sweden, Denmark and

Austria, in relation with natural resources and political

reasons. Nowadays, the competition with the

particleboard industry and the current increased

demand for wood pellets, both on the residential market

and for large-scale use, may lead to a future lack of

sawdust and shavings.

For instance, in Sweden - the main European producer -,

wood pellets production capacity (1 Mio t) has reached

the national sawdust potential [s], and in Denmark the

shortage of national appropriate raw materials obliges

to import wood waste from North America and the Baltic

States [j, m].

If demand - and prices - continues to rise, other biomass

wastes than sawdust, wood chips and shavings will be

considered for pellet production.

Agricultural residues stand among those future new raw

materials. On the other hand, in southern European

countries, forest areas are far less important and forest

industry is consequently far less developed; in those

conditions, the question of the agricultural residues

potential may be tackled even more directly.


Agricultural residues refer to the portion of plant material that

remains after a crop has been harvested and separated. Primary

residues are those that are the result of farm-level activities; they

include items such as straw, stalks and leaves that are left over after

harvest.

Secondary residues are those that result from processing , such as

sugar beet pulps, cotton mill wastes, peanut shells, etc.

For most crops, and said roughly, primary residues are produced in

quantities approximately equal in weight to the crop production, and

are already used for different purposes (soil conservation, animal

feeding and litter, heating).

The amount of secondary residues varies widely depending on the

crop and processing methods used.

Characteristics of biomass raw materials

Diversity of agri-residues

Many materials originated by agriculture could be used for

production of densified biomass fuels:

straw, grain hull waste, sugar beet waste, tree pruning, fruit stones,

cacao waste, etc. A project at the Danish Technological Institute

testing some of these raw material is presently going on.

The aim is to find out what combinations of materials are best suited

for pellet production and combustion, with regards to sintering, ash

contents etc.

On the other hand, regulation BEK nr 638 (Denmark) defines

different biomass raw materials suitable for pellet production.

Some of them are straw, fruit stone, dry fruit waste, cork, grain,

cotton, malt and tobacco waste, with obviously, woody residues

(sawdust, shavings, wood chips and wood waste with 1% max.

glue),

The first problems which raise for each of those residues are

the quantity available, the quality and the collection mode.

Those aspects are studied more thoroughly in other

contributions.

In any case, it is necessary to have in mind that both physical

and chemical properties vary significantly within and between

the different biomass raw materials. Depending on the

application, these variations may be critical for the final

performance of the system. Physical properties, such as

moisture content, bulk density, particle size and distribution,

and mechanical strength are important for the choice of

processes and equipment .

Furthermore, chemical properties are of great importance for

the energy efficiency, environmental pollution and ash related

operating problems, as it will be underlined later.

Technical obstacles related to the agri-pellets utilisation. As

seen above, the pelleting process affects essentially the

physical properties: straw bulk density increases from 130

to 600 kg/m3 when pelletised. The only chemical parameter

strongly impacted by the pelleting process is the mean water

content and its distribution, which is more homogeneous.

Element content does not change significantly during the

process, hence chemical composition of raw materials

impacts directly on the quality of the combustion process.

Characteristics of agri-pellets compared to wood pellets.

The following data (table below) show that commonly used

biomass fuels are a relatively homogeneous group with

respect to heating value and major elemental composition

(C, H, O). However, the content of moisture, nitrogen (N),

sulphur (S), chlorine (Cl) and ash vary greatly as does the

ash composition. Wood chips and sawdust are by-products

of the forestry and wood industry, and are therefore

regarded as wastes. But an important characteristic of this

sort of waste, compared to other ones, is its relatively high

"purity". Wood pellets are clean and homogeneous, with a

low content of mineral nutrients. In contrast, chopped

logging residues and agricultural residues (wheat straw in

the table) present a high content in mineral nutrient.


Co-firing straw in a pulverised coal boiler is economically

attractive compared to the building of a dedicated straw-

fired plant. Regarding process techniques, a share of 10

% straw (up to 20% in some cases) for co-combustion

seems reasonable. In order to avoid corrosion and

fouling, temperature is kept below 545C.

However, high K and Cl content impedes utilisation of fly

ash, deactivates the de-NOx catalyst in flue gas cleaning

system and may also lead to increased deposit formation.

Generally, ash from biomass firing may be used as

fertilisers due to its high potassium content, while coal

ash is often used in cement production.

Combined firing of coal and straw can give an ash rich in

K, Cl, and C which can neither be used in cement industry

nor be redistributed within the fields. The only known

large-scale use of straw pellets stands precisely in that

category.

The Amager power plant was an old coal-fired power plant

with an energy output of 136 MW. It has been converted

to be fired with straw pellets exclusively, but the system is

also supported with an oil firing system. 130,000 tons of

straw pellets are expected to be burnt yearly. Among the

reasons for this conversion, stands the fact that the coal-

fired plant was not equipped with a flue gas

desulphurisation (FGD) system.

Biomass combustion, by its natural lower S-content than

coal, reduces SOx emissions and allowed not to install

such equipment. The option for using straw pellets

(instead of straw bales) is that the grinding equipment,

for pulverising the coal before combustion, could be re-

used for the densified straw.


