A high-tech boiler that turns waste wood into electricity and heat could be a cost-effective investment for Central Washington University, according to a study released last week.
It’s a concept that’s been under discussion for years, but until now, a design and cost analysis had not been done.
The results are very encouraging, said Jim Armstrong, CEO of the Kittitas Chamber of Commerce, which sponsored the research.
“The bottom line is usually these facilities just don’t pencil (out), but in this case, because CWU has the infrastructure to use the waste heat in the cold months to heat the campus, it works,” Armstrong said. “They wouldn’t have to buy natural gas, which saves money.”