Derived from the biological processes of life, biomass encompasses both plant and animal matter. Historically, humans have utilized biomass for energy, such as burning wood. In modern times, its role in global energy supply has expanded, with sources like corn being used to produce alcohol for various applications, including electricity generation. According to the International Energy Association, bioenergy is a leading renewable energy source, contributing to over 6% of the global energy supply, and its significance is expected to grow.
How is energy obtained from biomass?
Biopower technologies harness renewable biomass fuels to generate heat and electricity, mirroring processes used with fossil fuels. As outlined in Biopower Basics by the Federal Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, the primary methods to release energy from biomass for biopower include:
- Direct Combustion: Biomass undergoes combustion in a boiler to produce high-pressure steam. This steam activates a series of turbine blades, causing rotation.
Active Energy Group plc (LON:AEG) is a biomass based renewable energy business focussed on using its proprietary technology to transform low-cost or waste biomass material into renewable biomass fuels, thus creating next generation biomass products. AEG’S CoalSwitch® is a second generation biomass fuel that has been tested, and proven, to replace the traditional coal fired-power industry and existing renewable biomass industry without requiring plant modification.
