Residential solid biofuels combustion – continuous improvement over time

Jan 2025
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Combustion of solid biofuels in stoves and boilers (<100 kW) contributes significantly to space and domestic water heating in residential dwellings in many countries over the globe. It provides a non-electrified source of energy for space and water heating which helps maintain the reliability of electrical grids that will face growing demands in future from different sectors. It can also support regional energy security for many communities through the use of locally and sustainably sourced biomass resources. It can be combined with other heating technologies, e.g. air-to-air heat pumps and solar heating, to meet the heat demand in an optimum way throughout the whole year.

Types of solid biofuels and appliances commonly used in residential heating applications include firewood in wood stoves, inserts and wood log boilers and wood pellets in pellet stoves and pellet boilers.

Residential solid biofuels combustion – continuous improvement over time is the second in a series of factsheets prepared by IEA Bioenergy. These factsheets aim to inform and engage readers by addressing the key issues related to bioenergy, fostering greater awareness of its potential and challenges. Through these resources, IEA Bioenergy seeks to bridge the knowledge gap and promote the adoption of bioenergy solutions in the context of a global shift towards renewable energy.

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