Biomass

Globally, biomass is the dominant source of renewable energy. Biomass accounts for approximately 12% of the world’s energy consumption, which equals 80% of the annual global production of renewable energy.

CO2-neutral energy
Biomass is a CO2-neutral energy source. The amount of CO2 absorbed during photosynthesis, corresponds to the amount emitted when the biomass is subsequently converted into energy. Focusing on biomass as an energy source is logical as the level of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere is considered to be one of the major causes of global warming.

Putting biomass to good use
Biomass is plant matter such as trees, grasses, agricultural crops, manure or other types of organic materials and waste. Biomass can be used for:

• Fuel
• Power production
• An alternative to fossil fuels in manufacturing

Biomass such as straw, wood, and household waste has been used as fuel for many years. Combined with heat and power plants, the technologies for utilization have been developed continuously in order to secure a more sustainable energy sector in the future, focusing on reducing emissions of CO2 and reducing the dependency on fossil fuels.

Reducing Danish CO2 emissions
Biomass has become an increasingly important energy source in Denmark over the last 25 years. The consumption of biomass for energy production in Denmark more than quadrupled between 1980 and 2009. Biomass has thus made a significant contribution to the reduction of Danish CO2 emissions. This is because of the use of well-developed technologies for biomass production, handling, and exploitation.

Danish bio-energy technologies are mostly developed jointly by Danish industry, R&D institutions, and public authorities at municipal and national levels. This model has proven valuable in producing reliable and thus competitive technologies.