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UPM Tilhill is sole supplier of biomass to renewable energy boiler at paper mill

UPM Tilhill, the leading timber and forestry management company, will be the sole supplier of biomass* to the recently announced renewable energy boiler at the UPM Caledonian paper mill in Ayrshire, Scotland.

Consuming 350,000 tonnes per year of biomass the boiler will be in operation in 2009. The new power plant will significantly assist the Scottish Executive in achieving its 2010 national renewables generation target of 18%.

UPM Tilhill will source biomass from local supplies, and across the UK. Peter Whitfield, Timber Operations Director, UPM Tilhill said: "In line with the energy saving principles that underpin renewable energy projects we are keen to secure biomass supplies from private woodlands and forests in Scotland, and within the UK. In addition we are eager to source biomass from our key wood processing partners in Scotland. This means we can keep emissions and transportation to a minimum – thereby minimising impact on the environment."

Steve Lavery, Managing Director UPM Tilhill, said: "Wood is the ultimate renewable energy product and we are delighted to be involved in this project, which demonstrates how forestry and the paper industry work together to maximise the benefits of wood in all its various forms.

"Renewable energy is not just good for the environment, but good business too. This project is an extension of our involvement with other large bio energy projects, particularly UPM\\\'s other renewable energy boiler at Shotton Paper Mill, North Wales – and offers the UK\\\'s forest and woodland owners a new and exciting sustainable market for their timber."

The new power plant, due to start-up in the first quarter of 2009, will reduce UPM\\\'s carbon emissions by 75,000 tonnes annually. The company has reduced its production related fossil CO2 emissions by 25% during the last ten years by investing in biofuel based energy generation and in energy efficiency.

* Biomass can comprise any of the following wood elements: solid roundwood, branches; needles; stumps and brash, deadwood.

Press for further information contact:
Ruth Roy, Head of Marketing, 01892 861008/07771 940494, ruth.roy@upm-kymmene.com

UPM Tilhill Marketing. March 2007