In contrast, a straw bales feeding system would have meant

new investments for handling, feeding and burning the fuel. In

relation with the use of straw, corrosion had to be tackled, and

the maximum steam temperature has been reduced from

540C to 480C.

Slagging problems are also expected, but it is difficult to

assess this point because, at the moment, the plant is still in

the optimisation phase: only a few thousand tons of pellets

have been burnt, and oil is providing a large part of the energy.

Straw pellets are produced in the pellet plant in Kge (south of

Copenhagen) which has started its production few months

ago. On a yearly basis the plant will produce the necessary

130,000 tonnes of straw pellets which will be transported on

ships to the Amager plant.

Kge pellet plant will also produce 180,000 tonnes of wood

pellets for the new and advanced Avedre plant.

For its co-utilisation with coal, biomass generally needs to be

reduced in size. The degree of size reduction required

depends on the nature of the biomass and the nature of the

combustion technology.

A major problem highlighted in a number of co-firing trials and

demonstrations has been the lack of reliability of feed

preparation and handling systems currently available when

straw was not densified.

From that point of view, straw pellets have an advantage as

they can use the same grinding and feeding equipment.

To sum up, the nutrient content of pellets determines the optimal final

use: if wood pellets are suitable for a combustion in every type of

application (from small scale appliances to large scale power plants),

straw pellets appear more suitable for a use in large combustion plants

(grate, fluidised bed or pulverised combustors) with flue gas purification

and increased possibilities for returning the ash to the forest. As pointed

out by the IEA, emission reduction measures for biomass combustion are

available for all harmful emission components; whether the emission

reduction measures are implemented or not is merely a question of

emission limits and cost-effectiveness.

Though scale-effects ensure that large installations (such as coal power

plants) can be equipped with flue gas cleaning more economically, local

availability of the biomass fuel and transportation costs will usually be a

limiting factor for size.

Reliability of the raw material. A significant barrier to the development of

biomass fuels might be the supply reliability and quality of the raw

material, and the consequent quality of densified fuels. Indeed, one has

to be very prudent when opting for straw as a fuel (densified or not)

should assess thoroughly the availability of straw, and its variability. It

should be noted that straw yields vary greatly with varieties, soil, climatic

conditions and fertilising. In addition this last aspect triggers problem

on the variability of quality. Straw quantities can vary also considerably

by growing season, with markedly lower production in abnormally dry

years.

The last summers drought illustrates it perfectly, when very large

quantities of straw were required by cattle breeders to feed their

livestock. As a conclusion, one cannot hardly rely on regular average

straw surplus for energy purpose. Therefore, energy plant should not be

over-dimensioned, and, in any case, a support system must be foreseen.

Conclusions.

The agricultural sector can represent a valuable

source of dry biomass, possibly available for fuel

valorisation. The importance of this source varies

greatly from a region to another, and the amount of

residues depends on several factors: crops

varieties, cultivation mode, local soil and climate

conditions, geographical dispersion, access

possibilities, etc.

Therefore the first challenge would be to study the

quality and real availability of the residues and also

to examine the economic feasibility for collecting

them.

Concerning straw pellet production, only a limited

experience has been acquired until now. Yet,

processes seem quite well controlled. The main

critical factors regard the supply of quality raw

material (without many contaminants) the friability

of the final product.

In comparison with wood, agricultural residues

present high ash-, N-, K- and Cl-content.

Consequent problems are higher related

emissions, deposit formation (slagging and

fouling) and corrosion. Many techniques are

currently used and under improvement stage to

overcome the inherent drawbacks of straw

composition. Those technique may consist in

diverse action level:

agricultural practices, fuel preparation,

combustion technologies (grate, fluidised bed and

pulverised fuel systems), flue gas cleaning systems

and the advantageous possibility of co-combustion

of straw pellets with coal for instance.



For technological and economical reasons, some of these techniques are also available in large scale plants, and that is why the

use of straw pellets is currently more developed in that field. Standards for wood pellets are currently under development at the

CEN, but a special standard for straw could be foreseen in connection with its particularly high content in N, Cl and S and the

specific use it would best suit (i.e. mainly large scale converted energy plants). In any case, the use of straw pellets in the

residential heating sector cannot be fully recommended at present, because small-scale pellet furnaces are not specially

designed for this kind of fuel.

From that point of view, only an increased R&D effort could contribute to the development of the agripellet market. Meanwhile,

the most reasonable hypothesis concerning pellets use is that wood pellets (with low mineral content) and would suit best a

combustion in small heating devices, whereas agri-pellets (with high mineral content and slagging tendency) would best fit in

large combustion plants with flue gas purification and possibilities for returning the ash to the forest.

Looking ahead, we see industrial wood pellets

playing a large role in mitigating climate change

both here at home and around the world.

The U.S. stands ready to continue to provide a

steady, sustainable supply to meet this growing

demand.

Look across the horizon for the industrial-grade

wood pellet market, and you will see many

positive developments for the industry.

Not only is the industry achieving policy

certainty and government support for biomass

across the European Union, but also new

markets are beginning to emerge in Asia.

There are also opportunities opening up here at

home in the U.S., and within the robust

residential heat market in Europe.

The southeastern U.S. has spent the past

decade developing the necessary infrastructure

and supply chain to bring wood pellets to the

world.

