A manufacturing company, which uses obsolete processes
and technologies, due to the economic crisis, is evaluating
a possible conversion to the energy sector. The paper presents
a careful analysis of local resources in the mountain area
of Carnia (Italy), identifying the available wood biomass,
using Geographic Information System (GIS) instruments.
The biomass can be exploited in energy generation plants
and represents, a good option with a high margin of profit
and takes advantage of the district heating technology.
The technical feasibility also used numeric regional
cartography to assess the energy needs, while the economic
feasibility is highly influenced by local regulations on public
incentives, established to reach the environmental goals
set by the international treaties. On the other hand, the
environmental sustainability of these plants is often positive,
even if related to the local context. The consequent reduction
of CO2 emissions is relevant, as long as the location of the
boiler room is correctly identified in order to optimize the
supply chain from the forests to the plant.
