Biomass Systems

Alternatively known as wood-fuelled heating, biomass systems burn organic matter such as wood pellets instead of rapidly diminishing fossil fuels.

How Biomass Systems Work

Biomass systems use the heat generated from burning wood pellets, chips or logs for heating or hot water. There are two types of system that burn wood - a wood pellet boiler, which produces heat for central heating and hot water systems, and a wood pellet stove, which heats single or multiple rooms in a building.

Biomass systems are a low carbon option as the CO2 emitted when wood fuel is burned is the same as the amount that was absorbed over the previous months and years when a plant was growing. As long as new plants continue to grow in place of those used for fuel, the process is sustainable.*

Requirements

  • Fuel - the fuel needs to be placed near the boiler, be easily accessible and have plenty of dry storage space.
  • Flue - the vent material must be specifically designed for wood fuel appliances and there must be sufficient air movement for proper operation of the stove. Chimneys can be fitted with a lined flue.
  • Smokeless zone - Wood can only be burnt on exempted appliances under the Clean Air Act. This mainly applies to domestic appliances.

Key benefits

  • Can be cost effective when a local fuel source is used
  • Carbon-neutral energy source

Planning permission

Planning permission may be required when installing biomass systems, e.g. if the building is listed, in a conservation area or a World Heritage Site.

*Source: http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Generate-your-own-energy/Wood-fuelled-heating, August 2010