Cramlington Renewable Energy Developments (CRED) required analysis of fuel input material at their biomass power plant to diagnose discrepancies in moisture levels on-site.

Through the utilisation of biomass fuels, CRED’s CHP Plant in Cramlington, United Kingdom, can generate 223 GWh/year of renewable energy.

By doing so, they are reducing emissions by 56 kt CO2e annually compared to gas-fired facilities. The plant supplies local amenities with low-carbon renewable heat and electricity whilst feeding the balance of the electricity generated to the National Grid.

THE CHALLENGE

CRED had noticed a discrepancy in fuel moisture values between weighbridge samples and the online boiler moisture readings. The lower readings at the weighbridge did not tally with the higher boiler readings. This was leading to losses, as the perceived energy bought did not correspond to the actual energy generated.

EXPERT SOLUTIONS

With a wealth of experience in working with major clients across the biomass and energy production sector, Alfred H Knight was chosen to help CRED review their sampling and analysis processes at the site.

Working together with Evermore Energy, which provides the General Management and Asset Management Services for CRED, our experts conducted a comprehensive study of the current fuel reception, sampling and analysis processes.

“We enquired with various other laboratories within the sector. However, the staff at Alfred H Knight showed the best understanding of what we as a site required and delivered a plan to undertake a site review, leading to actions and improvements in sampling and processes”

Malcolm Sanderson – Asset Manager – Evermore Energy

PROCESS IMPROVEMENT RESULTS

Utilising practical industry experience, we were able to identify scope for process improvements in both sampling and analysis and continue to support CRED through training, advice, site audits and more. CRED has since been able to reduce the gap between fuel moisture at the weighbridge v boiler down to a 1-2% difference.

“The process improvements and continued support are of massive benefit to us and our partners on the site. We are getting better moisture readings in our incoming fuel with fewer errors, leading to savings on fuel to fire the plant.”

Malcolm Sanderson – Asset Manager – Evermore Energy

OUR EXPERTISE

As a leading provider of inspection, testing and consultancy services for the solid fuels, metals, minerals and agricultural industries, Alfred H Knight has vast experience with a variety of materials throughout the global supply chain.

We operate a global network of experts with a well-earned reputation for providing reliable, professional services and high-quality results. Whether you need our services at a retail site, load or discharge port, Energy from Waste facility, or at other crucial points in the logistics chain, AHK can meet your needs.

“We were at risk of buying energy that did not exist through incorrect low moisture readings at the weighbridge. In the short time that we have implemented the recommendations from Alfred H Knight, we have made substantial financial savings.”

Malcolm Sanderson – Asset Manager – Evermore Energy

NEED SUPPORT FOR YOUR BIOMASS POWER PLANT?

Alfred H Knight’s experienced team is always available to support and assist you with waste composition or solid fuel analysis requirements. Get in touch with one of our experts today via our contact page to see how we can help you.