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Bio-Oil Project

Overview:

Bio-oil is a liquid that can be derived from low-grade wood waste by a process known as pyrolysis. Bio-Oil has potential uses as a fuel for production of heat and electricity. It may also eventually have value as a feedstock for a "green" chemicals industry. Bio-oil production and utilization have several potentially beneficial outcomes including: economic support of sustainable forest management practices; renewable, indigenous, carbon-neutral energy supply; creation of jobs and retention of energy dollars in the regional economy; ability to generate and market electricity at peak demand times; possible spinoff business growth through colocation, derivative products and services.

ECS recognizes bio-oil’s potential as well as its challenges. Therefore, ECS will conduct a thorough, objective feasibility study whose conclusions will be based on documented research data and analysis.

Feasibility assessment will include evaluation of pyrolysis technologies; chemical and physical characterization of bio-oil; availability of feedstock on a sustainable basis; environmental factors from forest ecology through end-uses; market analyses and attractiveness to potential investors.

ECS is being aided in this work by a broad-based partnership that includes: US and Canadian federal agencies; agencies of several states; universities; forest industry, environmental, and biomass energy organizations; economic development organizations; and private individuals. It is being funded by a grant from the US Department of Energy plus funds from the NH Department of Resources and Economic Development (DRED) and much in-kind support. The effort will produce a definitive report in September 2004, including a conceptual commercialization plan, conclusions and recommendations.

ECS, the Northeast Regional Biomass Program and United States Forest Service hosted a Bio-Oil Briefing in Concord on August 16, 2002, to update stakeholders and project partners on the status of several issues surrounding bio-oil. There were presentations by US and Canadian energy agencies, three pyrolysis technology companies and one combustion turbine manufacturer. Participants then compiled lists of what was learned, what questions need to be answered and recommended next steps. The briefing and its findings are providing valuable guidance for the feasibility study.

Presentations:
Presentations delivered at the Bio-Oil Briefing held on August 16, 2002 in Concord , NH
click here for an overview of the briefing

National Renewable Energy Laboratories

Natural Resources Canada

DynaMotive Energy Systems Corporation

Ensyn Technologies

Renewable Oil International

Magellan Aerospace Corporation

Orenda Aerospace Corporation / Part 1

Orenda Aerospace Corporation / Part 2

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For more information, contact:
Joseph Broyles, Energy Program Manager
Governor's Office of Energy & Community Services
phone: 603-271-8341
fax: 603-271-2615

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