The Impacts of the Energy Potential of Forest Biomass on the Local Market: An Example of South-Eastern Poland

Abstract

Forest biomass is and will remain a primary source of renewable energy in many EU countries in the coming years. The aim of this study was to determine the energy potential of forest biomass on a regional scale with regard to the needs of its inhabitants in terms of electricity and heat consumption. The study was carried out in south-eastern Poland. Energy potential was calculated based on the determined wood mass and calorific value of wood. The current level of forest biomass acquisition satisfies 4.2% of the needs of the local market in terms of electricity and heat consumption. Taking into account high forest cover of the region (40%), the 60% annual increment of total harvesting, and obtaining biomass at the level of 30% of the total harvesting, waste wood from the forest can meet 58.1% of the needs of the local market in terms of electricity consumption and 14.4% of the need for thermal energy consumption. There is a certain niche in the fuel wood market that is currently unused, presenting the opportunity to develop this sector and generate additional jobs in local markets. However, the increase in obtained forest biomass must be in accordance with the principles of sustainable development.

The Economic Effects of New Patterns of Energy Efficiency and Heat Sources in Rural Single-Family Houses in Poland

“…They have often emphasized the importance of development of renewable energy production in rural areas based on local sources. Thus the role of biomass in both the context of sustainable development, achieving energy security (including greater self-sufficiency) and providing an alternative source of income for rural communities has been highlighted [10,[13][14][15]. Problem of technologically obsolete heat sources used by Polish rural households has been analysed from the different perspectives.…”