Technical evaluation of using torrified biomass from the "Rotawave" process to economically reduce carbon output from coal-fired power generation

Biomass use for energy production in the developed world is rising considerably because over its lifetime it can deliver significant carbon savings. Pelletisation is used to help mitigate the technical challenges of using biomass such as energy density and moisture content. Despite the benefits accruing from pellets, their utilisation on a large scale is still problematic and difficulties arise from their high sensitivity to moisture and health and safety issues during storage and handling. A second technology, torrefaction (a mild roasting process), has been reported to improve milling behaviour, increase calorific value, improve storage and increase uniformity and durability of biomass. This feasibility study proposes to assess the economic and GHG savings, and technical potential for combining torrefaction with pelletisation to produce an optimised high energy density fuel capable of being stored externally whilst being fully compatible with existing power station processing plant.