Business Strategy: Biomass Torrefaction and the Coming Surge in U.S. Biomass-Based Electricity Generation

Business Strategy: Biomass Torrefaction and the Coming Surge in U.S. Biomass-Based Electricity Generation published by IDC Energy Insights in December, 2009. This report consists of Pages: 18 and the price starts from US $ 4500.

Introduction

Abstract

This IDC Energy Insights report provides an overview of the market for biomass used as a fuel for electricity generation in the United States, with an emphasis on biomass torrefaction and its potential to spur market growth. This report provides a detailed technical description of biomass torrefaction, an emerging technology with the potential to significantly influence the economics of co-firing biomass with coal. Also briefly covered is biomass carbonization, a process related to torrefaction that may also play a role in the biomass fuel market. Additionally, this report examines the current status and total electricity generation potential of different types of biomass fuel including biomass waste, wood biomass and derived fuels, and herbaceous biomass. Finally, this report considers key challenges to the increased use of biomass as a fuel for electricity generation and provides guidance to utilities considering adding biomass to their renewable energy portfolio.

According to Jay Holman, IDC Energy Insights' research manager, "High fuel costs and a lack of technological innovation have limited the growth of biomass-based electricity generation in the United States to date. This may change in 2010, when torrefied biomass may well become available in commercial quantities for the first time."

Table of Contents

• Energy Insights Opinion
• In This Report
• Situation Overview
• Biomass Torrefaction
• Biomass Torrefaction Technical Description
• Key Factors to Consider Regarding Torrefied Biomass
• Biomass Carbonization
• Biomass Torrefaction and Carbonization Vendors
• Other Factors Impacting the Growth of Biomass-Based Electricity Generation
• Biomass Waste Dominates Recent Growth in Biomass-Based Generation
• Woody Biomass to Dominate Future Growth
• Growth Drivers for Woody Biomass–Based Electricity Generation
• Obstacles to the Use of Biomass for Electricity Generation
• Future Outlook
• Essential Guidance
• Actions to Consider
• Learn More
• Related Research
• Synopsis
• Table: Sample of Leading Biomass Torrefaction and Carbonization Vendors
• Table: U.S. Potential Biomass-Generating Capacity by Type (MW)
• Figure: U.S. Biomass-Based Electricity Generation: Capacity Additions by Type, 2005–2009
• Figure: U.S. Biomass-Based Electricity Generation: Planned Capacity Additions by Project Stage, 2009–2014

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