Biomass-energy overview in the context of Brazilian biomass-power demonstration

Abstract Biomass contributes around 10–14% to global primary-energy input, but it is an inefficiently utilised resource, often exploited unsustainably. Close to source, the cost of useful energy in the form of lignocellulose is often competitive with fossil fuels. Wider commercial exploitation on a sustainable basis awaits the development of modern technology to enable biomass to compete with conventional energy carriers. This paper argues that electricity is the most logical initial target market for biomass energy and that emerging technologies offer good prospects for high-efficiency power plants with moderate investment costs. Successful development of such technology could make available substantial quantities of biomass power at a cost comparable with that of some fossil-based options and make a useful contribution to reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The Global Environment Facility of the World Bank is funding a commercial demonstration of a Biomass Integrated Gasification-Gas Turbine power plant in Brazil. Funding has being allocated in two tranches: a two-year development grant of US$ 7.7 million followed by an implementation grant of US$ 23 million. The organisation of the development phase is reviewed in this paper.