During the last three years, New Biomass Energy has made unprecedented breakthroughs in torrefaction technology that have been recognized around the world.

New Biomass Energy LLC announces that it has launched a joint venture with Solvay, an international chemical group, in order to expand its production of torrefied wood pellets as an innovative renewable energy source.

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With Solvay’s industrial expertise and equity contribution, the recently created Solvay Biomass Energy joint venture is positioned as the preeminent producer of torrefied wood pellets worldwide.

Torrefied wood, which handles and burns similar to coal, is produced through torrefaction, a roasting process that changes the chemical composition of the material. Compared to traditional wood pellets, torrefied pellets contain 35% more energy by weight, which yields significant logistical benefits. Torrefied wood pellets are an immediate and practical replacement for coal, enabling power plants to generate clean energy.

“New Biomass Energy’s advancements in the production of torrefied wood pellets prove that this material is a significant renewable energy solution available on a commercial scale. Our collaboration with Solvay will allow us to exponentially increase production capacity and develop new applications for the material. This new business propels the torrefaction industry forward,” said Neal Smaler, President of New Biomass Energy.

New Biomass Energy’s plant in Quitman, owned by BTH Quitman Hickory LLC, is the largest torrefaction facility in North America. This project will complete the expansion of the Quitman plant, bringing annual production capacity to 250,000 metric tons by the end of 2014. Solvay Biomass Energy will promote its torrefied wood pellets for electricity production in Europe and Asia.

About:

New Biomass Energy LLC is a green energy developer targeting high quality renewable energy opportunities that offer immediate contributions to the green economy. New Biomass Energy’s focus is on torrefaction of wood to be used by coal burning power plants to supplement the coal and thereby enhance the green aspects of the plants. New Biomass Energy developed and operates the first commercial scale wood torrefaction facility located in Quitman, Mississippi.www.newbiomass.com.

As an international chemical group, Solvay assists industries in finding and implementing ever more responsible and value-creating solutions. The Group is firmly committed to sustainable development and focused on innovation and operational excellence. Solvay serves diversified markets, generating 90% of its turnover in activities where it is one of the top three worldwide. The group is headquartered in Brussels, employs about 29,000 people in 55 countries and generated 12.4 billion euros in net sales in 2012. www.solvay.com

Solvay Energy Services is a global business unit of the Solvay Group, specialized in energy and CO₂ management, and in the implementation of new solutions to fight climate change. Located in 14 countries, Solvay Energy Services manages 1 billion euros of energy purchases and develops third parties activities in the field of energy and CO₂ efficiency, renewable energy and biofuels. Solvay Energy Services works for all major industrial sectors (automobile, metallurgy, paper, services, food, chemistry, etc.) to reduce energy costs and CO₂ footprint.

Source: New Biomass Energy