Over the past several years, the U.S. has

become the No. 1 exporter of wood pellets to

Europe, exporting over 2.7 million tons of wood

pellets.

Industrial-grade wood pellets in the

U.S. are harvested from forest

products residues, such as sawdust,

tree tops and limbs, and other fiber

unusable for saw logs.

Providing a market for this low-value

fiber keeps the forest healthy by

removing debris that would otherwise

be left to rot or burn, and by allowing

more space for replanting.

This industry also gives a small

financial boost to the forest products

market overall, which encourages

private landowners to keep their land

well-managed and forested, rather

than converting to other uses such as

agriculture or commercial

development.

All this results in a product that is

good for the forest, good for the

economy and good for the

environment.

Biomass is currently the only

renewable energy than can provide

low-carbon, low-cost power that can

balance the energy grid.

.

US PELLETS AROUND THE GLOBE

SETH GINTHER

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

U.S. INDUSTRIAL PELLET ASSOCIATION

U. S. INDUSTRIAL PELLET ASSOCIATION

S E T H G I N T HER

Business Lawyer specializing in

Renewable Energy, M&A, Private

Equity, and General Corporate Law

University of Richmond School of

Law

Executive Director of USIPA, Seth

represents the interests of the US

based industrial pellet industry

domestically and internationallly

(Europe and Asia) with a focus on

issues such as specifications,

certifications, sustainability,

uniformity of contracts, shipping and

other exporting issues such as port

infrastructure and transportation.

In the energy area, Seth routinely

represents renewable energy

businesses in project finance,

negotiating and drafting power

purchase agreements,

recapitalizations, mergers and

acquisitions and multi-state and

federal legislative and regulatory

matters as they relate to renewable

energy.

TThe European Union is leading the world in reducing carbon

emissions and mitigating climate change, and the wood pellet

industry is poised and ready to play a large role in these efforts. As

EU member states analyze their current energy portfolios, many are

seeing the benefits of using woody biomass to reach their

renewable energy goals.

he demand for industrial wood pellets for biomass conversions has

been growing steadily in the U.K., Netherlands, Belgium and

Denmark.

There are dozens of projects in the supply chain, each of which will

require a continuous and ever-increasing wood pellet supply.

The market in Asia is also promising. South Korea will need to rely

heavily on imports for wood pellet supply because of the lack of

domestic forest resources. It is estimated that 75 to 80 percent of

its supply will need to be imported by 2020.

Japan also has made commitments to reducing the use of fossil

fuels and has ramped up both importation and domestic

production of wood pellets. The residential heat market in Western

Europe will also offer some trading opportunities for producers, as

Europe has predicted that its domestic supply will not be able to

meet demand in the coming years.

Additionally, with the recent commitment from President Obama to

reduce carbon emissions 30 percent by 2030, we expect to see

growth in the biomass market domestically as well.

As we look out across the market place, we see industrial wood

pellets playing a large role in mitigating climate change both here

at home and around the world, and the U.S. stands ready to

continue to provide a steady, sustainable supply to meet this

growing demand.


U.S. Industrial Pellet Association (USIPA) is a not for profit trade organization that promotes safety and

sustainability practices within the US industrial-grade pellet industry, as well as the growth of the overall

bioenergy market. USIPA was founded in February 2011 by several industry leaders, including Enviva LP, Fram

Renewable Fuels, ecoFUELS, Georgia Biomass, Green Circle, and the Westervelt.


Miami Advice: The Hottest Topics at USIPAs 4th Annual Exporting Pellets

Conference. The U.S. Industrial Pellet Associations 4th Annual Exporting

Pellets conference wrapped on Friday after three consecutive sweltering

days that drove evening receptions inside, making the Fontainebleaus

stunning ocean views available only to those willing to withstand the heat.

Few did.

1. The debate over the future size of the global pellet market is ongoing

and increasingly contentious. Without question, the takeaway from the

day-one panel was that almost universally, the European utilities feel that

near- and long-term market projections are overblown. The opening

panels most vocal critic of recent market forecasts was Draxs Matthew

Rivers, who called a recent report authored by RISI economist Seth Walker

a forecast without foundation. Walkers forecast calls for a global pellet

market in 2024 of 50 million tons.

Rivers was candid about his frustration with the report and suggested that

these kinds of rosy forecasts lead to economic inefficiency with projects

entering the development funnel that will likely never make it to

groundbreaking. Rivers was also candid about his belief that continued

discussion of a rapidly growing pellet market did more harm than good

drawing more and more nongovernmental organizations into the debate.

Interestingly, the events keynote, Nigel Adams, a member of parliament

from Selby reported that over 60 percent of British citizens support the

notion of biomass repowering, and only 7 percent reporting opposition.

I asked Rivers to comment on what I thought was a

discrepancy, and he replied that the size of the

opposition had little to do with their ability to cause the

industry problems. That said, as a someone who

spends time covering the American biofuels space, I

stand by my notion that 7 percent opposition rates are

enviable. RISIs Seth Walker would have his opportunity

to retort before the conference was over. Walker was

the first speaker on the day 2 New Markets

Roundtable and opened his remarks by defending his

market forecast and suggesting that actually his 50

million tons number was among the more conservative

market forecasts he had seen.

