At present, renewable energy are gaining increasing importance due to the need to reduce emissions of polluting gases and dependence on fossil fuels. Among them, the biomass has taken on a relevant role, especially in regions with an abundance of raw materials, as is the case of GaliciaIn this community, a balanced energy mix that includes biomass is key.
So much so that in Galicia, where solar photovoltaic energy is not always efficient due to its rainfall regime, efforts have been focused on promoting the use of biomass. In this context, the Xunta de Galicia developed the Biomass Boost Strategy with an ambitious goal: to promote and facilitate the installation of biomass boilers in homes, businesses and public administrations from 2010 to 2014.
The balance of this plan was positive, since by the end of 2017, had been supported Installation of more than 4.000 biomass boilers throughout the region, contributing significantly to the reduction of CO2 emissions.
Strategy to promote biomass in Galicia
The Biomass Promotion Strategy was created with the aim of promoting the use of biomass as a renewable energy source in Galicia. With a budget of 3,3 millones de euros Initially, the aim was to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and greenhouse emissions.
This strategy was not only aimed at households, but also at more than 200 public administrations, non-profit entities and Galician companies, which also benefited from the aid. The economic impact translates into an estimated saving of 3,2 million euros annually in energy expenditure and a reduction in consumption of 8 million liters of diesel, which in turn contributed to less pollution.
Among the most significant achievements is the reduction of 24.000 tons of CO2 per year, which positions Galicia as a region committed to sustainability and energy transition. Biomass, being a renewable energy source, also contributes to the revitalization of the forestry sector, facilitating the sustainable exploitation of resources.
What are biomass boilers?
The biomass boilers They are devices that use Natural fuel, such as wood pellets, olive stones, forest residues or nutshells, among others. These fuels allow heat to be generated in an efficient and ecological way for heating homes and buildings, as well as for the production of hot water for sanitary use.
They are an ideal alternative to fossil fuels such as diesel or gas, as they are more economical and environmentally friendly. In addition, the use of local biomass, such as forest waste, promotes the circular economy in rural communities. For this reason, the use of biomass boilers is highly promoted, specifically in regions such as Galicia, where forest resources are abundant.
The cost of a biomass boiler can vary considerably. In the Galician market, its prices range from 500 Euros for basic models up to 3.000 Euros or more for more advanced systems. Although the initial investment may be higher than other systems, in the long term it turns out to be more profitable due to the low cost of fuel and the aids available for its installation.
Benefits of biomass boilers in Galicia
The use of biomass in Galicia for heating and thermal energy generation has multiple benefits:
- Economic savings: According to official estimates, those who opted for biomass have achieved significant savings on their energy bills. The average savings are estimated at between 40% and 60% compared to diesel or electricity consumption.
- Emission reduction: Using biomass instead of fossil fuels contributes to reduce CO2 emissions into the atmosphere, which helps combat climate change.
- Support to the local economy: Galicia is rich in forest resources. The sustainable exploitation of these resources to generate energy revitalizes rural areas and generates employment in sectors such as pellet production and waste management.
- Less energy dependence: Biomass reduces energy dependence on imported fossil fuels, strengthening regional energy security.
In Galicia, the installation of biomass boilers has been key to promoting a more sustainable and local energy model. Furthermore, the continuous subsidies from the Galician government have encouraged new installations not only in the residential sector, but also in companies and public bodies.
The Ministry of Economy, Employment and Industry has launched various calls for support for the installation of biomass boilers for more than a decade. For example, in 2017, 11,7 millones de euros to promote this type of installations, with a significant impact in rural areas, where more than 1.700 boilers were installed that year.
In this way, not only is energy efficiency promoted, but the management of the resources is improved. Galician mountains in a sustainable way, avoiding forest fires and producing clean energy. In turn, biomass reinforces the value chains linked to the production of pellets and biomaterials, consolidating Galicia as a pioneer region in the energy transition.
At the legislative level, access to subsidies can cover up to 75% of the total investment cost, which has made it easier for many Galician SMEs and rural families to benefit from these systems.
The promotion of renewable energy remains a priority in Galicia, and strategies such as this one seek not only to improve energy efficiency, but also to create a more sustainable environment and protect the region's natural resources.