New Biomass Fuel Storage Facility Established at the Tonegawa Division
EnvironmentJuly 1, 2025
A new storage facility for waste fuel used in the biomass boiler has been constructed at the Tonegawa Division. Since paperboard mills require a large amount of energy to produce containerboard from recovered paper, both the Tonegawa Division and the Yashio Mill operate biomass boilers for power generation. Stable procurement of fuel is essential for the operation of biomass boilers. However, since waste wood fuel is a by-product of demolition work, it is difficult to source consistently. Supply can also be disrupted during maintenance shutdowns and other operational pauses. To address these issues, the new facility provides a storage space equivalent to approximately 1.3 Tokyo Domes, enabling stable procurement and use of stored waste fuel to manage fluctuations in supply. The facility also places strong emphasis on safety. Since waste fuel poses a risk of spontaneous ignition during storage, AI cameras are used to monitor unauthorized access, while thermal cameras continuously track stored fuel temperature. In addition, fire extinguishers and water hoses have been installed as part of comprehensive fire prevention measures. These initiatives have strengthened trust with fuel suppliers, thereby reinforcing the foundation for manufacturing powered by renewable energy.
The new storage facility holds RPF (Refuse Paper and Plastic Fuel made from non-recyclable recovered paper and waste plastic) and wood chips (derived from construction waste wood).
Rengo is working toward its target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 46% compared to FY3/2014 levels by FY3/2031. At the Tonegawa Division, part of the biomass boiler fuel has already been converted to renewable energy. The Yashio Mill plans to start operating its second biomass boiler in 2027, and utilization of the newly established fuel storage facility at the Tonegawa Division is also under consideration.