Alternative ignition system report

Key challenges

Drax is the UK’s largest renewable power station. It fires biomass pellets, consisting of low grade woody fibres sourced from forests. RJM was tasked with carrying out a study to identify the feasibility and cost benefit analysis of alternative boiler ignition systems and preparing a Mill Improvements Report.

RJM Solution

RJM’s Report evaluated the benefits of plasma-based ignitions systems that significantly reduce Opex, as heavy fuel oil is no longer required. Also, eliminating the use of fossil fuel would enable Drax to be completely carbon-neutral.

Results

These reports are enabling the plant’s management team to make informed decisions about how best to improve critical aspects of operational procedures, set against Drax’s stated ambition to be carbon negative by 2030.