We Energies’ biomass-fueled power plant began its commercial operations on November 8, 2013 after successfully completing all preliminary testing and commissioning duties.
The plant is located in Rothschild, Wisconsin on the same site as Domtar Corporation’s paper mill. The wood, wood waste and sawdust created by the mill will be used to generate up to 50 megawatts (MW) of electricity. The steam produced by the plant will help support the mill’s sustainable papermaking operations, which will help improve energy efficiency and overall emissions by more than 30 percent.
Gale Klappa, We Energies chairman, president and chief executive officer, has commented, “The addition of the biomass plant enables us to produce renewable energy on demand. That benefit is simply not available with solar or wind generation.” She went on to explain that Wisconsin resources have fueled the renewable energy project. Over 400 workers built the plant and approximately 150 permanent jobs will be created as a result.
Wisconsin law mandates that by 2015, all statewide utilities must use renewable energy for at least 10 percent of their retail customer’s needs. Now that the biomass plant is in full operation, We Energies expects to secure enough renewable energy until 2022.