The discrepancy between the various forecasts was the

conferences biggest networking break talker, and

Rivers bearish comments certainly got producers

talking. That said, the most conservative forecast

offered at the event (by Rivers and Hawkins Wrights

John Bingham) suggest the industry will continue to

enjoy solid growth and is likely to grow to over 30 to 32

million tons per annum. Walker stood his ground and a

Poyry graph showed up later in the event that aligned

with Walkers 50 million-ton forecast.

2. Europeans continue to wonder about the overall

sustainability of North American forestry. The ongoing debate

about sustainability finished a close second to debates about

market projections. Time after time European speakers

expressed that European policy makers, thought leaders,

editorial teams and citizens were wary of a biomass solution

that could lead to deforestation, lack of biodiversity, water

quality issues and other environmental maladies.

At every turn, those closest to the North American forest

complex pointed to a century-long tradition of serving forest

products markets while maintaining and even increasing forest

inventories.

This, I think, is the industrys most interesting conversation

because of the many variables that go into the discussion.

There are facets of the conversation that hinge on the

differences between European and North American notions of

land ownership; discussions about why forests are grown in the

first place; how strong markets correlate with increased

reinvestment in forests; the relative value offered to the

forestry segment by the growing pellet market (pellet producers

cant compete with pulp and paper buyers on price); and finally

I think it is fair to say that the incredible size of the resource is

lost on most European citizens.

Wikipedia offers that Canada and the U.S. have forested areas

of roughly 3 million square kilometers each. The closest

European country to those incredible numbers? Sweden, at

one-tenth that size. The vastness of the North American forest

resource boggles the European mind. While forest landowners

welcome a new market for lower-value pulpwood, they find

assertions that demand from pellet markets will place an

unmanageable burden on forests dubious to say the least.

Finally, it is clear that while larger timber owners like TIMOs

and REITs are prepared to invest in certification and annual

audits, landowners with smaller tracts see these as an

expensive confirmation of practices they are already bound to

federal and state laws as well as their own interests.


3. The South Korean market is here and growing. The

conference was barely five minutes old before South Korea got

its first mention. Seth Ginther suggested there were some tired

eyes in the audience as a number of the attendees had spent

the previous week in South Korea for the Biomass Pellets Trade

& Power conference. South Korean generators have opted for

co-firing instead of the conversions that are being pursued in

the United Kingdom and deliveries are showing strong growth

over the last two quarters. There was a great graph shared with

attendees that showed the classic hockey-stick moment that

the industry expected has arrived. Once published on the USIPA

conference website Ill circle back and link to it. This new

market is not without challenges, nor competitors. So far, the

demand is being satisfied by producers in the region including

pellet producers in Vietnam. FutureMetrics economics Bill

Strauss advised caution and reported that South Korean

generators are ruthless on price. Still, other panelists

suggested that South Korean demand buoyed summertime

pellet prices. Eve3n RWEs Henry Pease, who shares Rivers

more measured market attitudes said, It is now a living

breathing market. Finally, South Korean pellet handling

infrastructure is nonexistent and those that attended that

South Korean conference reported seeing pellet deliveries

sitting quayside covered only by a simple tarp.

4. The line between the heating market and power market is

beginning to blur. Conference attendees universally swooned

over the heating market,and I expect interest from Ginthers

members to continue to grow over the next year. The heating

market is subsidy independent a catch phrase introduced

into the conference lexicon by Ginther and echoed throughout

the venue. Eckmans Arnold Dale reported that the heating

market for pellets is growing at a rate of nearly 1.5 million tons

per annum. Interestingly, Dale opined that both Germany and

Austria were likely to become net pellet importers within five

years. The quality requirements required for producers to serve

this market are certainly steeper than the quality required by

power buyers. 60 percent of the pellets purchased by European

customers buying pellets to produce heat are ENplus certified

and interest in ENplus certification by North American

producers offered the conferences second hockey stick with

640,000 tons of production capacity now ENplus certified.

One might think that there is no way that

using wood pellets for fuel in a power plant

can compete with fossil fuels.

That would be true if the cost of the fuel were

the only input to the total cost of generation.

If only fuel cost mattered, utility-scale wind

and solar power would be free, and nuclear

power would be cheap.

There are four key components to the

equation that calculates the total cost of

generation: repayment of the capital cost to

build the plant, the fixed and variable

operation and maintenance (O&M) costs, the

fuel cost, and the plants capacity factor.

For nuclear plants, there is a fifth

component: decommissioning costs. The

capacity factor is a ratio of how much power

the plant actually generates versus what it

could generate if it ran at 100 percent output

every day of the year.

Capacity factor matters because the cost of

each megawatt-hour generated has to

contain a portion of the repayment of the

capital cost. Lower capacity factors, such as

those for wind and solar, put a higher capital

cost repayment burden on each megawatt-

hour. Conversion of a pulverized coal plant

to a pulverized wood pellet plant is

relatively straightforward. Coal plants grind

the coal into dust and then pneumatically

transport that dust to wall-mounted burners

in the boiler.

The coal dust combusts very rapidly;

almost like a liquid fuel. Grinding pellets

into dust and using them in essentially

the same hardware has been proven to

be technically feasible. For example,

Englands largest power plant has

converted two of its six 650-MW boilers

to use wood pellet fuel instead of coal.

