Since the plant went into operation in 2011, noise from environmental activists in the media has caused a lot of confusion about the permitting, operations and compliance of this plant. But true to its values, Seneca reached well beyond its regulatory obligations during the break-in period of the plant’s operations and took proactive steps to ensure that the plant operates at maximum efficiency for clean air results. In fact, Seneca dedicated approximately 25% of the plant’s total capital cost solely to emission control equipment and technology.
“Caring for our environment and our surroundings is a priority for Seneca, as evidenced by our desire to generate clean energy,” said Todd Payne, Seneca Vice President and General Manager.
During LRAPA’s permitting review process, the EPA also rigorously examined the biomass plant, most notably at an unannounced inspection of the facility back in June, 2014. In its report, the EPA noted many of the plant’s unique features that make it the cleanest of its kind. One of these practices is Seneca’s unique ability to identify, segregate and mix wood biomass fuel based on its moisture content in order to deliver optimal fuel for burning. This process all happens in a tightly controlled environment and the EPA cited how this practice allows this facility to operate in a much more stable manner than other comparable facilities.
The emission control technology at this plant includes a multiclone cyclonic separator, a 4-field electrostatic precipitator and a continuous emission monitoring system, all of which allows the plant to far exceed minimum air quality standards. All biomass material fed to the facility utilize a fully enclosed system including truck dump, conveyors and fuel storage building. All fuel handling ducts to one of two baghouses to remove particulate emissions with 99.9% efficiency.
In addition to producing electricity, Seneca uses steam heat from this cogeneration facility for drying its finished lumber. Seneca also strategically located the plant so it has an ideal connection to the local power grid. All of the plant’s renewable electricity is sold locally to the Eugene Water and Electric Board (EWEB). As an added bonus, the facility assists EWEB and the State of Oregon in meeting the Renewable Portfolio Standard of 25% renewable energy by the year 2025.
