A door manufacturing firm in County Tyrone is set to transform its production waste into a sustainable energy source, marking a significant step towards green technology in the region. O&S Doors plans to convert wood dust generated during its manufacturing processes into electricity, a move that not only promises to power parts of the factory but also aims to reduce environmental impact.
Innovative Renewable Energy Strategy
Located near Benburb, O&S Doors is embarking on a multimillion-pound investment to install a biomass-fuelled combined heat and power (CHP) system. This innovative approach is touted as the first of its kind in Ireland, and the company is optimistic about the potential benefits. Currently, the wood dust produced during the creation of kitchen doors is either shipped to England for use as animal bedding or discarded in landfills.
Dermot O’Brien, a representative from O&S Doors, highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainability. “This technology has been in development for about eight years, and we anticipate generating our own electricity by early 2027,” he stated. “Electricity comprises our largest annual expense, so converting a by-product into energy will significantly impact our operations.”
Harnessing Wood Dust for Cleaner Energy
The CHP system will utilise medium-density fibreboard (MDF) dust, a by-product of the wood processing activities at O&S Doors. The new facility aims to produce approximately 6.3 million units of energy annually, which will cater to both heating and manufacturing needs within the factory. By incinerating over 10,000 tonnes of MDF dust each year, the company expects to generate 1 megawatt of electricity and reduce carbon emissions by 1,500 tonnes annually.
This ambitious project is part of the Shared Island Sustainability Capital Grant scheme, launched by the Irish government, which has earmarked €20 million (£17 million) for initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to sustainable industrial practices. O&S Doors successfully secured a £2.4 million grant to support their £9 million investment in this renewable energy project.
Support from Local Leaders
First Minister Michelle O’Neill recently toured the factory to learn more about O&S Doors’ groundbreaking investment. She expressed her enthusiasm for the project, stating, “This is a fabulous success story that highlights local innovation. The technology being implemented here is transformative and sets a precedent for future developments in the industry.”
Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald echoed these sentiments, praising the firm as “ambitious and innovative.” She underscored the project’s potential to enhance economic collaboration across the island and its benefits for the local workforce.
Job Security Amidst Local Challenges
While O&S Doors is making strides in sustainability, the region is grappling with job uncertainty, particularly following news of potential closures at other facilities, such as Linden Foods in Dungannon, where over 300 jobs may be at risk. Addressing concerns about job security, Archibald assured that the government would provide ongoing support to affected workers.
When asked if the renewable energy initiative could lead to further job creation, O’Brien noted that the company already employs around 400 people in the area. He expressed optimism that as the business expands, there may be opportunities for new hires. “We have a loyal workforce, and if growth in our sustainability efforts allows us to take on more staff, we will be eager to do so,” he said.
Why it Matters
The initiative by O&S Doors not only exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to manufacturing but also underscores the importance of integrating sustainable practices within local industries. By converting waste into energy, the company is setting a significant precedent for environmental responsibility in manufacturing, showcasing how businesses can innovate to meet both economic and ecological goals. As the region faces challenges with job security, the hope is that such investments will foster resilience and growth within the local economy while contributing to a greener future.
