In his latest blog, Senior Consultant, Oisín de Priall, explains emissions modelling and its need in the face of growing pressures from planning authorities.
In recent years, biomass boilers - particularly those using woodchip and pellet fuel - have become an increasingly popular heating solution due to their cost-effectiveness and renewable credentials. However, this growth has also led to a rise in planning-related challenges, largely stemming from misunderstandings around the environmental and air quality impacts of these systems.
As individuals and businesses seek to reduce their carbon footprints and embrace cleaner energy sources, biomass boilers offer a viable path forward. Yet, the perception that these systems pose a threat to local air quality often prompts planning authorities to request extensive and sometimes excessive data before granting permission.
To address these concerns and provide clear evidence about the real environmental impact of biomass systems, emissions modelling has emerged as a powerful tool. Through advanced dispersion modelling, the air quality implications of both proposed and existing installations can be assessed with high accuracy. This process takes into account local weather patterns, surrounding topography, and nearby buildings, allowing for a detailed understanding of pollutant dispersion.
What Does Emissions Modelling Consider?
An effective emissions modelling approach evaluates multiple factors, including:
- Boiler and flue location
- Flue height and diameter
- Flue gas velocity and temperature
- Emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter (PM10)
- Boiler heat generation efficiency
The results can then be used to compare the projected impact of a biomass heating system against several benchmarks. These might include the emissions profile of alternative heating sources like gas or oil boilers, the advantages of centralised versus individual systems, or compliance with national and local air quality regulations such as the UK Air Quality Standards Regulations (2010).
Understanding Air Quality Standards
Air quality standards exist to regulate key pollutants such as Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂), Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂), Benzene, Lead, PM10, and Carbon Monoxide(CO). These standards apply across both urban and rural areas and are often reinforced in designated Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs), where air quality is known to be compromised - such as busy city centres or industrial zones.
Fortunately, emissions from biomass systems are typically limited to low levels of NOx and PM10, making them compatible with even the strictest regulatory frameworks.
Applications and Benefits of Modelling
Emissions modelling is not confined to one type of project or user. It can be applied to:
- Troubleshooting underperforming or problematic systems
- Supporting planning applications
- Informing feasibility studies for community energy projects
- Guiding design decisions in new development
Although the focus is often on biomass, the same modelling techniques can be applied to other energy technologies, helping stakeholders make informed, data-driven decisions.
Table: AQSR Emissions Limits and Averaging Periods
To date, Reheat has supported a number of clients with these services including councils looking to troubleshoot existing systems, community groups working in the feasibility stage and property owners needing support while applying for planning permission. While Reheat has a background and expertise in biomass systems, modelling of all technologies can be carried out.
Simply contact us if you require support and services relating to Emissions Modelling.
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