CO2 mitigation or removal: The optimal uses of biomass in energy system decarbonization

Abstract

Summary: Owing to its versatility, biomass can be used for a range of CO2 mitigation and removal options. The recent adoption of end-of-century temperature targets at the global scale, along with mid-century economy-wide net zero emission targets in Europe, has boosted demand forecasts for this valuable resource. Given the limited nature of sustainable biomass supply, it is important to understand most efficient uses of biomass, both in terms of avoided CO2 emissions (i.e., substituted energy and economic services) and CO2 removal. Here, we quantify the mitigation and removal potential of key bio-based CO2 removal pathways for the transport, power, construction, and iron and steel sectors in Europe. By combining the carbon balance of these pathways with their economics, the optimal use of biomass in terms of CO2 avoidance and removal costs is quantified, and how these evolve with the decarbonization of the European energy system is discussed.

Keywords

• Energy resources
• Energy policy
• Energy sustainability
• Energy systems
• Energy flexibility