This paper presents the development stages of a micro-scale system for electricity generation from biomass with 500 W of power. The proposed system is based on an open steam power cycle, whose conception was aimed at seeking solutions to meet the needs for energy supply in isolated communities in the Amazon region. In addition the great biomass potential in the region is an opportunity for the application of biomass energy to increase the economic activity and develop new technologies. The tests performed demonstrate that the steam turbine is the critical component to the commercial-scale feasibility of the presented technology, particularly when it's proposed manufacturing of the system by small regional industries. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.