Biomass remains largest contributor to renewable energy in Europe

In a study for the European Commission, Guidehouse analyzed the bioenergy market in Europe, identifying the main types of biomass used for the production of renewable heat, electricity and transport fuels. The Guidehouse bioenergy experts analyzed nature and origin, consumption and production, and the markets for biofuels, biogas and solid bioenergy carriers. The team also investigated the main sustainability impacts related to the biofuels consumed in Europe, such as land use involved in the initial production, overall greenhouse gas emission savings, and local environmental impacts.

The study shows that biomass still is the largest renewable energy source applied in Europe. The largest share of bioenergy is made up of solid biomass used for renewable heat and electricity production. Liquid biofuels strongly contribute to renewable energy in transport, and this mainly concerns biodiesel. Most of the biomass used for renewable energy comes from crops and forest residues in Europe. A smaller share of (feedstock for) liquid biofuels and pellets was imported from outside Europe.

The report enables the Commission to fulfill its obligation to report on the progress in renewable energy and on the sustainability of biofuels consumed in the EU. The findings will also inform the Commission’s Fourth Report on the State of the Energy Union.

Download the report at the website of the European Commission.