Poole Launches Biomass Boiler Project

Borough of Poole is introducing a new project to fund the installation of biomass boilers in community buildings in an effort to reduce Poole's carbon emissions.

The council is offering community groups and schools the opportunity to apply for funding to install a biomass boiler.

The aim is to have up to five renewable energy projects within community buildings across Poole. It is expected that the projects will become examples of how renewable energy can be used to benefit the community and to help reduce Poole's carbon footprint.

Reducing Poole's carbon footprint is a priority for the council, which is committed to reducing its own emissions by 25% by 2012. The council would like to encourage residents and businesses to take similar action.

Biomass boilers can be powered using wood chips or green waste such as untreated wood. While not totally carbon neutral, as long as the fuel is sourced locally biomass boilers are much more environmentally friendly and are also cost effective.  

This project aims to offer a practical solution to reducing emissions and the amount of green waste sent to landfill.

Community groups with buildings or those who have regular long-term use of a building in Poole will be eligible to apply for installation of a biomass boiler.

Cllr Don Collier, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for the Environment, Borough of Poole, said: "This scheme will give community groups the opportunity to save money and will also contribute to the overall reduction of carbon emissions in Poole. This project aims to demonstrate that alternative fuels can be practical and achievable in the long term for everyone."

The Dorset Energy Advice Centre will promote the scheme on behalf of the Borough of Poole. To express an interest in a community group biomass boiler please contact Martin Samuels, Project Manager, via email at martin@deac.co.uk or call 01202 307417.

For further information contact Paul Cooling, Carbon Reduction Manager, Borough of Poole, via email at p.cooling@poole.gov.uk or call 01202 633719.