Sodra Cell Varo to convert to biomass, biofuels to power Swedish pulp and paper plant

In Sweden, pulp producer Sodra Cell Varo announced an $83 million project to generate all its energy needs from timber biomass and biofuels. The project, which will be operational by 2010, reduces the bark needed for combustion and will convert surplus bark into biofuels, which in turn will replace the plant’s dependence on heating oil. The project is expected to generate additional energy equivalent to 200 GWh, or the energy required to supply power to 10,000 homes.

Sweden has consistently been a leader in European biofuels adoption. Svenska Statoil said that E85 sales increased 180 percent in February over the corresponding period in 2007, to 1.26 million gallons. Sales increased by 4 percent over January 2008. The company operates 280 ethanol stations in Sweden, offering E5 and E85 blends. The Swedish government has also signed technology cooperation agreements with Brazil, while Scandia has distributed a large number of ethanol-powered buses in Sao Paulo and other cities.

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