Case Studies
From Tree Waste to Energy
Enwave's advanced waste-to-energy system greatly reduces both landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the use of fossil fuels for heat and power.
Opportunity
Clean reliable energy from wood waste
With C$3.5 million in federal funding to expand this innovative, energy-efficient system, district energy is a key part of Prince Edward Island’s official energy plan. Enwave’s Charlottetown system also offers the added benefit of converting waste materials into usable energy. Previously dependent on imported fuel, the province is now able to repurpose local waste and biomass – it’s cost effective, better for the environment and improves reliability for customers.
Enwave in PEI
Solution
Biomass brings healthy benefits
Working together with regional governments and other contractors, Enwave buys municipal solid waste (garbage) and biomass (tree stock, sawdust or scrap lumber) to be used as sources of fuel. The materials are then converted and delivered as reliable, low-carbon energy to residential, commercial and institutional customers. On an island, where space is finite, reducing waste that would otherwise go to landfill is an important benefit. As the system can easily switch between fuel sources as needed, it also boosts the province’s resiliency.
Results
New federal investment will expand the system
For customers, district energy improves reliability and keeps costs stable, often reducing heating costs by 10% or more. As customers connect directly to Enwave’s plant, they avoid capital investment and the responsibility of maintaining their own equipment, which can substantially reduce operating expenses. The environmental benefits of using district energy also add up, with lower emissions that maintain air quality and a 90% reduction in municipal landfilling volume.
Converts biomass and solid waste into energy
For every dollar spent on biomass fuel, 70 cents stays in the economy
Reduces regional landfilling volume by 90%
"Biomass is an environmentally responsible way to make use of sustainable fuels that would otherwise go to waste - it's good for customers and for Prince Edward Island."
By the Numbers
145
customers served
90%
reduction in municipal landfilling volume
10%
typical reduction in heating costs with district energy
26,200
metric tons of municipal solid waste and 36,000 metric tons of biomass repurposed annually
6.5
million gallons of fuel oil displaced every year by using municipal solid waste and biomass
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