Metso will convert the combustion technology at the Haapaniemi 2 power plant of Kuopion Energia in Kuopio, Finland, from pulverized peat-fired combustion to fluidized bed technology. Metso’s delivery scope covers all the modifications in the boiler required by fluidized bed technology, such as modifications in the pressure vessels, new air, ash and fuel systems inside the boiler house as well as new superheaters and economiser. The rebuild will be carried out during the summer and early autumn of 2013. The value of the order will not be disclosed.

The target of the project is to decrease the power plant’s emissions since the Industrial Emissions Directive will tighten the emission requirements for power boilers by the beginning of 2016. After the conversion, the plant will use practically no heavy fuel oil at all, and also resulting in lower fuel costs. In the future, the boiler will run on peat and wood with a mixing ratio that can be varied flexibly.

“This conversion will make us less dependent on energy peat that has suffered from delivery problems. It will also enable us to maintain the competitiveness of district heating in the future. The project makes it possible to significantly decrease CO₂ emissions and is thus in line with the Climate Policy of the City of Kuopio,” says Esa Lindholm, Managing Director at Kuopion Energia.

The order is included in Metso’s Pulp, Paper and Power third quarter 2012 orders received.

Kuopion Energia Oy produces electricity and district heat, sells electricity and handles the group’s administration services. In 2011, the company’s net sales amounted to EUR 68.3 million and it employed 113 people.