rinnakkaispolttoon

Rinnakkaispolttoon is a Finnish term that translates to "co-firing" in English. It refers to the practice of burning two or more different types of fuel simultaneously in a combustion process. This is commonly applied in industrial settings, particularly in power plants and industrial boilers, to improve fuel flexibility, reduce costs, and enhance environmental performance.

The primary fuels used in co-firing are typically conventional fossil fuels like coal, but they can be supplemented with renewable or alternative fuels. These alternative fuels can include biomass (such as wood chips, agricultural waste, or energy crops), waste-derived fuels (like refuse-derived fuel or tires), or even hydrogen. The proportion of each fuel can be varied depending on availability, cost, and emissions targets.

Co-firing offers several advantages. It allows power plants to gradually transition towards a higher percentage of renewable energy without requiring a complete overhaul of existing infrastructure. By incorporating biomass or other renewable fuels, the net greenhouse gas emissions can be reduced compared to burning 100% fossil fuels. It can also help manage fuel price volatility and improve the overall efficiency of the combustion process. However, careful consideration must be given to the compatibility of different fuels, potential impacts on equipment, and the need for adjustments in combustion control and emissions monitoring systems.