NSPI to explore biofuels

TRENTON - It might not be next week, but it's possible in a few years that power plants like Trenton's generating station could be burning a mixture of coal and biomass to generate electricity.
The utility is one of four energy projects in the Maritimes to receive federal funding under the government's Clean Energy Fund. As a demonstration project, Nova Scotia Power will study "optimum fuel blends," for co-firing coal with various types of biomass.
President and CEO Rob Bennett said yesterday that Nova Scotia Power is interested in pursuing biomass as a source of fuel for its coal power plants, but only "if it can be done in a sustainable way."
NSPI is expected to receive $8 million in funding, which it will match to pursue the project.
"We know there are a lot of questions around the use of biomass in Nova Scotia and our company wants to be part of the work that needs to happen to answer those questions."
The utility has already attempted burning various types of biomass in two other generating stations. For example, its Point Tupper power plant has tried burning a mix of waste fish oil with coal. Bennett said NSPI has also test-burned wood-based biomass in its Point Aconi plant. He also suggested that there is potential for under-utilized farmland to be used in biomass production.
Nova Scotia Power routinely burns coal from Nova Scotia, but relies on coal imported from other parts of the world.
"Every plant is different. But, I would say, within the next couple of years, we will be experimenting with different fuels in this plant to see how the plant performs and what the impact is."
The announcement is part of a five-year $146 million federal government investment affecting 19 projects from coast to coast announced by Central Nova MP and Minister of National Defence, Peter MacKay.
"In the weeks ahead, we will be negotiating contribution agreements with the proponents of 19 renewable, clean energy demonstration projects across Canada, from coast to coast."
MacKay said the commitment signifies the government's willingness to embrace green technologies, which he believes "means new jobs and moving forward in a way that is ultimately going to benefit ratepayers."