Glove plants turn to biomass boilers as energy costs climb

Six member glove factories have converted steam generation to biomass boilers this year, using rubberwood residues, palm kernel shell and wood chips as fuel. The motivation is straightforward: steam is the largest energy input in a dipping line, and fuel oil and gas prices have made the operating case difficult at current glove prices.

A biomass boiler is not a drop-in replacement. It needs fuel storage, a handling system, ash management and a water treatment regime that suits the fuel. Sites that have made the switch report a payback period of three to four years on the capital cost, assuming fuel is sourced within 150 kilometres.

The emissions picture is more nuanced than a simple claim of carbon neutrality. Biomass combustion still emits particulates, and the net benefit depends on how the residue would otherwise have been used. Plants that have replaced open burning of rubberwood offcuts with controlled combustion report a clear improvement in local air quality.

The council's green technology funding window has supported four of the six conversions, covering up to 30 percent of eligible equipment cost.

The council publishes these notes for members and registered buyers. Figures quoted in market updates are industry estimates and should be verified before a contract is priced.