Revisiting the carbon emissions discrepancy in biomass: Could the EU adopt a more evidence-based strategy?
The European Union (EU) is embarking on a significant transition in its energy sector, with a growing emphasis on biomass as a renewable energy source. A proposed wave of EU coal-to-biomass projects could see biomass consumption increase by some 15 GW or more, marking a substantial shift in the continent's energy landscape. This shift is particularly evident in Germany, where plans are in place to allow some combined heat and power (CHP) plants to receive subsidies to convert to biomass.
However, the increased use of biomass raises concerns about its environmental impact. Power stations that burn wood and other plant-based products can emit more carbon dioxide and up to 20% more nitrogen-dioxide than existing coal-fired power stations.
In an effort to address these concerns, new rules set to come into effect in 2021 aim to minimize the use of whole trees for energy production in the EU. The European Commission is also pushing for a 'transformative approach' in a sweeping review of biomass policies by the end of 2020, focusing specifically on 'the use of forest biomass for energy production.'
Despite these concerns, biomass plays a crucial role in the EU's renewable energy sector. It currently far outweighs solar and wind power combined, accounting for almost 60% of the EU's renewable energy. This is largely due to the EU's success in replacing around half of its coal plant capacity with fossil gas, with many EU countries claiming they will be unable to achieve their 2020 renewable energy targets without converting more coal-fired power plants to biomass.
The Netherlands and the United Kingdom are leading this transition. The Dutch government is awarding over €11.4 bn in subsidies to build new biomass plants and help existing coal plants convert. The UK, on the other hand, has most strongly committed to using biomass in power plants to meet its 2020 renewable energy targets, with major companies like the Drax Group converting coal units to wood fuel and government policies classifying biomass as a carbon-neutral source within the EU framework.
However, the increased demand for biomass could lead to significant increases in wood pellet consumption. Biomass burnt in current and former coal power plants could triple versus current levels, requiring an estimated 36 million tonnes of wood pellets. This could potentially put pressure on forests and contribute to deforestation.
The Commission's recent suggestions hint at a possible shift in its view of biomass, with perhaps no longer viewing all biomass as inherently carbon neutral. As the EU continues to navigate this transition, it will be crucial to strike a balance between meeting renewable energy targets and minimizing environmental impact.
