Combining electrification and biofuel for an effective transition

In order to meet the climate goals, an array of fossil fuel products need to be phased out and replaced with renewable ones. But since the availability of these is limited, it is important to use the resources as intelligently as possible. One way is to use processes where electrification and bioenergy work together.

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We need to conserve the renewable carbon that exists

Long-term and resource-efficient solutions necessary

At present, most biofuels are made from crops such as wheat, maize and rapeseed, as well as from residues from animal slaughter. But significantly more biofuels could be produced from underutilised residues from forestry, such as branches, treetops, bark, and sawdust, and residues from pulp mills. 

– “Since there is no immediate resource shortage and the raw material is not very expensive, it can be cheaper in the short term to burn some for energy in the processes,” says Furusjö. “And since it’s biogenic carbon dioxide, its emissions come at no cost. So, it’s important that we raise the issue and ensure that we get more long-term sustainable solutions with higher resource efficiency. This applies to both existing forestry industries and new emerging biorefineries.”

RISE is involved in several projects in the field, relating to technology development as well as system studies. Several projects are looking at how the forestry residue lignin can be used more efficiently than today. Other projects are focusing on what are known as bio-electro-fuels, along with other ways to increase resource efficiency in biorefineries.

– “We also help individual companies to examine their processes. We encourage organisations to start thinking in the long term right now and to develop processes that make efficient use of the valuable biomass we have,” concludes Erik Furusjö.

Johan M Ahlström

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+46 10 228 45 35 Read more about Johan M

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