An economic analysis of wood chip fuel production

Abstract

A study was conducted to determine the costs and problems associated with the small scale production of dry wood chips suitable for space heating purposes. Chips were harvested using small logging equipment and stored in a prototype storage and drying facility. An economic analysis which summarizes the costs of harvesting, storage and drying, and delivery is presented along with a discussion of the viability of the system as a local business venture. Key Words: economic analysis, space heating, wood chip fuel, wood chip harvesting, wood chip processing.