Wood Residue Energy Conversion Systems Market

Individual, on-site interviews were conducted with management personnel in 79 sawmills throughout Oregon and California to determine the production, usage, and revenue patterns for their residue products. The mills surveyed represented approximately 16 percent of all mills and 29 percent of the annual lumber production of the two states. An “attitude preference” questionnaire was included in the survey to try to ascertain the relative desirability of various energy conversion system attributes. Other than chips for pulpmills, planer shavings were the most valuable residue product, and the only category in which no unused amount was reported. The most troublesome residue was redwood bark, of which a fair portion is totally unused. Wide variations in revenue received per unit were reported in all categories, with median values tending toward the lower end of the scales indicating greater numbers of sellers receiving lower prices than high ones. A strong correlation was discovered between the percent of lumber kiln-dried, mill size, and the current use of hog fuel boilers. Pollution free disposal of excess waste was rated as the most important energy conversion system feature, followed closely by lowest capital cost, low maintenance, familiar process, ability to use wet residue, high efficiency, and no skilled operator required.

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