Installing a biomass system

System suitability and fuel supply, storage and delivery are important issues that must be considered. There are also a number of regulations relating to the installation of solid fuel heating systems that apply to biomass systems.

Issues to consider

Before installing a biomass energy system there are a number of considerations that should always be made:

• Is a biomass system suitable for this application?
• Is the heat demand likely to be suitable
• Where is the fuel to be sourced from, and what are its characteristics?
• Where can the fuel be stored and how can it be delivered into the store?

• More about installation issues
• Woodfuel storage and handling

Regulations

There are a number of regulations relating to the installation of solid fuel heating systems that apply to biomass systems. Many are derived from those originally drawn up for coal and smokeless fuel systems and may be imperfectly suited for modern biomass systems, which can cause difficulties.

These include:

• BS EN303-5:2012
• Building Regulations
• Clean Air Act

• More information about regulations

Installers

There are a number of different options for having a biomass system installed. These include:

• Supply and install
• Supply and install with ongoing maintenance contract
• Supply and install with fuel supply contract
• Energy Service Company (ESCO)

• More information about installer options