This case study features a successful farm-scale community heating scheme at Umberleigh Barton Farm using short rotation coppice (SRC) willow as a fuel source. The project has been cost-effective and provided a range of benefits, including energy self-sufficiency, reduced carbon emissions, and potential biodiversity enhancements. This is a follow up to the original case study carried out n 2015.
The study examines the challenges faced in establishing and managing the SRC willow plantation, including the need for hard standing space to store and dry rods prior to chipping, the capacity of the fuel store, and the access to wetter areas of the plantation.
Also explored is the harvesting and chipping process, and the issues that have arisen with the biomass heating system.
Overall, the case study demonstrates that SRC willow can be a viable and sustainable energy source for farms and rural communities.
Read the full case study: SRC Willow – self supply and use in a farm-scale community heating scheme.
