Sundog Energy has recently installed a 24kW biomass boiler at GlencoyneFarm, one of the Lake District’s most scenic farms, reducing the farm’s heating costs and its carbon footprint.
The farm, which is owned by the National Trust, is farmed by Sam and Candida Hodgson who commented: “Not only are we doing our bit to help protect the environment but we will also make huge savings on our fuel bills.” The new biomass boiler replaces an aging oil-fired boiler and is part of the Hodgson’s drive to reduce the carbon emissions and energy costs of the farm, and the Trust’s commitment to improve the environmental performance of its property portfolio. Consultations with Sundog’s design team resulted in the selection of a state-of-the-art Palazzetti CT24 biomass boiler to power the new system.
The boiler and a substantial hopper, which stores and automatically feeds the wood pellet fuel, are discreetly located in the farm’s wash-house, with the flue passing through an existing chimney stack to minimise the visual impact. The boiler connects to the existing radiators and hot water tank, providing ample heat for the Grade II-listed 6 bedroom house, part of which dates back to 1629.
According to Sam and Candida Hodgson: “We feel very privileged to live and farm in this wonderful piece of the Lake District and we try to do this in as environmentally sensitive way as we can. That challenge isn’t confined to how we manage the land and our livestock but also how we heat and power the farm buildings. Our new biomass heating system has made a huge improvement and we are delighted with it.”
Speaking for the National Trust, Shirley Pye said: “The biomass heating project at Glencoyne Farm is a prime example of the programme we are running to reduce the carbon emissions of our properties by cutting energy consumption and generating more of our heat and power from renewable sources. The system will also earn quarterly payments from the Government’s Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI) scheme for every unit of heat it generates. So, in addition to helping the environment, this project means that we will have more money to spend on conserving our precious properties and let estate.”
Martin Cotterell, founder and technical director of Sundog Energy commented: “Biomass heating is perfect for rural properties, whether homes or businesses, that are off the gas grid and are therefore dependant on oil, solid fuel or electric heating. The price of these conventional energy sources is soaring and they also have a heavy cost on the environment.
“Biomass heating is renewable, very efficient and extremely cost-effective. The RHI means that some biomass heating systems can pay for themselves in as little as 3 to 4 years. Biomass is definitely the way to a greener energy future.”
