Finding and Selecting an Installer

The design and construction of a commercial scale biomass system (typically above 45kW) requires an experienced installer with a broad range of technical and construction expertise.

Role of the Installer

Typically the installer will take full responsibility for the selection, design, installation and integration of all the main components of a biomass installation (so called ‘design and build’ procurement model), including:

  • The construction of a fuel silo/store
  • Fuel handling equipment such as sweep arms, walking floors and transfer augers that move fuel from the silo automatically into the biomass boiler
  • Buffer tanks (often referred to as accumulator vessels) to store hot water, even out demand on the boilers and help meet peak heat demands
  • RHI compliant heat meters for claiming payments, calculating heat use and paying fuel suppliers
  • A biomass boiler (often supplied in parts and assembled on site)
  • A flue, cyclone and its flue gas recirculation system compatible with a biomass boiler
  • Mechanical installation works; pipework, controls, valves and pumps
  • Plate heat exchangers
  • Electrical installation works and controls and integration into any existing BMS systems.
  • District heating connections to heat user at the headers in the building(s) to be heated
  • All civils and construction works associated with the above
  • Responsibility for meeting emissions, regulatory and health safety requirements
  • Warranties and maintenance services

Selecting a Biomass Installer

Care must be taken in selecting your biomass installer to ensure they have the right skills and experience to deliver a successful system that meets your site’s needs. HETAS (Heating Equipment Testing and Approval Scheme) is the only competent person scheme specialising in the installation of solid fuel and biomass appliances in the United Kingdom. They provide a range of accredited services from retail of appliances, install and servicing of existing equipment, chimney sweeping, biomass maintenance and appropriate training where applicable. For further information see the HETAS website:

HETAS Website

To find a registered installer in your area click here: Find an Installer

Key considerations:

  • Educate yourself: By reading independent resources, such as usewoodfuel and other key guidance. These tell you what questions to ask and help you assess the answers.
  • Select an consultant or specialist firm with a track record and references:

o Get multiple references from installations which are similar to what you are planning;

o Considering engaging an independent expert to help with procurement and final sign-off.

  • Use a performance specification to seek quotations (read more on this). This enables innovation to deliver cost effectiveness as there are many options;
  • Ensure that an experienced person will oversee your installation: Even experienced firms have resource constraints at times of high demand.

Finding an Installer

If you are planning a commercial installation (over 45kW) the following installer lists are available:

This list includes installers that are based in or are known to operate in Scotland. This list may not be complete and it is provided without any endorsement.

If you are an installer and you operate in Scotland please contact us so we can add you to this list.

  • Wood Heat Association installers list

The Wood Heat Association is the UK’s trade association for biomass heating. Contact them to identify suitably qualified personnel, some of whom can design and build biomass schemes in Scotland: Contact the Wood Heat Association