Diamante Energia successfully completes the first industrial test blending coconut shell biochar with coal in a thermal power plant.
The energy transition in Brazil gains innovative momentum with an initiative by Diamante Energia. The company conducted a pioneering industrial-scale test using a hybrid fuel that combines coal with biochar derived from coconut shells.
The trial took place at the generating unit of the Pecém power plant, marking the shift from laboratory studies to operational reality. This technological advancement seeks more sustainable ways to operate in the clean energy and thermal power sectors.
Innovation with regional biomass
The project stems from a partnership established in 2024 with the Universidade Estadual do Ceará (UECE). The initiative falls under the umbrella of the Research, Development, and Innovation Program regulated by Aneel, focusing on the technical feasibility of partially replacing fossil fuels.
The northeastern state stands out for its high coconut production, generating a significant volume of agro-industrial waste. Using shells that would normally be discarded addresses an environmental liability while creating a value chain for energy sustainability.
Boiler test results
During operation in the 360 MW boiler, the tested blend contained 1% biomass by mass, totaling approximately 1.5 metric tons of biochar mixed with 148.5 metric tons of coal.
The transition from the laboratory to the industrial environment is a decisive milestone for measuring safety, reliability, and the actual behavior of the new input in electricity generation.
Next steps for the technology
Data collected during combustion is already undergoing rigorous analysis by experts. The goal is to verify combustion stability, performance in pulverizing mills, and direct impacts on atmospheric emissions.
With this information, Diamante Energia and its academic partners will be able to refine the process and plan the next round of tests. The initiative reinforces the power sector’s commitment to reducing environmental impacts and driving technological innovation.