You may have sought out means to use less of the earth’s finite resources or to reduce the amount of carbon emissions that you directly or indirectly contribute to the atmosphere. However, you are not willing to shiver inside your home. Nor do you have the financial means or the desire to invest in an entire solar panel array or a wind turbine setup.

Biomass boilers represent a potential solution. Biomass is a second-generation biofuel that uses waste products from carpentry, construction and paper production to form chips and pellets that can be used for fuel. As a second-generation biofuel, biomass avoids the diversion of food crops into fuel production and the destruction of rain forests and other virgin ecosystems that make first-generation biofuel production controversial.

Setting up a biomass boiler does require a considerable up-front financial investment. Furthermore, professional installation is recommended for nearly all biomass boilers. However, the government of the United Kingdom has established financial assistance to help reduce the burden of installing and maintaining a biomass boiler in your home.

Biomass Chips Versus Pellets

In most household installations, a biomass boiler that burns pellets is called for. In their smallest size, biomass boilers that burn pellets can be installed in a utility room of a detached home. However, if you are heating a larger structure, biomass boilers that burn wood chips are called for. Such biomass boilers require the construction of a separate enclosure along with sufficient clearance on all sides for proper installation.

Professional Installation Recommended

If you are building your own home and are properly skilled in handyperson tools, it is possible to install the smallest biomass boilers yourself. However, in most instances, professional installation is required. The Energy Saving Trust recommends that you contract with an installer that has been certified either by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) or by Renewable Energy Assurance Limited (REAL) as a member in good standing of the Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC).

Storage Space and Proper Permits Needed

Unlike gas boilers, biomass boilers do not receive a steady stream of pellets or chips from the local utility. As a result, you must construct and maintain a storage facility on your property. If you live in a residential area, you may need to disguise your storage area to avoid creating a potential eyesore. You should also ensure that your biomass chips or pellets are protected from the elements. In all instances, you must maintain your storage area well away from any potential fire risks.

Before you invest in a biomass boiler, ensure that you have the proper permissions to move ahead with your plans. You should check whether ordinances exist in your area that would restrict the operation of your biomass boiler. You may also need permission from your local planning authority for the flue for your boiler.

The Renewable Heat Payment Program (RHPP) Scheme

Many households are put off from installing biomass boilers by the large upfront financial investment necessary. The cost of biomass boilers varies according to size and other factors; however, financial funds are needed for proper installation of your biomass boiler. However, financial help is potentially available to ease the financial bite.

If you are a homeowner in England, Scotland or Wales, you may be eligible for assistance with installing biomass boilers through the Renewable Heat Payment Program (RHPP) scheme. Residents of Northern Ireland may also receive assistance, but under specialized regulations. Likewise, if you are at tenant who has received permission from your landlord, you may also receive assistance from the RHPP scheme.

You must be converting from liquid gas, heating oil or electric heat. If you presently heat your home with mains gas, you are not eligible for assistance with installing a biomass boiler under the RHPP scheme. You must also install at least 250 mm of insulation in your loft, and install installation in your cavity walls if possible.

The biomass boiler system and the installer that you select must be certified under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), Solar Keymark or equivalent certifying body. You must also obtain a Green Deal Assessment for your property. If you meet all the criteria, you may receive a voucher for up to £2,000 to help offset your expenses.