That plant is generating reliably and just

as many megawatts are being generated

from pellet fuel as from coal.

The U.S. has 428 pulverized coal power

plants larger than 50 MW, typically aged.

For those plants to keep running, most

will have to upgrade pollution control

systems to meet sulfur, mercury and NOx

emissions limits.

The good news is that all of those older

plants are fully paid for. That means that

the initial capital cost component of the

total cost equation can be ignored. The

amortized capital cost is by far the

largest contributor to the total cost of

generation.

Assuming that plants older than 35 years

are fully paid for, even with pellet fuel

2.9 times more expensive per million Btu

than coal, a converted coal plant

generating power with pellets creates

electricity at a rate that is less than one-

third of a cent more expensive per

kilowatt-hour than natural gas.

W I L LIAN S T R AU S

Use of fossil fuels is driving a rapid

increase in the concentrations of

CO2 in the atmosphere and oceans.

The combustion of coal, petroleum

products and natural gas, as well as

land use changes are, in a matter of

a few centuries, releasing carbon

that was captured over hundreds of

millions of years. There is

overwhelming consensus that if we

are to mitigate the impacts of

increasing CO2 concentrations, we

need to change how we create

energy. But there is also fear that in

doing so we will inhibit economic

growth and harm business.

There is a simple and ready-to-

deploy way of mitigating carbon from

power generation that is good for

growth and business. It is by

converting older coal power plants

to wood pellets. The cost of power

from the converted plants is about

the same as power generated from

natural gas, and the strategy results

in creating, rather than destroying,

jobs. As a bonus, the strategy also

provides a motivation to sustain and

expand our working forests.

FUTUREMETRICS

THE MANY BENEFITS OF REPLACING COAL

WITH WOOD PELLET FUEL

WILLIAM STRAUSS

FUTUREMETRICS

Electricity generated from pellets in converted coal plants is almost the same cost as electricity generated from natural gas, by far

the cheapest way to make new, low-carbon power. Not only does this strategy provide new low-cost, low-carbon capacity, it also has

a very positive impact on job creation. It takes 2,540 jobs to provision a 500-MW coal plant with coal. To provision the same-sized

power plant with pellet fuel takes 3,480 jobs.

Long-term demand for sustainable refined pellet fuel will motivate the preservation of existing working forests. It will provide a

strong market signal for investment in improving forest management and expanding the stock of trees in our forested lands. This is a

strategy for decarbonization of the power sector that does not increase the cost of power, and actually adds jobs. It also incentivizes

the expansion of our working forests, which will increase the amount of carbon sequestered. All of the fears about economic harm

that typically paralyze the political process are missing. Our policymakers need to know that there is a way to be proactive on carbon

without raising power rates and creating jobs.

Drax Power Energy

7.5 million tons per year by

2016-17.

FUTUREMETRICS

Eggborough

5 to 6.5 million tons

per year by 2016-17.

AVEBIOM ESPANHA

CADA VEZ SOMOS MS!

JAVIER DIAZ GONZLEZ

AVEBIOMTambin constituy un autntico reto organizar el I Congreso Internacional de

Bioenerga. El gran esfuerzo realizado para atraer a 72 ponentes venidos de

todo el mundo encontr la recompensa del enorme inters demostrado por

los ms de 400 asistentes.

Los expertos conferenciantes compartieron con ellos los ltimos y ms

avanzados conocimientos y experiencias en bioenerga convirtiendo este

momento en el autntico germen del desarrollo del aprovechamiento

energtico de la biomasa en Espaa.

Los objetivos permanecen, y tambin la ilusin. El 22 de septiembre

inauguramos la 10 edicin de la feria y el congreso de los profesionales con

unos objetivos que apenas han variado desde que comenzamos: seguiremos

uniendo oferta y demanda en la feria y poniendo la informacin ms

actualizada y las tecnologas ms punteras al alcance de los profesionales en

el congreso.

Nuestro equipo mantiene la ilusin y toda la determinacin de construir

sector y de colocar a la biomasa en el relevante lugar que se merece como

fuente de energa renovable, noble y limpia, garante de soberana energtica

al ser producida, transformada y consumida en nuestro pas; y que crea

empleo y valor aadido en nuestro entorno cercano.

Diez aos despus, es evidente que cada da somos ms los que

participamos en el crculo virtuoso de conseguir rebajar nuestra dependencia

energtica potenciando el uso de nuestros recursos, como la biomasa,

alejndonos de los combustibles fsiles como el gas o el petrleo, que llegan

de lugares lejanos y dejan pocas divisas y mucha contaminacin. Por todo

esto, me siento muy orgulloso de todo lo hecho y de todas las personas que,

de una u otra forma, han contribuido con su trabajo y su consejo a llegar a

donde hoy estamos en el sector de la biomasa.

