What is Biomass Energy?

Biomass energy is created by harvesting organic matter, such as wood or special 'energy crops', and converting it into heat, electricity or transport fuel. The conversion processes used include combustion, anaerobic digestion and fermentation. Trees and plants absorb carbon dioxide as they grow. So when energy is generated from biomass there is no net addition of carbon dioxide so long as the biomass is regrown.

The extensive and mature forests in many parts of the Highlands and Islands offers a significant opportunity to maximise the potential of biomass energy - an alternative energy technology widely used elsewhere in Europe, particularly Scandinavia. As a carbon neutral process, biomass energy generation will play an important role in reducing climate-changing greenhouse gases in the UK. As well as using wood, biomass energy can also be created using other types of fuel, including grasses, willow, seed crops, and even by-products from industries such as food and drink and agriculture.

Among the many developments demonstrating the advantages of biomass energy has been the Averon Leisure Centre in Alness. Their woodfuel heating system is making significant savings on heating costs – and reducing the building’s carbon dioxide emissions. The wood fuel is supplied from the local wood recycling centre, which results in an additional environmental saving and local benefits.

A number of projects using biomass energy are operational or under development across the Highlands and Islands. These include local housing association developments and many community facilities. Projects such as these are supported by the Highlands and Islands Community Energy Company and the Highland Woodfuel Programme which, using support from HIE and Europe, supports development of clusters of projects across the Highlands and Islands.

For further information on biomass visit our Key Links panel.

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