Btu-substitution with liquid biofuels can make EPA compliance a net plus for coal-burning utilities, according to Clean Energy Pathways. The company backs that assertion with a free one-day workshop for coal-burning utilities entitled, "The Care and Feeding of Boiler Tubes."

The workshop explains how Btu-substitution with liquid biofuels can be coupled with infrared thermal monitoring to optimize boiler efficiency, while aiding compliance with the Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS), Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS2), the Mercury and Air Toxics Standards (MATS) and Cross-State Air Pollution Rule (CSAPR).

Led by Wayne Ruddock, a professional infrared thermographer and instructor with 30 years' experience, the workshops are aimed at plant management, fuel procurement, environmental compliance and maintenance officers, particularly those in the 28 states affected by CSAPR.

"One purpose of the workshop is to explain how compliance with RPS, RFS2, MATS and CSAPR can actually work to the utilities' advantage if liquid biofuels are substituted for coal," explained Ruddock.

"Tests have shown these fuels reduce Sox, CO2 and fly ash in proportion to the amount substituted for coal Btu's. Liquid biofuels also reduce soot and slag buildup on boiler tubes, which improves heat transfer efficiency, maintenance and operating costs.

"We will also explain how thermal imaging is used to monitor boiler tubes for slag/soot buildup and temperature, enabling a plant to make appropriate adjustments to operate the boiler in its 'sweet spot' for highest efficiency."

Clean Energy Pathways markets custom-blended biofuels for use as a Btu-substitute in coal-fired utility furnaces and diesel-powered equipment. Available as B20, B100 or other custom blends, the fuels meet the EPA's RFS2 mandate for use of renewable fuel, and create carbon tax credits.

The water-soluble B100 fuel is environmentally friendly and yields 50 percent higher Btu content per cubic foot than PRB coal.

These fuels also qualify for the Renewable Electric Producer Tax Credit of 2.2 cents per kilowatt, or 22 cents per gallon based on 10 kilowatts per gallon.

Tested as a coal substitute in a circulating fluidized bed boiler, the new fuel reduced coal consumption by 10 percent, in turn reducing the sulfur dioxide and CO2 emissions from coal by 10 percent.