Cada da, ms ciudadanos de nuestro pas tienen

alguna vinculacin con la biomasa: ya sea porque

han instalado una estufa en su casa o se han

conectado a un red de calefaccin distribuida; o

porque en la industria donde trabajan se genera

energa con biomasa, o han encontrado empleo en

una de las plantas de pellets que salpican la

geografa espaola, en una fbrica de calderas o

en una empresa instaladora de equipos

rase una vez hace ms de 10 aos Once aos

atrs, unos locos de la bioenerga pusimos en

comn nuestras enormas ganas de trabajar y una

gran ilusin que dieron como fruto el nacimiento

del primer evento relacionado con la biomasa y el

sector forestal de Espaa. Junto con Antonio

Gonzalo, su primer director, y con Jorge Herrero,

director desde la segunda edicin, hemos

conseguido ao tras ao reunir en torno a la feria

a todos los interesados en conocer o seguir

aprendiendo sobre biomasa, logrando que desde

el primer ao nunca hayamos retrocedido ni en

nmero de expositores, ni en visitantes.Javier Daz Gonzlez, Presidente de AVEBIOM

PRODUCIR Y CONSUMIR EN MODO LOCAL

ANA SANCHO BIOENERGY INTERNATIONALLa filosofa de producir y consumir localmente impregna las decisiones de Diego; por este motivo Ebinor est colaborando con la

Universidad de La Rioja para encontrar soluciones de valorizacin energtica para el sarmiento, un recurso leoso muy

abundante en la regin vitivincola pero con una logstica de transporte bastante costosa.

A da de hoy, los viticultores tienen dos opciones para deshacerse de los sarmientos: triturar y mezclar con la tierra de forma

mecanizada o recoger y quemarlos. Recoger, almacenar y transportarlos a una planta de valorizacin resulta caro -puede llegar a

15-20 /t-; ah est el reto: cmo aprovechar un recurso local de manera econmica.

La fbrica de pellets y centro logstico de astilla y viruta de madera de

Ebinor comienza a producir al 100% en 2015 desde la localidad

riojana de Sots; una ubicacin estratgica para suministrar a

importantes ciudades de la franja septentrional de la Pennsula.

Producir 10.000 t/ao de pellets en una primera fase y llegar a

20.000 t/ao en 2016, segn los planes de la empresa,

proporcionando un servicio gil y econmico a un mercado local. Por

eso, explica Diego Rodrguez, ingeniero y director de la planta, la idea

es suministrar, sobre todo, producto a granel a consumidor final en

ciudades situadas a menos de 100 km como Logroo, Pamplona,

Soria, Vitoria o Burgos. En cuanto a la astilla, esperan comercializar

alrededor de 2000 t/ao de G30 para uso trmico en calderas.

De momento cuentan con certificado ENplus como

distribuidores de pellets, pero en cuanto estn

produciendo de forma continua, comenzarn los trmites

para certificarse tambin como productores.

Diego nos muestra las instalaciones, que han sido

diseadas y construidas pensando en obtener la mxima

eficiencia y en generar los menores costes posibles. l

mismo se ha encargado de la direccin de las obras y ha

elegido los equipos concienzudamente para lograr este

doble objetivo.

Aprovechar los recursos biomsicos locales. Conscientes

de las ventajas de controlar al menos parte del flujo de

materia prima, Ebinor ha empezado a concurrir a subastas

de pequeos lotes de explotacin forestal con la idea de

aumentar hasta el 50% la aportacin propia de madera al

proceso productivo de la planta. El resto son subproductos

de otros aserraderos de la zona situados en un radio de

unos 150 km y madera de pino cortada que compran a

empresas de aprovechamiento forestal.

Otro recurso biomsico local es la madera de roble, muy

empleada en tonelera para la industria del vino. En Ebinor

ya han realizado pruebas de peletizado y combustin, solo

con roble y en mezcla con pino. Los resultados solo con

madera de roble son alentadores: el poder calorfico es

magnfico, 5.300 kWh/kg de PCI, y el valor para las

cenizas, alto, pero no exagerado: 0,9%.

Han construido 4 boxes para organizar serrn y astillas; en

total, 2 espacios de 500 t cada uno y otros 2 ms

pequeos de hasta 300 toneladas.

PELLETS ESPANHA

De tronco verde a serrn. Un equipo fundamental en la planta es la

serrinadora Linnerman, capaz de convertir troncos de dimetros de

hasta 40 cm en serrn granulado a un ritmo de 4-5 t/h, listo para

peletizar una vez cribado. Diego asegura que funciona mejor que el

clsico serrn de carpintera, aunque de momento trabajan

mezclando ambos productos. El equipo simplifica el proceso de

reduccin de la biomasa al sustituir en un nico paso el triturado-

astillado y la molienda.

Junto a la serrinadora han instalado una descortezadora, tambin de

Linnerman modelo LR400-, que permite limpiar los troncos

perfectamente gracias a la regulacin de velocidad de los rodillos.

En breve, el trnsito de los troncos desde la descortezadora a la

serrinadora ser automtico. Ambos equipos han sido suministrados

por Comercial Cecilio. El serrn que adquieren a terceros se criba para

separar los gruesos, que son derivados al molino de refino.

Secado eficiente. El secadero de trmel es de doble paso y tiene un

rendimiento de 5-6 t/h. La energa se obtiene de un horno de

biomasa de 4 MW, que utiliza corteza de pino como combustible. El

horno tiene varias entradas de aire para optimizar la combustin,

reducir los slidos en suspensin y evitar la contaminacin del serrn:

2 de aire primario, 2 de aire secundario y 2 de aire en la cmara de

postcombustin, que evita la entrada directa de los gases de

combustin al tambor de secado.

