Biomass Legislation

Some of the areas biomass projects have to comply with are:

• Noise – Dependant on the system, due to the feeding mechanisms which deliver the biomass woodchips into the boiler. Systems such as hoppers and ‘walking floors’ may generate noise and we have experience of creating noise attenuation solutions which bring this to well within planning limits to ensure that our neighbours are not affected by any operational matters.
• Air Quality – In addition to national laws, local legislation can also apply with initiatives such as ‘Clean Air Zones’ and ‘Air Quality Management Areas’. Which legislation applies to a particular biomass scheme is dependent on the MW output of the plant and the type of biomass fuel being used. Legislation can include The Clean Air Act, IPPC and LA-PPC and regulation can fall to the local authority, Environment Agency, or the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) for Scotland.

As a business we undertake extensive flue dispersion modelling, calculate emissions and design technical solutions to reduce the impact of a system on the environment and ensure the scheme complies with planning regulations and legislation.

• DSEAR – The Dangerous Substances and Explosive Atmospheres Regulations exist to ensure substances which can cause explosions and fires are handled and stored safely. We also ensure all of our designs applicable to this legislation are compliant.
• Health & Safety – In addition to the construction phase, the operation and maintenance phase must be conducted safely. There are several pieces of legislation which must be adhered to and these include:
  • The Health & Safety at Work Act
  • The Provision & Use of Work Regulations
  • Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations
  • Machinery safety directive
  • Pressure system safety regulations
  • Pressure equipment regulations
  • Work at Height Regulations
  • Manual handling operations
  • Confined Spaces Regulations
  • Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations

In addition to this there are a wide range of approved codes of practice which HESCO are experienced at implementing.

Heat networks are set to play a key role in meeting carbon reduction targets and helping to create a sustainable energy future.

Effective consumer protection is essential to the long-term success of the heat network market. Satisfied customers are the fuel for future growth.