NaN% of global electricity is generated from Biofuels

Biofuels are a form of energy derived from organic materials, such as plant and animal matter. This bioenergy can be processed into various forms, including liquid fuels like ethanol and biodiesel, and solid forms like wood pellets and agricultural waste. As these organic materials are replenished relatively quickly compared to fossil fuels, biofuels are considered a renewable energy source. They play a significant role in reducing dependence on finite fossil fuels and contribute to the diversification of the energy mix.

To generate electricity from biofuels, the organic materials are first converted into usable fuel forms. This can be done through various methods such as fermentation, gasification, and direct combustion. Power plants burn these biofuels to heat water, creating steam that drives turbines connected to generators. The process is somewhat similar to how coal-fired power stations operate but with materials that are more sustainable and have a lower carbon footprint.

One of the main advantages of biofuels is their relatively low carbon intensity. While coal emits approximately 820 gCO2eq/kWh and natural gas emits around 490 gCO2eq/kWh, biofuels emit about 230 gCO2eq/kWh. This is considerably lower than traditional fossil fuels, though not as low as some other clean energy technologies like wind (11 gCO2eq/kWh), nuclear (12 gCO2eq/kWh), or solar (45 gCO2eq/kWh). The adoption of low-carbon technologies is crucial in the global effort to mitigate climate change and reduce air pollution.

Biofuels currently generate NaN% of the world's electricity, contributing to a more diversified and sustainable energy portfolio. In certain countries, biofuels make a significant contribution to the electricity mix. For instance, in Uruguay, biofuels generate 22% of the electricity, while in Denmark, the share stands at 19%. Estonia and Finland also have notable contributions, with biofuels generating 14% of their electricity. In Sweden, the share is 7%. These figures highlight how various countries leverage biofuels alongside other low-carbon technologies to meet their energy needs sustainably.

In the broader context, the combination of biofuels with other low-carbon energy sources like wind, nuclear, and solar can create a more resilient and cleaner electricity grid. Wind power, with its carbon intensity of just 11 gCO2eq/kWh, and nuclear power, emitting only 12 gCO2eq/kWh, are particularly important in achieving deep decarbonization of the electricity sector. Solar energy, with a carbon intensity of 45 gCO2eq/kWh, also plays a critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and providing clean electricity. Together, these technologies help minimize reliance on high-emission fossil fuels, thereby combating climate change and improving air quality across the globe.