The Farming Express February #1 | Page 3

Biomass Heating Does Not Have To Be Expensive Or Complicated AFS Biomass offers end-to-end solution for renewable or green energy systems to businesses, institutions and homes. From initial design and planning, right through to installation and on going maintenance, our service is truly holistic. We design, supply, install and maintain complete biomass boiler systems for commercial, domestic and district heating applications (where several buildings are heated by a single boiler). We pride ourselves on good advice, on our service, and the efficient, no nonsense installation of the right system for the job. We can provide everything you need from retro-fit systems to bespoke energy centres, from fuel stores to fuel supply. Our biomass boilers will integrate with any existing heating systems, including under floor heating, domestic hot water and with other renewables such as solar. Why Biomass? In a heating context, "Biomass" is the name given to organic material that can be used as fuel. The new generation of "multi-fuel" biomass boilers supplied by AFS are up to 96% efficient and can burn wood logs, wood pellets, wood chips, cereals and miscanthus. Biomass Energy Centre) Biomass is cheaper than fossil fuel. Wood pellets are 25-30% cheaper than heating oil and wood chip is 40-50% cheaper. (Source; Biomass Energy Centre) Buying biomass fuel locally reduces There Are Many Good Reasons for the environmental impact of transport, helps your local economy, Using Biomass Fuel Biomass is sustainable, renewable, provides local business opportunities and rural jobs. virtually carbon neutral and Excellent return on investment, offers CO2 savings of up to 96%, especially if replacing electricity, compared to heating oil. (Source; heating oil or LPG. "Thinning" - the selective harvesting of a forest's annual growth - not only provides biomass fuel, but is necessary to improve the growth rate of trees and to support biodiversity. Woodland, forestry and agriculture provide the population with leisure and recreation opportunities. Less woody biomass going to landfill means less methane and reduced CO2 emissions. Biomass ash is full of nutrients, so makes great compost for your garden.