[From Chisato Horiuchi in Tokyo, Japan]
Tohoku Electric Power promotes introduction of woody biomass fuel to coal-fired power
Tohoku Electric Power Co., Inc. announced on the 15th that it will promote the introduction of woody biomass fuel at coal-fired power plants as part of measures against global warming. Begin to use as part of the fuel in December Haramachi thermal power plant in prospect next year (Fukushima Prefecture Minamisoma) and Noshiro thermal power plant (Noshiro City, Akita Prefecture). Efforts to utilize unused wood from the forest around the power plant will reduce the use of fossil fuels and reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions.
Haramachi Thermal Power uses about 60,000 tons of woody biomass fuel annually, and is expected to have a CO2 emission control effect of about 50,000 tons (about 10,000 ordinary households). It is said to be the largest domestic electric power company to use domestically produced woody biomass fuel. On the other hand, Noshiro Thermal Power will use about 30,000 tons a year, which will lead to a CO2 suppression effect of about 30,000 tons.
Of the logs cut down in the forests of each prefecture where the two power plants are located, those that are not used as building materials are processed as chips. Used after mixing and crushing with coal. The co-firing rate with coal is said to be about 1% in terms of weight. Related equipment will be installed at both power plants before the introduction.
The Sakata Kyodo Thermal Power Station (Sakata City, Yamagata Prefecture) operated by a group company is also preparing to introduce woody biomass fuel around May next year. Distribution line maintenance
Mainly utilize trees to be cut down during defensive work.
