Reed canary grass and forest residues new potential fuel mix for Boliden AB
Boliden AB is the third largest supplier of copper and zinc metal Europe. The company is located in the north of Sweden but has several operations throughout Europe. To cut costs, Boliden is working with energy matters and are constantly in search of cheaper and more efficient heating solutions.
As part of Boliden’s energy efforts, a potential conversion from oil/electricity to biomass heating has been identified. Boliden AB runs a processing plant in the town of Boliden in the north of Sweden. In junction with this plant, several industrial buildings are rented out by Boliden to local entrepreneurs. These buildings are currently heated with electricity and oil, but Boliden sees potential to invest in a new heating solution.
The RASLRES project (Regional Approaches to Stimulating Local Renewable Energy Solutions) together with the SMALLEST project (Solutions for Microgeneration to Allow Energy Saving Technology), has aided Boliden in these efforts. In the spring of 2011, a consultant was hired for a feasibility study that was completed in May 2011. Reed canary grass (RCG) cofired with forest residues (tips and branches) were investigated as potential fuel mix. Results from the feasibility study show that combustion tests need to be carried out before Boliden invests in a new biomass boiler (about 2 MW).The reason for this is that the fuel mix is relatively untested. The feasibility study also showed that the cost of the new heating solution would be comparable to Boliden’s current heating costs.
There are however a lot of benefits from investing in a biomass heating solution. Firstly, electricity costs are quickly and steadily rising in Sweden, increasing Boliden’s current heating costs, while prices for biomass is a lot lower and more stable. Secondly, a new biomass heating solution would benefit the local economy in terms of providing business opportunities to forest owners, local farmers, boiler operators etc. Increased job opportunities could also help keep the town of Boliden alive, and thereby secure future labor supply for Boliden AB. Thirdly, Boliden would get massive PR opportunities for installing a new biomass boiler. This is especially important considering that mining operations is generally seen as harmful for the environment. Finally, there’s the environmental aspect in that a new biomass boiler would offset CO2 emissions. Also, using the intended fuel mix of RCG and forest residues could be used as a model for future heating solutions.
Boliden AB is currently considering their options in this matter and will most likely make a decision on whether to proceed by the fall of 2011.
