The group includes the Natural Resources Institute Finland (Luke), the University of Eastern Finland, Karelia University of Applied Sciences Ltd, and Business Joensuu Oy. The aim of the group is to diversely develop material competence based on biochar, identify new uses for torrefied biomass and biochar, as well as to accelerate product development in companies.

The group has made possible the construction of the new bioindustrial plant. Construction work on the bioindustrial plant is planned to begin in spring 2022 and it is located on the plot of the Savon Voima Oyj electric and thermal power station.  The plant uses forest industry and forestry side streams as raw material, mainly wood bark and first thinning cordon. There is a growing demand for torrefied biomass in the cement and steel industries, in addition, biochar is seen to have opportunities for soil improvement and water treatment.

The investment creates new jobs in the Joensuu region and provides excellent support for the city’s climate strategy and its goal of being carbon neutral by 2025.

The Taaleri project is an important opening for industrial activities in accordance with sustainable development and circular economy, in the Joensuu region, and it also increases the attractiveness of the Biotie business area, says Mayor Kari kajalainen.

More information can be found here.