Majorca exports its first shipment of biomass to create fuel

The over 2'000 tons of biomass collected this year by the Treballs Agroforestals Insulars company were sent in this first shipment but plans are already in place to send another one towards the end of the year.

Miquel Pons, manager of the company said the biomass was “mostly a collection of forestal waste, from cleaning the local woods, and olive plantations. “The wood has been used in the industry, and the twigs will be used to create energy.” Pons explained that the decision to send the biomass to Italy is due to the facilities conceeded by the Italian government to the usage of the product. “Over there they get a grant to help with 30% of the costs, meaning the transport of the product is for free.” Pons added that the Balearic authorities are currently considering a proposition to approve measures to use this type of biodegradable fuel.
The company has not only plans to extend its exporting business to Girona, Sagunt and Valencia but also to establish contacts with property owners from Andraitx.

The area was recently devastated by one of the worst fires in years, and the company is considering asking permission to collect the forest remainings and convert them into fuel.

More help and support for companies related to biomass “The wood from the fire should not be wasted. It can be very useful, and be converted into fuel,” Pons said.
The Treeballs Agroforestals manager added that the usage and knowledge of this kind of fuel is still very limited in Majorca and they have asked the local government to be more supportive of institutions related to the biomass industry.

In total 4'000 tons of biomass were transported to Italy.
To the 2'000 from Majorca, which were transported by road to the Port of Alcudia, another 2'000 were added from Valencia.