The City of Grand Marais is at an advanced stage in developing a hot water district heating system fueled with abundant local waste biomass. Key motivations include stabilization and reduction of long-term energy costs for propane and fuel oil, mitigating wildfire danger, creation of local jobs, retention of energy dollars the local economy, and reduced carbon dioxide emissions. Key factors for success in developing a community biomass district heating system will be discussed, including approaches to planning, engineering, marketing, contracts, communications and local leadership.
Mark Spurr, FVB Energy