What Is Green Coal? Questions a Fuel Buyer Should Ask

Ask the supplier to define the fuel

If a quotation describes a fuel as “green coal”, begin with a precise question: what feedstock and processing route does this offer represent? Ask whether the proposal concerns torrefied biomass, a waste-derived fuel or another product, and request the evidence for that description.

This article is a practical buyer-question guide. The checklist is our editorial recommendation, not a fuel standard, certification procedure or confirmation that a particular product is acceptable at a receiving plant.

Use published examples with their boundaries intact

IEA Bioenergy’s torrefaction case study compares a conventional wood-pellet route with a torrefied-pellet route that adds a biomass-roasting step. That is a defined wood-fuel example. IEA Bioenergy torrefaction case study.

NTPC’s announcement of 30 October 2024 describes an integrated agricultural-residue torrefaction and pelletisation demonstration. We cite it as another example of a specified feedstock and process, not as a Keystone project or an endorsement of a proposed fuel. NTPC demonstration announcement.

For a new proposal, request its own feedstock and test records. We recommend keeping biomass and mixed-waste proposals in separate comparison rows, with the actual composition and preparation route recorded wherever evidence is available. Ask for project-specific support for any claimed emissions, renewable-content or operating benefit.

A suggested buyer checklist

Check the heat-content convention

The EIA distinguishes gross and net heat content by the treatment of energy associated with vaporising water. ISO 18125 describes gross and net calorific value for solid biofuels. EIA glossary; ISO 18125 public summary.

In a comparison sheet, we recommend keeping the exact reported convention, unit, moisture basis and sample reference beside each value. Mark missing information for clarification. Ask the laboratory to confirm the applicable method for the specific fuel, especially where a proposal concerns a mixed-waste stream.

Prepare the next conversation

A useful starting pack can contain the supplier’s process description, available laboratory reports, proposed quantity and intended end use. Our recommendation is to give the receiving team that pack and request a list of unresolved technical and commercial questions. Keep any proposed trial plan or supply terms subject to the relevant team’s review.

Compare GCV, NCV and test basis  ·  Prepare an offtake discussion  ·  Explore Keystone Energy’s technology  ·  Discuss a project requirement