Biomass boilers generate renewable heat and hot water by burning biomass such as wood, rather than fossil fuels such as natural gas. The boiler at Gulworthy will be powered by wood pellets. This is a carbon neutral process as wood emits the same amount of CO2 when burned as it absorbed during its growth. Unlike fossil fuels, where supplies are limited, wood also provides a renewable and sustainable source of energy.
A monitor in the school building will enable pupils to keep track of how much energy the boiler is generating and the amount of carbon dioxide they have saved to date.
The Co-operative has invested £1m installing solar panels at over 100 UK schools since 2007, including, in Devon, at Braunton School; Honiton Community College and Silverton and Willowbrook primary schools in Exeter. It is now investing a further £1m to help a further 80 schools install solar panels, biomass boilers, ground source heat pumps and wind turbines.
Sarah Klueter, The Co-operative’s senior community manager, said: “Installing this biomass boiler at Gulworthy Primary School is a great way to capture the attention of children, staff, and parents on the issue of climate change.
“As well as providing renewable heat and hot water that will reduce the school’s carbon dioxide emissions, we hope the biomass boiler will inspire the next generation to live more sustainable lifestyles.”
Headteacher Melody Nicholls added: “It is fantastic to be selected to receive this generous grant from The Co-operative.’
“This biomass boiler will make our school more sustainable so that we can set an example to the wider community and create an impressive resource for educating pupils about renewable energy.”
