Metso to supply US power producer with 100MWe biomass boiler
In what is being described as an important milestone for US renewable energy projects, Finnish engineering firm Metso has been appointed to supply a 100MWe biomass boiler island and plant automation system to the Gainesville Renewable Energy Center (GREC) in Florida, USA.
GREC has successfully raised nearly $500million in construction financing, of which Metso's delivery represents more than 25%. The new power plant installation will supply Gainesville Regional Utilites with a firm source of renewable electric power under the terms of a thirty year power purchase agreement.
"Our partnership with Metso played a significant role in allowing us to complete this construction financing. GREC is now able to move forward without delay, ensuring that the Gainesville community will receive the many environmental and financial benefits of this renewable energy facility", said Jim Gordon, GREC president.
The 100MW biomass boiler will utilise bubbling fluidiSed bed (BFB) technology and use waste wood from logging and mill activity, as well as urban wood waste from clearing, tree trimming and pallets as the main fuel. Metso's complete delivery scope includes the entire boiler island and flue gas cleaning system. Metso will also supply the entire power plant automation system.
Commercial operation of the plant is scheduled for 2013. Once operational, the 100MW boiler will be one of the largest and most efficient biomass boilers in the world, providing clean electricity for approximately 70,000 homes. The investment in the new power plant, along with the local biomass fuel supply, is also expected to create more than 700 jobs.
