Title:
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Economics of power generation from imported biomass
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Author(s):
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Published by:
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Publication date:
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ECN
Policy Studies
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1998
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ECN report number:
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Document type:
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ECN-C--98-013
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ECN publication
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Number of pages:
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Full text:
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49
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Download PDF
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Abstract:
Attention is paid to the economics of import of biomass to theNetherlands, and subsequent utilisation for power generation, as a means to
reduce dependence on (imported) fossil fuels and to reduce CO2 emission.
Import of wood to the extent of 40 PJ or more from Baltic and South American
states seems to be readily achievable. Import of biomass has various
advantages, not only for the European Union (reduced CO2 emissions) but also
for the countries of origin (employment creation). However, possible
disadvantages or risks should be taken into account. With that in mind,
import of biomass from Baltic states seems very interesting, although it
should be noted that in some of those countries the alternative of
fuel-switching to biomass seems to be more cost-effective than import of
biomass from those countries. Given the expected increase in inland biomass
consumption in the Baltic countries and the potential substantial future
demand for biomass in other Western European countries it is expected that
the biomass supply from Baltic countries will not be sufficient to fulfill
the demand. An early focus on import from other countries seems advisable.
Several power generation options are available with short to medium term
potential and long term potential. The margin between costs of
biomass-fuelled power and of coal fired power will be smaller, due to
substantial improvements in power generating efficiency and reductions of
investment costs of options for power generation from biomass, notably
Biomass Gasification Combined Cycle. 18 refs.
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