Xcel Energy Files Application For Largest Biomass Plant in Midwest

[Fledermaus]

ASHLAND, Wis. (Press Release) - Following more than a year of study and planning, Xcel Energy announced it has filed an application for a Certificate of Authority with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) to install biomass gasification technology at its Bay Front Power Plant in Ashland. When completed, the project will convert the plant's remaining coal-fired unit to biomass gasification technology, allowing it to use 100 percent biomass in all three boilers and making it the largest biomass plant in the Midwest. Currently, two of the three operating units at Bay Front use biomass as their primary fuel to generate electricity.

The project, estimated at $58 million, will require additional biomass receiving and handling facilities at the plant, an external gasifier, minor modifications to the plant's remaining coal-fired boiler and an enhanced air quality control system. The total generation output of the plant is not expected to change significantly as a result of the project.

http://www.wqow.com/Global/story.asp?S=9895369&nav=menu1364_2

[JohnWxy]

1. extemely important development. THis technology can be used anywhere power is needed - such as

industrial applications.


"When complete, the project will reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides by more than 60 percent, sulfur dioxides by more than 80 percent and particulate matter by more than 80 percent. In addition, displacing coal with sustainably harvested biomass will also reduce net carbon dioxide emissions, contributing to the company and state of Wisconsin's carbon management goals."

Tried to recommend but was beyond the time period.

[madokie]

2. I think we need to be converting our coal burning plants to gasification

by using the gasifier process rather than direct burn we can cut about half of the co2 out of the waste gases.