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Batelle chosen for Sault energy project

Batelle will develop a plan for a wood-based bioenergy project in Sault Ste. Marie. The Ohio-based research-and-development organization was chosen from five applicants following a request for proposals sent out by the Sault Ste.

Batelle will develop a plan for a wood-based bioenergy project in Sault Ste. Marie.

The Ohio-based research-and-development organization was chosen from five applicants following a request for proposals sent out by the Sault Ste. Marie Innovation Centre on behalf of the city and its other partners.

Battelle will develop a business case and implementation plan for the installation of a pyrolysis plant in the region. The proposed plant would process 20 dry tons of biomass per day to produce bio-oil, which would be converted by a partner organization to produce 10.5 million pounds of bio-polyol per year, which alternatively can be used to produce an average of ¾ MW of electric power to the Sault Ste. Marie transmission grid.

The bio-polyol will be sold to produce foams, insulation, coatings, and other high-margin commercial products.

“The development of bio-based energy to help communities thrive is a reflection of what Battelle does best,” said Kathya Mahadevan, Batelle’s alternative energy business line manager, in a news release. “With an abundant supply of feedstock and our small-scale pyrolysis technology, we’re confident in the reality of a sustainable and productive plant.”

If the project proceeds to plant implementation, the proposed system would create an estimated 33 local jobs.

The development of a bioenergy project was part of the city’s Smart Energy Plan, approved in 2012.