WATERVILE (AP) — While temperatures dropped below zero in Maine, Colby College fired up a new biomass plant that will offset the need for oil by burning wood chips, bark and treetops.

The Waterville college says its $11 million biomass plant will replace about 1 million gallons of heating fuel with about 22,000 tons of locally produced wood annually. During peak usage, the college is expected to save $ 250,000 monthly at current market prices.

The wood will feed boilers to produce steam used for heat, hot water, cooking and co-generation of electricity.

Colby says the biomass plant is a key part of its plan to be carbon neutral by 2015.

Copy the Story Link

Comments are not available on this story.