The New Zealand government has expressed its support for a new project that will establish the country’s first large-scale biomass torrefaction facility in the Central North Island. Developed by Carbona, this plant is seen as a key step in New Zealand’s shift towards a sustainable, low-emissions energy future, while also boosting regional economic growth and creating jobs, reports Bioenergy Insight.
The facility will produce 180,000 tonnes of torrefied biomass annually, helping New Zealand meet its goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050. Discussions are currently in progress with Genesis Energy to determine the feasibility of using this biomass to power the Huntly Power Station as a replacement for coal.
Once operational, the plant is expected to generate 110 to 130 full-time jobs, providing significant economic benefits to the region. The project is backed by local Iwi, wood processing businesses, and international investors, demonstrating strong local and global support.
“Torrefied biomass is a potential game-changer for New Zealand’s energy sector and industrial heat consumers,” said David McGregor, director at Carbona. He explained that torrefied biomass has a 30% higher energy density than traditional wood pellets and is well-suited for existing coal-fired boilers.
Carbona has partnered with Austrian technology providers Polytechnik and Andritz, who have recently commissioned a similar facility in Finland. These companies have existing operations in New Zealand, bringing valuable experience to the project.
The facility will not only serve domestic needs but also open up export opportunities. The global demand for torrefied biomass is increasing, with Japan alone forecasting a demand of 15 to 20 million tonnes annually. Carbona estimates that New Zealand’s sustainable demand could exceed 1 million tonnes per year, indicating potential for future growth.
The project’s design phase is scheduled to begin in mid-2025, with construction starting in early 2026. Product commissioning is expected by late 2027, and commercial deliveries will commence in early 2028.
“Once operational, the facility will contribute an estimated 439,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent in carbon savings per year,” McGregor added, highlighting the project’s impact on New Zealand’s emissions reduction targets.
This initiative is seen as a demonstration of New Zealand’s leadership in renewable energy innovation and strengthens its position as a supplier of sustainable fuel alternatives for both local and international markets.
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