Heating energy sources

Like the wind, the sun, water and the heat of the earth, wood is a renewable energy. As such, it is a necessary part of sustainable development. Using wood as a fuel offers is extremely beneficial for sustainable forest management, a country’s energy independence, and our planet’s future. Our expanding forests are huge reserves of energy and form what are referred to as ‘carbon sinks’.

However, this growth is sometimes the result of the abandonment of farmland. Left unchecked, forests can grow weak and fall prey to fires that devastate thousands of hectares every summer. That is why clearing away dead vegetation in forests is important for good management. Instead of leaving it on forest floors, it can be collected and used to heat homes and, by the same token, help to protect forests. France’s forests cover 28% of the country’s total surface area. Each year, they grow by 85 million m3. An abundant resource, since 45% is left unharvested.

pelletS : An innovative and extremely efficient fuel made from sawdust compacted under high pressure, pellets are both ecological (since they are made from a byproduct of lumber production) and cost-effective (thanks to their high combustion efficiency and low manufacturing cost).

GAS : Because storing wood or pellets is not easy in the city, Brisach has come up with a solution that strikes a balance between promoting renewable energies and enjoying a fire in one’s home.

Comparison of costs per energy source for the general public (euro cents per kWh, in France)