2% of global electricity is generated from Biofuels

Biofuels are a type of renewable energy derived from organic materials, known as biomass, such as plant and animal waste. These biological materials are processed into fuels like ethanol, biodiesel, and biogas, which are then used to produce energy. Biofuels are considered a low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels, as they can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by replacing or supplementing traditional carbon-intensive energy sources. Although the term "biofuels" covers various types of fuel, the general principle involves converting natural biomass into usable energy, contributing to a diverse energy mix that includes solar, wind, and nuclear.

To generate electricity using biofuels, the biomass is first converted into a liquid or gaseous state suitable for combustion. In the case of solid biomass, it can be burned directly for heat, which is then used to produce steam. This steam drives turbines connected to generators, producing electricity. For liquid and gaseous biofuels like ethanol, biodiesel, or biogas, these fuels are combusted in a similar manner as traditional fossil fuels, also producing steam to run turbines. The carbon emissions from these processes are offset to some extent by the carbon dioxide absorbed by the plants during their growth cycle, although biofuels generally have a higher carbon intensity compared to other low-carbon energy sources like solar, wind, and nuclear.

Biofuels hold an advantageous position in the global energy landscape by contributing close to 2.3% of all electricity consumed worldwide. This presence underscores the versatility and utility of biofuels as part of a broader low-carbon energy strategy. Countries like Denmark, Martinique, Finland, Maine, and Vermont rely significantly on biofuels for electricity, illustrating biofuels' role in localized clean energy solutions. For instance, Denmark generates 15% of its electricity from biofuels, while in Martinique, this figure rises to 17%, demonstrating how biofuels complement other low-carbon technologies.

One of the most significant advantages of biofuels is their relatively low carbon intensity of 230 gCO2eq/kWh when compared to fossil fuels like coal and oil, which have carbon intensities of 820 and 650 gCO2eq/kWh respectively. Moreover, when combined with the outstanding achievements of wind, solar, and nuclear energy – each with far lower carbon intensities of 11, 45, and 12 gCO2eq/kWh respectively – biofuels help form a comprehensive strategy in the fight against climate change. By incorporating a diverse mix of low-carbon energy sources, we can reduce global reliance on fossil fuels, diminishing their harmful effects on the environment, such as air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Clean, sustainable electricity will be crucial in enabling future developments in electrification and fostering technology growth, like AI advancement.

Ultimately, the inclusion of biofuels alongside vital low-carbon technologies such as solar, nuclear, and wind contributes to a robust and sustainable energy future. Promoting the expansion of nuclear and solar energy, in particular, will be crucial in meeting the increasing global demand for clean electricity as societies strive to transition away from carbon-intensive energy sources. Driving the growth of these clean energy technologies ensures that we are well-equipped to address climate challenges and electrification needs now and in the future.