Bioenergy
Bioenergy is a common term meaning energy related to the exploitation of biomass. Biomass exists in many different forms with different qualities. The common feature of each form is that they their energy content is derived from photosynthesis, which uses the energy of sunlight to release electrons from water molecules. The high-energy free electrons are used in the cell’s metabolism to build up organic molecules in the plant by binding carbon from the air.
Resource basis
Plant and algae production of biomass is dependent on temperature and access to growth factors such as incoming radiation, nutrient salts and water.
Areas of application, value chains, technologies and market
The most common application area for bioenergy is heating. The heat production can be carried out in a local heating plant for supply of a single building, or a group of buildings in a neighbourhood. In densely populated areas with apartment buildings and industrial areas, it can be profitable to establish a district heat network that distributes heat over a larger area, possibly from several heating plants. The heat demand, i.e. annual need for energy and power, determines the appropriate type of fuel and combustion technology.
Environmental impact
An important advantage with bioenergy is that its use is neutral with regard to greenhouse gases. The carbon dioxide that is created through combustion has been previously taken up by the plant, and therefore does not represent a net emission as long as the standing biomass stock is not exhausted. However, a complicating factor is the effect on carbon that is bound in the ground below the plant. There is a need for much research on this subject before we have a complete understanding of processes and system effects.
Products and services in the value chain/technology gaps
The most important products in the diverse value chains are described in connection with the different areas of application. The main areas are equipment for fuel management, combustion and flue gas treatment. An increased demand for knowledge about design of bioenergy plants, environmental assessments and operation of district heat plants can also be expected in the future.
References
References to the information about bioenergy.