Loiste Lämpö, a district heating company in North East Finland, is reducing its use of fossil fuels and investing in renewable energy solutions. One of its most significant steps is the conversion of a 40-megawatt oil boiler to run on wood pellets. CTI is carrying out the project on a turnkey basis, utilizing the existing plant structure and integrating it with a new fuel system. The solution is both economical and environmentally friendly – and it supports the increasingly strict ESG requirements set by investors.
Loiste’s goal is to completely phase out fossil fuels, including in backup power production.
“The old boiler is in good technical condition and has relatively few operating hours. Instead of building a new one, we are reusing the existing framework and making the necessary modifications. This saves costs and also avoids emissions caused by producing new steel,” explains Timo Huusko, Sales Director at CTI.
Converting the Boiler to Biofuel
CTI’s delivery includes modifications to the boiler structure, a new burner, ducting, piping, and a completely new fuel system. A silo will be built on the plant site, from which pellets are transported through grinding equipment to the burner.
Before flue gases are released through the stack, they are cleaned with high-efficiency dust and soot filters to minimize emissions.
“We use proven grinding technology as part of our own developed equipment package, ensuring full compatibility and reliable operation as part of the existing plant. This way, we can guarantee a tested and dependable process for the customer,” Huusko adds.
Integrated Automation and Ongoing Support
The pellet boiler will be connected directly to Loiste Lämpö’s main automation system. No separate interfaces are needed, which simplifies operation and reduces lifecycle costs.
CTI also emphasizes its maintenance and support services – critical spare parts are available from Haapavesi, and Finnish-language technical support is close at hand.
“If something happens, help is available quickly and in your own language. The customer can rely on a fully functional solution and a single point of contact,” says Huusko.
Project Manager Antti Mäntynen notes that the schedule brought some surprises.
“Installation of third-party equipment was delayed because there were no drawings of the old chimney foundations. We resolved the issue with a test excavation and found a solution that ensures the plant’s safety,” he explains.
Despite the challenges, the project is progressing well.
“This project combines several types of equipment, and integrating them has been an interesting task. Loiste is following the work closely, but there’s a strong sense of trust and open communication,” Mäntynen says.
A Sustainable Solution for Customer and Investors Alike
Loiste Lämpö reports its ESG performance to its owners, who closely monitor progress toward carbon neutrality. CTI’s solution directly supports this goal: emissions are reduced significantly, and oil dependency decreases.
“You could say we’re doing our part together with the customer to cut emissions. At the same time, this is a much more financially sound alternative than a completely new plant investment,” summarizes Huusko.
Mäntynen highlights the project’s broader significance:
“It’s great to see the shift from fossil fuels to renewables. Projects like this show the direction the entire industry is heading,” he concludes.