Biomass Feasibility Project Final Report - Xcel Energy

Processing Yard
Figure A-5: Feedstock to Processing Yard Screen
Some biomass feedstocks may be shipped to a processing yard prior to shipment to a storage
facility or power plant. There are two general models for processing yards. The first would be
local processing yards where materials are hauled a short distance to a local processing facility
before shipment to the plant or storage. Instances of this may include logging residues
transported a short distance to a central yard where it can be chipped and loaded for
transport. The other model for a processing yard is one that is relatively close and accessible to
the power plant, and often under the control of the power plant. Such processing yards may be
advantageous to facilities with little room for processing or storage. For example, in one known
proposal, two separate facilities plan on using a single processing yard due to their inability to
store significant quantities of fuel on-site. The partnership will also allow each individual project
to capture some economies of scale.
Identifying Effective Biomass Strategies: Page A-7
Quantifying Minnesota’s Resources and Evaluating Future Opportunities