Biomass
What? Biomass is fuel created from organic materials. Biomass fuels such as cordwood and wood pellets are the most common fuel type for domestic biomass heating systems. Biomass fuels are considered “carbon neutral” as they sequester as much carbon in the growth process as they release when burned.
How does it work? When biomass fuels such as cordwood and wood pellets are burned, they release heat. Wood burning furnaces, boilers, and stoves capture the heat released by burning fuel and direct it into the heat distribution system.
Who? Biomass heating systems are a great choice for meeting home heating needs in the New England region. Biomass systems often require daily interaction on the part of the occupants, such as hauling wood from a storage area to the boiler and adding wood to the boiler as necessary. Choosing a biomass heating system means being ready to take on the required commitments of time and physical work.
Why? Cordwood and wood pellets can usually be found locally, decreasing the number of miles the fuel source needs to travel, making it easier to access and further reducing fossil fuel dependence. In addition to being sourced locally, cordwood and wood pellets are often offered at a significantly lower cost than fossil fuel alternatives.