Industrial Biomass Boilers in Ireland – Rules & Permits

Boilers Under 400kW Thermal Input

• These smaller systems typically fall outside of the Medium Combustion Plant Directive (MCPD).
• If burning only clean, untreated wood waste generated on-site, they may not require an EPA waste licence.
• Planning permission may still be required, particularly if installing a tall external flue.
• Local authority chimney height approval may be required under the Air Pollution Act 1987.
• SSRH (Support Scheme for Renewable Heat) is available if emissions comply with PM ≤ 30g/GJ and NOx ≤ 150g/GJ.

Boilers Between 400kW and 999kW Thermal Input

• These boilers are still below MCPD thresholds but may fall under greater scrutiny.
• An air emissions licence from the local authority may be required.
• If burning waste wood from your own site, a waste facility permit is generally not required.
• Clean fuel compliance is essential. Treated, painted, or demolition wood requires a full waste licence.
• Stack height and dispersion modelling may be requested to ensure emissions do not impact nearby receptors.
• SSRH grants are available for compliant installations.

Boilers 1MW and Above

• MCPD applies: all systems ≥1MW must be registered and meet specific ELVs (Emission Limit Values).
• EPA involvement is likely. You may require both an MCPD registration and a local air emissions permit.
• Annual extractive emissions testing is mandatory.
• SSRH grants still apply if the system meets the scheme’s emissions standards.
• Planning permission and environmental impact review are typically required.
• Only clean wood waste is permitted unless licensed for mixed/hazardous waste.

Emissions and Fuel Standards

• SSRH standards: PM ≤ 30 g/GJ, NOx ≤ 150 g/GJ (net heat input).
• Emissions must be proven via RHI-style emissions certificates or independent test reports.
• MDF and chipboard dust are considered clean wood for regulatory purposes, as long as the material is uncontaminated and originates from on-site production. The presence of binder or resin in man-made boards does not disqualify them as clean fuel.
• Treated wood, including demolition timber, fence posts, or any wood containing substances like creosote, is not considered clean wood and requires additional licensing to burn.

Chimney and Flue Requirements

• All flues must meet Irish Building Regulations Part J and be sized for adequate dispersion.
• Chimney height approval may be required under the Air Pollution Act.
• Visual smoke must not exceed Ringelmann Shade 1.
• No odour, droplets, mist or visible fume may affect neighbouring sites.

Conclusion Whether you’re a small workshop or a major manufacturer, understanding the regulatory environment for biomass boilers in Ireland is key. At Ranheat, we support Irish customers through the permitting process, helping you access SSRH funding and remain compliant. Contact us today to find out how we can design a system that meets both your heating needs and the latest environmental rules.

Get in touch with Ranheat Engineering:
Phone: 01604 750005
Email: sales@ranheat.com
Website: www.ranheat.com