Grass Pellets

Grass pellets are the new wave. Are you on the bandwagon yet? Many scientists and researchers are discovering new ways to use grass as fuel. And why not? Were already using up our other resources in a timely manner. Here we will go over the different types of grass species being tested, along with what we’re doing here at home while other countries also try to figure out new ways to use grass as fuel. Grass pellets are catching on quickly to their cousin’s corn and wood pellets; it’s only a matter of time before the entire world refuses to be dependent on gas and oil.

Types of Grass Pellets

There are many different grass species growing all over the world. Tests are being done on three major species right now; switchgrass, reed canary grass and miscanthus. There are also several types of straw grass that is an option like wheat, but its still in the early stages of development. Regardless of the type of grass used, they all have a few things in common before, during and after the burning process. Unlike corn and wood pellets, grass pellets welcome moisture. During the burning stage, all of the grasses are said to give off the same amount of heat as corn and wood pellets. After the burning process, all the pellets are said to leave behind a considerable amount of thick ash that causes build-up. So there's good and bad with grass pellets.

Cost Effective

The best part about switching from corn or wood pellets to grass pellets is the cost. The drying process is non-existent when pelletizing grass. The sun does the job that only multi-million dollar facilities can do with corn and wood. There are also large amounts of land available right here on our home soil, which provides farmers with ample work hours and a high pay-off. Transportation for distributing becomes non existent too, since grass lands spread throughout the Midwestern states up to the northwestern states. This can cut down gasoline usage by major trucks that only do harm to our already “fragile” environment.

Overseas vs. Here at home

Grass pellets and their capabilities are nothing new to foreigners. Europe is experimenting with reed canary grass pellets by burning them in small scale boilers, while Canada (who is leading the way) has many research facilities set up on farms in rural locations that actually pellet various types of grass. The US is also experimenting with pelletizing grass with the intentions of being a heat source. The difference between us and other countries is this: The US has a considerable amount of unused land perfect for growing grass, pelletizing it and making it available for usage; only were not doing anything with this land yet. Many people are still skeptical about this bioenergy and there are still more questions than answers.