New wood chips type for residential use: a pellet substitute for the European market

ABSTRACT The European energy market in rural areas has been characterized by steady growth in wood pellet consumption; recent supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions have exposed market vulnerabilities. This study investigates new biofuel, mini wood chips (MWC) and calibrated mini wood chips (CMWC), as substitutes for imported pellets in residential heating in Europe. Tests were conducted on a conventional pellet stove adapted to use the new biofuels. Although MWC faced operational issues due to oversized chips that obstructed the auger, CMWC exhibited reliable performance during extended trials. A statistical evaluation was performed using two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and compromise programming to assess a setup with respect to key parameters such as the efficiency; global power output; flue gas temperature; and carbon monoxide, particulate matter, and oxygen emissions. The analysis revealed that optimizing stove settings is essential to ensure functionality, maximize power, and minimize emissions when using CMWC. These findings suggest that CMWC is an alternative to conventional wood pellets, reducing import, enhancing supply chains, and fostering local economic and environmental benefits. Overall, the integration of CMWC emerges as both a viable technological pathway for household heating and a strategic contribution to energy policy, reinforcing the goals of ecological transition and sustainable territorial development.