Overview
St-Thomas is a 9.4 MW biomass power plant located in Canada. It converts biomass into electricity, contributing to the country's renewable energy portfolio.
St-Thomas is a biomass power plant located in Canada, with a capacity of 9.4 megawatts. It operates as a renewable energy facility, utilizing biomass as its primary fuel source to generate electricity. The plant is currently operational and plays a role in Canada's energy mix, supporting the transition toward cleaner energy sources. As a biomass facility, St-Thomas operates under Canada's federal and provincial environmental regulations, which include emission standards for air pollutants and greenhouse gases. Biomass power plants are subject to regulations that ensure sustainable fuel sourcing and efficient combustion. The technology employed is typical for small-scale biomass plants, often using direct combustion or gasification to convert organic materials into electricity. The plant's capacity of 9.4 MW places it in the small-scale category for power generation. Its location in Canada benefits from the country's abundant biomass resources, including forestry and agricultural residues. The facility contributes to local energy security and supports the reduction of fossil fuel dependence, aligning with Canada's climate goals.
Environmental context
Biomass power generation involves combustion of organic materials, which releases CO2, but is considered carbon-neutral if sourced sustainably. The plant's small capacity (9.4 MW) limits its overall emissions footprint. Typical biomass plants are located near fuel sources. Canadian regulations under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) and provincial air quality standards govern emissions of particulate matter, NOx, and SOx.
Frequently asked questions
The St-Thomas biomass power plant is located in Canada, with coordinates approximately 46.06° N, 73.26° W.
The St-Thomas biomass power plant has a capacity of 9.4 megawatts (MW), classifying it as a small-scale power generation facility.
The St-Thomas plant uses biomass as its primary fuel, which includes organic materials such as wood chips, agricultural residues, or other biological matter.
Biomass power plants in Canada are regulated under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) and provincial environmental laws, which set emission limits for pollutants like NOx, SOx, and particulate matter, as well as requirements for sustainable fuel sourcing.
Biomass power generation is considered carbon-neutral if the fuel is sourced sustainably, as the CO2 released during combustion is offset by the CO2 absorbed during plant growth. However, it can produce air pollutants such as particulate matter and NOx, which are regulated to minimize environmental impact.