Cuando el aire de postcombustin entra en la cmara de secado a

500-600C ocurre un fenmeno denominado efecto flash por el

que el material pierde por evaporacin y de forma instantnea un

20% de su contenido en humedad, pasando del 50 al 30%. Esta

evaporacin sbita crea una cortina de vapor que evita la formacin

de chispas y la contaminacin del serrn que se est secando. Una

turbina situada al final del tambor se encarga de crear una depresin

que succiona el vapor de agua hacia una chimenea de salida,

independiente de la chimenea de escape de los gases de

combustin.

Aunque la astilla G30 se obtiene de apea seca -25%-, tras 6 meses

de acopio en campa, aprovecharn la inercia calorfica del trmel

durante las paradas para secar astilla si fuera necesario.

Peletizado. El serrn que sale del trmel y el serrn

comprado y cribado se mezclan en un depsito de 150

m3 (30 t) situado en el interior de la nave donde se

encuentran los equipos de peletizado. Los descartes

obtenidos en la criba se transforman en serrn en el

molino de seco; este equipo, explica Diego, trabaja

poco, puesto que nunca entran elementos de gran

tamao. Del molino, el material puede dirigirse al silo

o directamente a la mezcladora previa a entrar en los

equipos vinculados con la granuladora, dosificador y

acondicionador. De momento, trabajan con una sola

granuladora pero en mayo colocarn la segunda

unidad, lo que les permitir alcanzar en menos de dos

aos una produccin de 20.000 t/ao. La peletizadora

trabaja en 3 turnos, pero el resto de equipos se adapta

a la tarifa elctrica nocturna.

La salida del material a la enfriadora se efecta por

aspiracin. Desde ah se distribuye a los 2 depsitos

nodriza de 150 t cada uno y al silo de carga, de 50 t.

Tanto si el pellet se va a distribuir a granel o se va a

ensacar, se hace pasar por alguna de las dos cribas

rotativas dispuestas para eliminar los finos generados

por la movilizacin. Han instalado una ensacadora de

Enesval con un rendimiento de 7 sacos/minuto y un

paletizador automtico. Para el reparto cuentan con 2

camiones propios: una cisterna para suministro

neumtico de pellets de 14 t, y un piso mvil de 35 m3

para pellet o astilla.

.

PELLETS ESPANHA

Inversin y empleos. La inversin total ha ascendido a 3,85 millones de euros, que esperan amortizar en 7 aos. La compaa de

inversin Invercaz 2011, S.L, perteneciente a Zulueta Corporacin, empresa ubicada en Navarra dedicada a la implantacin de

csped de calidad, y Santiago Zulueta como inversor particular son los socios mayoritarios de Ebinor. El propio Diego Rodrguez

tambin disfruta de una pequea participacin societaria.

La compaa de inversin Ricari, Desarrollo de Inversiones Riojanas S.A., participa en la financiacin, y la empresa pblica ENISA

dependiente del Ministerio de Industria, Energa y Turismo, a travs de la Direccin General de Industria y de la Pequea y

Mediana Empresa ha facilitado el acceso a financiacin con condiciones favorables.

La planta a pleno funcionamiento requiere una plantilla de 11 personas, que incluye al jefe de planta y 6 operarios en

produccin; un comercial y una persona en administracin y el director. Adems, hay que aadir alrededor de 40 puestos de

trabajo indirectos relacionados con el aprovechamiento forestal.

Expansin en modo local. Por ltimo, Diego nos explica su idea de cmo puede ser la expansin geogrfica futura de la actividad

de Ebinor sin renunciar al concepto de cercana al mercado local: mediante sucursales satlite en distintas provincias y

regiones de la Pennsula como norte de Navarra, Len, Guipuzcoa o Aragn.

Precios

Pellet en planta para gran distribuidor: 165 /t

Pellet a granel para consumidor final en plana: entre 185 y 195 /t, segn la distancia.

PELLETS ESPANHA

UKRAINIAN BIOFUEL PELLETS

As soon as the oil prices stabilized, wood pellets considerably rose in

prices and became unprofitable to use. It wasn't until 90's, when wood

pellets regained their popularity. The world community became aware of

climate changes caused by the GHG emissions; so many countries

introduced taxes on fossil fuels and started renewable energy promotion.

Wood pellet production started to gain momentum due to its green image

in the first place, and consequently it proved to be a very attractive type of

renewable energy.

A significant increase in pellets development pace was observed after the

European Union had announced their 2020 renewable energy targets. The

enhanced demand in the EU member states, where total pellet share is

currently about three quarters of the global consumption, influenced the

volumes of pellet production not only in Europe but also in other leading

pellet-manufacturing countries, such as Canada, the United State, Russia

etc. Consequently, the global wood pellet production increased 15-fold in

the period from 2001 till 2014.

Wood pellet advancement driving factors. Wood pellets have numerous

advantages over other fuels, such as oil, natural gas, coal and alike. The

first advantage to be mentioned is the environmental sustainability of

pellets. This renewable energy source leaves a considerably lower carbon

dioxide footprint, which is eventually neutralized by new plantings. This

feature in currently a crucial one in choosing of the fuel type.

