Lorenzo Baronti 
Masters in Circular Economy - Università degli Studi della Tuscia
When talking about biomass energy, there’s still a huge lack of knowledge on the topic.
Wind and solar energy supplies are nowadays overloaded with information, articles and news, but that’s because those are the most easy-to-see. However, there are even more methods to generate renewable energy systems with sustainable business models, that’s the topic we are going to explore today.
At Alkebulan Greens Energy we care particularly about biomass energy, since our business model is entirely based on the production of sustainable briquettes, for sure we plan to include other renewable energy supplies like solar among our infrastructures, but biomass energy is the one which has the most relevant role since it has the capacity to link local business better than any other energy source. That’s why it has been considered one of the most important investment opportunities.
What is biomass?
Biomass by definition is the “material of biological origin in non-fossil form” and includes residues of agricultural and forestry origin, food or breeding waste. Even urban waste is a biomass generator, as it usually occupies the 40% of the total waste in cities.
Organic waste is reusable as an energy source, to be included into existing processes or simply to create new ones. For example, we can refer to the possibility of generating bioethanol, a product that can be created from the fermentation of corn or from biomass in general, and which can be used as fuel or as a raw material for petrol additives, it can be added to petrol for a percentage that can reach about the 20% without modifying the engine in any way.
The advantages of biomass energy
As mentioned before, biomass is a renewable energy source which is derived from organic matter such as wood, crop residues, animal waste, and municipal solid waste. This source is considered to be a promising alternative to fossil fuels because it is abundant, widely distributed, and can be replenished quickly. Here are some of the advantages of biomass energy:
- Renewable. Biomass is a renewable energy source because it can be replaced quickly. Trees and crops can be replanted, and waste products can be continuously produced. This makes biomass energy a sustainable source of energy that can be used for many years to come.
- Reduced dependence on fossil fuels. Biomass energy reduces dependence on fossil fuels such as oil, coal, and natural gas. Fossil fuels are finite resources and their reserves are depleting quickly. By using biomass energy, we can reduce our reliance on these non-renewable resources and move towards a more sustainable energy future.
- Carbon neutral. The use of biomass energy is considered to be carbon neutral because the carbon released during combustion is offset by the carbon absorbed by plants during photosynthesis. This means that the net carbon emissions are zero, making biomass energy the most environmentally friendly alternative to fossil fuels.
- Low-cost. Biomass energy is generally less expensive than fossil fuels. The cost of biomass can vary depending on the type of biomass and the location, but in from a general point of view it is more affordable than fossil fuels. This makes biomass energy an attractive option for developing countries or regions where access to affordable energy is limited.
- Job creation. The use of biomass energy can create jobs in rural areas. Biomass is often produced and harvested in rural areas, and the use of biomass energy can create jobs in agriculture, forestry, and manufacturing. This can help to stimulate local economies and reduce unemployment.
- Waste reduction. The use of biomass energy can help to reduce waste. Many types of biomass, such as agricultural residues, forestry waste, and municipal solid waste, are often disposed of in landfills. By using these materials for energy production, we can reduce the amount of waste that goes to landfills and mitigate the environmental impact of waste disposal.
- Energy security. The use of biomass energy can improve energy security. Biomass is widely distributed and can be produced locally, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. This can help to stabilize energy prices and reduce vulnerability to energy price shocks.
- Versatile. Biomass energy can be used in a variety of applications. It can be used to generate electricity, heat buildings, power vehicles, and even produce chemicals and materials. This versatility makes biomass energy a flexible and adaptable energy source that can meet a variety of energy needs.
- Reduced air pollution. The use of biomass energy can help to reduce air pollution. Fossil fuels, particularly coal, emit pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter. Biomass combustion emits fewer pollutants than fossil fuels, reducing the environmental impact of energy production.
- Diversification of energy mix. The use of biomass energy can help to diversify the energy mix. By using a variety of energy sources, we can reduce the risks associated with dependence on a single energy source. Biomass energy can be used in combination with other renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power to create a more sustainable energy mix.
Aren’t these examples enough to proof all the advantages and benefits of biomass energy?
Well, even National Geographic talks about that.
Biomass energy has several advantages over fossil fuels. It is a renewable, carbon-neutral, low-cost, and versatile energy source that can help to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, create jobs, reduce waste, improve energy security, reduce air pollution, and diversify the energy mix. These benefits make biomass energy an attractive option for sustainable energy production, attracting more and more investors.