Citation

Benemann, J. R., Biomass energy economics. The Energy Journal 1: 107-131, 1980.

Abstract

Some conclusions from the above presentation can be drawn:

1. The current economics of biomass fuels in the United States would allow by 1985 a doubling (from about 1 to 2 quads) of biofuel usage in the Forest products industry, and a significant increase in biofuel usage in other sectors (household, commercial, agricultural, municipal, and industrial), for a total biomass fuel usage of about 3 quads. Government regulatory and tax incentives will be required.

2. By the year 2000, the price of imported oil the constraints on coal and nuclear energy will make a large fraction of forest and agricultural residues economically attractive, doubling again the biofuel usage. Combination of forest residues will be the major biofuel route; however, a diversity of other biomass sources and conversation processes will find market niches. A rigorous government program of RD&D and commercialization will be required.

3. In the longer term, many possibilities are open which could significantly increase biomass fuel resources in the United States. These should be developed in an evolutionary fashion rather than by attempting great leaps forward, as is being tried with the ocean farm project. A major basic and applied research program must be instituted at present to guarantee that these possibilities will be developed in time.

4. Biofuels are inherently a local, small-scale energy resource. Although large-scale energy farms will be possible in some regions of the United States and other countries, the greatest potential of this energy source is in making agricultural/forestry fossil fuel independent in industrialized countries and more rewarding in developing countries.

5. Biofuels can provide all of the energy presently used, or likely to be required, in many tropical countries. In many countries, biofuels can complement other renewable energy sources.

(Benemann, April 1978). Only in a few highly industrialized countries will impacts be relatively minor.

Country, State, District, etc.

United States

Language

English

Material

general

Use category

energy production