According to various sources, wood pellets have

become a competitive fuel option on the global

scale due to their numerous advantages. Winning

streaks for wood pellet energy sector are anticipated

to run on within the next decade.

Background of wood pellet consumption

development. Wood pellet production in the United

States and in Europe began in the late 70s. The

reason for that was an intense oil crisis of 1973,

when the OAPEC countries proclaimed an oil

embargo, resulting in several-fold oil prices rise.

This so-called first oil shock was followed by the

second one, in 1979; together the two crises

influenced the global economy and brought about

the need to develop more stable energy sources.

Wood pellets drew people's attention as an

adequate substitute for oil. One of the first steps to

pellet promotion in Europe was construction of the

pelletizing plant in Mora, Sweden. It was put into

operation in 1982, but the production expenses

appeared to be much higher than expected, so the

plant immediately ran into problems, and eventually

was closed in 1986.

There were special technologies neither for pellet

production, nor for their efficient usage. Thus,

because of such difficulties and lack of experience

for pellet manufacturing most of the pioneering

plants then had hard times running their business.

WOOD PELLET

MARKET IS GROWING

WORLD WIDE: UP TO

15% INCREASE HY

2023

UKRAINIAN BIOFUEL

Wood pellets are convenient type of fuel both for

industrial engines and also for domestic use in

heating purposes. Low prices, as compared to

other heating fuels are drawing more and more

attention to them as to commodity for

residential heating.

As solid fuel, pellets are quite convenient for

transportation, though they are to be prevented

from getting wet, and thus special covered

railcars are to be applied for their

transportation. Because of that the

requirements for storage accommodations are

strict.

Cost competitiveness is also a point of great

importance in this matter. Pellets are more

affordable than other fossil fuels and,

furthermore, their prices proved to be stable at

the times when oil price fluctuations are

constantly observed.

The industrial needs for wood pellets are

provided globally and the main difficulty here is

transportation logistics, while pellet supplies for

domestic heating are ensured locally, with

distinct price seasonality.

However, wood pellets are not as energy dense

as coal. These two fuel types correlate in the

matter of prices, but the GHG emissions are of

enormous difference.

Recently some companies have been

announcing about new technologies of wood

pellet manufacturing, such as torrefied wood

pellet production. Another technology is being

developed, so that to create water resistant or

waterproof pellets. Such tendencies suggest

promising prospects for future development.

Wood pellets forecasts for future. The global wood pellet market is

constantly reviewed in order to promote its sustainable development.

According to the latest market researchers, wood pellet industry is going to

grow steadily.

The analysts of Ukrainian Biofuel Portal pellets-wood.com suggest a

production growth of 15 percent by 2023. They have carried out a detailed

review of the market and gave their estimation of 20,073 million value of

the wood pellet returns by 2023.

The figures comply with the data reports, conducted by other companies,

e.g. German Biofuel Portal biomassa.de. The average figures amount up to

15 percent boosting for global pellet market and total value of more than

$20 billion.

In terms of the largest producers, Canada, the United States and Europe are

to remain their positions, while Russia, South Africa are expected to be the

new large-scale wood pellet producers and exporters.

UKRAINIAN BIOFUEL PELLETS

he United Kingdom remains devoted to the idea of its

energy system transformation. According to the Europe

Union common energy policy, the UK is reducing the use

of coal in order to produce electricity using the renewable

power sources. Drax Power station replaces the coal with

the wood pellets.

In this context, the largest power plant in the country

Drax Power Station is converting its units, what will

make it possible to redirects its electricity production

from coal-fired to biomass-based one. Nowadays this

power plant is generating approximately 8 per cent of the

country's general electricity production. This number is

significant, that is why the power production should be

modified. Drax Power Station is cutting down the use of

coal and involving biomass to generate electricity at

present. It will give an impressive result in the nearest

future: approximately 12 tonnes of carbon is considered

to be saved per year. This will come to life on condition

that every Drax's unit is converted.

Coal-fired power production is coming to the end. It is not

surprisingly, that the coal-based energy production is

gradually declining. During the past several years, a price

for coal has decreased significantly. Moreover, the price

for this fuel tends to fall even more. That is why coal

industry is losing its former profitability.

In this case, Drax Group operations director Peter Emery

is convinced that that coal industry will have been

completely closed down by 2020. That is why the biomass

is necessary to keep Drax Power Station on track.

Originally, the biomass industry was of local nature. The

main goal of such enterprises was to provide the

households with wood pellets for the local heating.

However, it has expanded significantly since the

developed economies decided to replace the coal with

another, more sustainable, energy source.

DRAX POWER STATION IS

SWITCHING TO THE BIOMASS

FIRED PRODUCTION

The figures are quite eloquent. During the period between July and

September 2015 the general output of coal-fired power station all over

the United Kingdom decreased by 54 per cent. At the same time, share

of the renewable energy sources equated 20 per cent of the general

power production. As it comes to the biomass, it is expected to be

supplied in an amount of 2.2 million tonnes in 2015.

Another reason for the biomass utilization is its environmental

friendliness, according to the electricity prod

Documents

Revista brasil biomassa e pellets