Procurement guide · Revised 7 October 2026
Net and gross calorific value
GCV includes heat associated with condensing water vapour. NCV excludes that contribution. Do not compare a supplier’s GCV directly with another supplier’s NCV, or insert GCV into a calculator that asks for NCV.
Keep the moisture basis visible
As-received results describe fuel with its delivered moisture. Dry-basis results describe fuel excluding moisture. Ask the laboratory for the appropriate result; do not apply a second moisture deduction to an as-received NCV.
What to request
Request the sample date, batch reference, test method, result in MJ/kg and stated basis. A result without a traceable sample cannot establish the performance of the shipment being quoted.
Worked example
At an illustrative landed price of USD 150/t and an as-received NCV of 15 MJ/kg, fuel energy costs USD 10/GJ. At an assumed 80% useful-heat efficiency, the cost is USD 12.50/GJ. These are demonstration values, not a product specification.
These are purchasing considerations, not a WoodPelletCN batch specification or equipment approval. Discuss final requirements with your laboratory and equipment provider.
Further reference: ISO 17225-2: graded wood pellets · ISO 17225-6: graded non-woody pellets.