Report: The role of bioenergy in European cities

The Role of Bioenergy in European cities

(a World Bioenergy Association report) 

In the battle against climate change, cities can play a decisive role. Without a targeted policy for cities to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, climate mitigation policies cannot be successful.  

This study explains the contributions bioenergy can offer to reduce the use of fossil fuels in cities.  Bioenergy is a proven option to replace fossil fuels in the heat supply and partly in the transport sector and generation of electricity. Seven European cities are mentioned in this study that demonstrate how bioenergy is integrated into the urban energy system.

The supply of biomass in Europe is increasing. The forest area and the wood stock in forests are growing, the use and production of pellets and chipped forest biomass is increasing whereas the production of fossil fuels: gas, coal and oil is dwindling.

The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, energy security and development of new jobs in Europe are key arguments in favour of bioenergy. Therefore, it is clear that bioenergy has the potential to become a pillar in the future energy portfolio of cities.