A revolution in heating! Check what the Ministry of Climate is changing

The new regulations aim to limit the sale and burning of polluted solid fuels, which will contribute to improving air quality. What does this mean for households and small heating installations?

New regulations regarding woody biomass – purpose of the regulation

The Ministry of Climate and Environment has proposed changes to prevent the sale and burning of contaminated wood biomass, such as pellets and wood briquettes. The draft regulation focuses on eliminating fuels containing furniture or plastic waste, which are harmful to the environment and health. The new standards will cover households and heating installations with a capacity of up to 1 MW.

Quality standards for pellets and briquettes – what will change?

The regulation sets out detailed quality parameters for pellets and briquettes, such as moisture, ash, nitrogen and sulfur content. These standards are based on the expertise of the Institute of Environmental Protection and the Institute of Fuel and Energy Technology, as well as on the PN-EN 17225 standards.

Standards for wood briquettes:

• Moisture content: max. 12%.

• Ash content: max. 3%.

• Grain density: min. 0.9 g/cm³

• Calorific value: min. 15.5 MJ/kg

• Maximum contents: nitrogen (0.3%), sulfur (0.04%), chlorine (0.02%).

Standards for wood pellets:

• Diameter: 6–8 mm, length: 3.15–40 mm

• Moisture content: max. 10%.

• Ash content: max. 1.2%. (0.7% for class 3, 4, 5 devices)

• Mechanical strength: min. 97.5 percent

• Calorific value: min. 16.5 MJ/kg

• Maximum contents: nitrogen (0.3%), sulfur (0.04%), chlorine (0.02%).

Why are new standards being introduced?

The purpose of introducing the standards is not only to reduce pollutant emissions, but also to meet the EU requirements contained in Directive 2016/2284. The new regulations are part of the “Clean Air” program and allow for obtaining EU funds under the National Reconstruction Plan (KPO).

What will the average user gain?

So far, woody biomass, including pellets and briquettes, has not been subject to monitoring or quality control. The new regulations will standardize standards, which will translate into better operation of heating devices and improved air quality. For consumers, this means greater certainty as to the quality of the fuel they buy and the possibility of using more ecological solutions.

When will the new regulations come into force?

The project is currently at the review stage. The Ministry announces that after consultations and acceptance, the regulations will be introduced, providing consumers with higher standards of wood fuels and contributing to the fight against smog.

New quality standards for pellets and briquettes are another step towards a cleaner environment and a more conscious energy policy. Is Poland ready for changes?