Bio-fuels

When man discovered fire, the utilisation of biomass began

It was only about 250 years ago that coal began to replace biomass in the industrialised countries. In many countries, biomass has always been the predominant source of energy. Some industries such as sugar refineries have never abandoned biomass as a source of energy. The use of biomass has been increasing strongly in recent years.

Resources

Solid biomass fuels are available from a large number of different sources.

Depending on local conditions, biomass resources are available in most of the world. Solid bio-masses come mainly from the following sources:

Peat moors, energy crops, forest residue, food production residue, paper and sawmill residue, animal farm litter, recycled material, etc.

Why use biomass?

• Biomass is an environmental friendly fuel
• Subsidy schemes are available
• Disposal of a waste product

In many countries, initiatives for reducing greenhouse gases have lead to energy policies that include tax reductions and/or subsidies which encourage and support the use of biomass.