The Local Residue Energy (Loreen) project, which is developing a cost-effective combined heat and power (CHP) plant fuelled by the gasification of unprocessed, dry biomass residues from agriculture and wood-based manufacturing, is according to a statement, celebrating a “stellar” first year.
Milestones since the project’s inception in 2016 have included securing EUR 2.9 million investment from InnoEnergy – the innovation engine for sustainable energy across Europe – the completion of an extensive feasibility study and the optimisation of its demonstration system.
Headed by Meva Energy AB, a Swedish developer of small biomass gasification energy systems with a minimum of distribution and parasitic losses, the Local Residue Energy (Loreen) project also includes the Research Institutes of Sweden (RISE) and a leading international furniture manufacturer.
– Meva Energy’s technology and this project are an ideal illustration of what can be achieved through collaborative innovation and market focus. This could be the solution that really expands the possibilities for cogeneration and for biomass, said Dr. Roland Doll, leader of the Energy from Chemical Fuels Thematic Field at InnoEnergy.
Initial feasibility studies have shown that Meva Energy’s gasification processes will be able to produce heat and power in the range below the commercial viability of existing steam-turbine technology – typically less than 10MWe.
– Many of our potential customers have already converted fleet vehicles or begun monitoring energy consumption; they are now ready to take the next step. InnoEnergy’s specialist energy knowledge is so important to us. With private venture capitalists (VC’s) more focused on the digital sector, there’s a great need for investors like InnoEnergy in clean tech and related fields, said Niclas Davidsson, CEO of Meva Energy and Project Director of Loreen.
