Co-firing

Co-firing refers to the simultaneous combustion of a supplementary fuel (i.e. biomass) with a base fuel (i.e. coal). Co-firing biomass with coal is seen as the cheapest way of generating green power in utility plants. In addition it also reduces the emissions of fossil based carbon dioxide and is accredited under the Renewables Obligation. From a community services perspective, biomass co-firing represents an opportunity to add value to raw materials.

After 31st March 2006 co-firing coal with biomass will only be eligible under the Renewables Obligation if 75 % or more of the energy content of the biomass derives from energy crops. The co-firing of coal and biomass will only be eligible under the Renewables Obligation until 31st March 2011.

Co-firing can be subdivided into: Direct Co-firing: biomass and coal are fired in the same compartment. Indirect Co-firing: combustion/ gasification of biomass occurs in a separate facility.

Further information regarding co-firing biomass can be found at:

http://www.dti.gov.uk/renewables/publications/pdfs/bu100726midtermreview.pdf

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