Mount Stewart House, Isle of Bute

Background

Redmore Environmental was instructed to undertake a Dispersion Modelling Assessment in support of a biomass boiler installation on the Mount Stuart Estate, Bute. The development aimed to provide renewable heat for Mount Stuart House, a Victorian Gothic mansion on the Isle of Bute off the west coast of Scotland.The scheme included provision of two boilers in a small dedicated building to the south-west of the main house.

Bute Dispersion Modelling Assessment

Biomass boilers generate heat by burning renewable plant based material. This can result in atmospheric emissions which are similar to domestic wood burners. Redmore Environmental therefore undertook a detailed Dispersion Modelling Assessment in order to investigate concentrations of pollutants around the site. This included the production of a 3D computer model using ADMS-5 to investigate dispersion of releases from the boilers.

The model considered factors including local meteorology, terrain heights, building geometries and operational schedules.These were entered to represent likely conditions with the development in place. The model was then ran and the outputs compared with the air quality standards.

Outcome

Analysis of the assessment results revealed that concentrations were below the relevant legal limits for all pollutants at all sensitive receptors. Impacts were also classified as not significant. This was despite a worst-case estimation that emissions from the boilers would be at maximum, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, which is unlikely to be the case.

The report produced was used in support of the planning application for the development. Additionally, it allowed the developers the reassurance needed that the proposed design and engine size would not be a detriment to air quality at this idyllic rural location.

If you are considering using biomass boilers as a source of renewable energy, please get in touch today to discuss potential air quality assessment or dispersion modelling assessment requirements.