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| BERC's College and University Experience |
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 BERC’s combination of capabilities and experience uniquely qualify it to study and evaluate woody-biomass energy potential and implement cost-effective, sustainable projects for college and university campuses. The following is a brief outline of BERC’s broad expertise and experience in this field of biomass energy.On-the-ground experience. BERC has a comprehensive body of knowledge about the full spectrum of biomass-fueled heat, power, and combined heat and power (CHP) technology based on project involvement at both the study and implementation levels. Expertise and focus on sustainable wood fuel supply. BERC has full-time staff devoted to wood fuel supply. The biomass resource supply staff has developed a sound methodology for studying the actual availability of wood residues for energy projects on a county-by-county basis anywhere in the United States. BERC has also been commissioned to carry out macro-level assessments, such as the Vermont Wood Fuel Supply Study. Both regional and local fuel supply assessments are critical components to studying the viability and sustainability of any biomass energy project. Learn more about BERC’s Biomass Resource Supply Services. In-depth knowledge and experience in central energy systems. BERC has led and been involved in studies and implementations of wood energy projects for college and university campuses, community district heating systems, health-care campus systems, and public housing developments. BERC’s founder, Timothy Maker, is the author of Heating Communities with Renewable Fuel: The Municipal Guide to Biomass District Energy, a joint publication of the US Department of Energy & Natural Resources Canada. Leadership in analyzing wood energy projects. BERC has developed and routinely uses an engineering-level, comprehensive life cycle cost analysis tool specifically designed for studying biomass energy project potential at each unique site. The analysis tool has been used successfully in assisting a number of college and institutional campuses around the country in evaluating the best biomass system options available to them, and helping them to understand the pros and cons of each system configuration. Coordinating efforts with clean energy and renewable energy funds. The organization regularly coordinates efforts with clean-energy and renewable-energy fund managers. Commonly funded by a tax on electricity sales, state and regional energy appropriations, or revolving loan investments, these funds are a significant source of real and potential support for biomass energy projects. BERC has assisted numerous colleges and universities in securing clean energy funding in pursuit of sustainable biomass energy initiatives. Professional experience working with state, regional, and federal agencies. Over the years BERC has enjoyed many successful partnerships with national agencies such as the US Forest Service, Department of Agriculture, Department of Energy, National Energy Technology Laboratory, US Endowment for Forests and Communities, Natural Resources Canada, and more. In addition, the organization has fostered working relationships with many state departments and agencies that provide support on a more local level to the institutions and communities BERC assists with the realization of their renewable energy goals. Back to main college and university page |
