Analysing the potential of biomass
The EU's BIOCOGEN project concentrated on biomass-fuelled Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plants (also known as cogeneration plants) and the feasibility of their implementation in terms of output and costs. Analysing market needs and specific regional requirements made up a key element of the project. As a result, a report summarising the key aspects of the biomass cogeneration market analysis was put together. The starting point for a wider market review regarding the future of biomass-fuelled plants is the concern of the cogeneration industry as a whole and the energy sector in general. As it stands, biomass is not widely recognised as a viable option within the energy industry. It is anticipated, however, that its favourable environmental and energy efficiency profiles will be rewarded in due time. The report deals with a total of eighteen countries from across Europe and provides detailed overviews of biomass cogeneration in each region based on national and international data. These national characteristics are important as a first step towards an implementation of a strategic marketing plan throughout the EU. Overall, the report considers all the potential markets for biomass CHP including agro-industry, forestry and heating. As an overview, the report could prove an extremely useful tool in the near future as steps are taken towards a much wider information campaign.