Pellet analysis information
Wood pellet fuel is a highly variable product. Not only do different species burn differently and produce different by-products, but there are both regional and seasonal variations in pellets produced with similar species.
Maine Energy Systems has started a quarterly pellet analysis program with Robert Rice of the University of Maine School of Forestry Resources to more fully understand the attributes of pellets produced in the northern New England region. Using insights gained from our European partners, we have started the testing program with a more complete analysis of pellet composition and combustion behavior than has been customary in our marketplace. We have learned from our European partners that the proportions of many different elements within the wood pressed into pellets leads to very different combustion behaviors and by-products.
Maine Energy Systems will publish its quarterly findings for samples of pellets tested from three Maine mills, Corinth Wood Pellets, Maine Woods Pellets, and Strong Wood Pellets, and from Energex of Lac Megantic, Quebec, whose pellets are produced from feedstock largely imported to Quebec from Maine.