Biomass Heating System
Turning Wood into Energy: Unlocking Biomass
The Sawyer Community Center Biomass Heating System project was born out of the Fond du Lac Reservation Resource Division’s desire to reduce its reliance on propane and shift district heating to biomass. By utilizing byproducts from local logging and fuel reduction operations, the project not only lowered heating costs but also diversified the local economy and improved energy self-sufficiency, as well as provided valuable data on the feasibility of biomass energy for broader community use.
LHB provided a comprehensive suite of services, including building engineering design, construction administration, and expertise in building architecture, structural, mechanical, electrical, civil, and surveying. The 1.7 MMBtu biomass boiler replaced 88% of propane use, cutting propane consumption by 13,295 gallons annually and reducing CO2 emissions by approximately 85 tons per year. This innovative project not only reduced energy costs but also paved the way for a more sustainable future by reducing fossil fuel fuel dependence and improving air quality. It provides valuable insights into the potential of biomass energy for district heating, while contributing to the broader goal of energy sustainability.
Embracing Sustainable Heating and Efficiency
A 62’ x 42’ prefabricated building was designed and constructed near the Community Center to house the biomass heating system and utilities, which includes water, sewer, electrical, HVAC with heated floor/slab, exhaust louvers, windows, and both pedestrian and overhead doors.
Driving Sustainability and Efficiency with Biomass
Hot water from the biomass boiler is piped underground to the Community Center, where it operates in parallel with two propane boilers, making the biomass boiler the primary source of both space heating and domestic hot water. This energy-efficient system not only reduces costs but also supports sustainability goals by significantly lowering carbon emissions.
Reducing Pollution and Increasing Heat Output
The system is powered by oak wood chips, a waste product from Savanna Pallet, a local manufacturing facility, and is designed to dry these chips to optimize efficiency, reducing pollution and generating more heat.
