From Sawmilling to Sustainable Biomass Heating – Balcas Energy
Balcas began its journey to becoming a leading biomass wood pellets supplier in 1962. That year saw the opening of its very first sawmill. Over the years, we’ve grown to become one of the largest and most trusted timber producers across the UK and Ireland. Our success has always been rooted in deep respect for the natural resource we work with—timber. We are committed to using it responsibly and efficiently.
On the Wood Pellet Sustainability Trend
At Balcas, sustainability isn’t a trend. It’s a long-standing principle that has guided every stage of our growth. With an ever-increasing global demand for renewable energy and smarter resource use, we recognised the importance of extracting even more value from each tree we process. That’s where the journey to Balcas Energy began.
As part of our sawmilling operations, we generate a co-product—pure, untreated sawdust. Rather than letting this valuable by-product go to waste, we saw an opportunity. In 2004, our engineers began developing a process to convert sawdust into high-quality biomass fuel. By using the tree’s own natural resin as a binder, we created a clean, efficient, and renewable fuel source: wood pellets.
Certified Biomass Wood Pellets Supplier
These ENplus® A1-certified pellets quickly gained traction as a reliable, sustainable fuel for homes, schools, businesses, and public sector buildings. Today, these wood pellets represent over 50% of Balcas’ entire business, marking our evolution into a major player in the renewable energy sector.
Wood Pellets Supplier Expansion
In 2016, we expanded our reach by acquiring Forever Fuels, the UK’s largest wood pellet distribution company at the time. This strategic acquisition allowed us to strengthen our delivery network and provide more customers with reliable access to premium pellet fuel. In 2019, to reflect our growing focus on energy and the environment, we rebranded this part of the business as Balcas Energy.
Our wood pellets are not only made from 100% renewable wood, they’re also manufactured in a way that prioritises sustainability. Both our production facilities—located in Enniskillen, Northern Ireland, and Invergordon, Scotland—are powered by green energy. Thanks to our on-site Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plants, we are able to produce the heat and electricity needed to power our operations using the very materials we process. This makes our pellet production carbon-efficient and self-sufficient.
Wood Pellet Knowledge and Experience
Balcas Energy is proud to employ some of the most knowledgeable and experienced biomass professionals in the UK and Ireland. From production to customer support, we’re passionate about delivering high-quality, sustainable heating solutions to homes and businesses alike. Our team is committed to promoting a cleaner, greener future by helping our customers reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.
Today, Balcas Energy supplies thousands of customers across the UK and Ireland with locally-produced, low-carbon wood pellet fuel that supports both the environment and the economy. Our story continues to evolve, but our mission remains the same: to respect every tree, reduce waste, and lead the way in renewable heating.
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