The boiler plant will generate the steam and heat needed by Valio's Lapinlahti milk processing plant. The plant will be fuelled by wood chips and peat. Wood chips can eventually be used at 100 percent, but in the initial stage they will account for 50-60% of the fuel mix. The objective is to increase this share gradually.
"Valio is investing in the development of its energy generation structure and in the recovery of waste energy streams with the goal of improving energy efficiency, achieving lower emissions and increasing its use of domestic fuels. The use of domestic fuels will also benefit other players in the area," says Technical Manager Esa Maekipelto from Valio.
"When designing the plant, particular attention was paid to ensuring high plant availability and flexibility and securing the operations of the production plant under any circumstances in a changing fuel market. Replacing the old boiler with a new, modern biomass-fired boiler will also significantly increase the efficiency of steam generation," adds Product Line Director Olli Elo from MW Power.
The plant will be completed in spring 2013, after which it will operate around 8,500 hours per annum to produce approximately 140 GWh.
Valio is Finland's largest milk processor, with 15 production plants in Finland. The Lapinlahti plant, Valio's biggest cheese plant, produces cheese and whey products. In addition to the boiler plant, Valio is also investing in a new powder plant to be constructed in Lapinlahti.
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