Biomass for Energy in Europe

Abstract Recent studies show that between 5 and 10% of Europe's energy needs could be met by biomass fuels by the year 2000. Biomass resources could substitute for fossil fuels by providing heat, electricity and liquid fuels. Several countries could provide up to one half of their energy requirements from biomass if required. The national resources and biomass energy programmes of 15 European countries are described. The types of biomass resources, the major conversion technologies and factors which affect biomass projects are discussed.