2% of global electricity is generated from Biofuels

Biofuels are a source of energy derived from organic material like plant and animal matter. This form of energy comes from the conversion of biomass into fuel that can be burned for heat or transformed into liquid fuels like biodiesel or ethanol, which can then be used for electricity generation, transportation, and even heating. It plays a crucial role in the transition towards greener energy systems because it can be a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, albeit with some variability in its carbon footprint. Biofuels are often considered low-carbon due to their potential to reduce the carbon emissions that occur with traditional fossil fuels like coal and oil.

Biofuels generate electricity through various processes, primarily involving the combustion of solid, liquid, or gaseous biomaterials. In power plants, this biomass is burned to produce steam, which drives a turbine connected to a generator, thus producing electricity. Alternatively, liquid biofuels can be used in modified engines of combined heat and power systems to generate electricity more directly. The technology can also incorporate the use of anaerobic digesters that produce biogas — a mixture of methane and carbon dioxide — which can be utilized in gas engines to generate electricity.

One of the principal advantages of biofuels lies in their lower carbon intensity compared to traditional fossil fuels. With a carbon intensity of 230 gCO2eq/kWh, biofuels emit significantly less carbon dioxide than coal (820 gCO2eq/kWh) and oil (650 gCO2eq/kWh). This reduction in carbon emissions is pivotal for mitigating climate change and reducing air pollution, which are significant concerns associated with fossil fuel energy sources. Biofuels offer a promising alternative to contribute to a cleaner energy mix, which includes other low-carbon sources like wind, solar, and nuclear.

Biofuels currently account for approximately 1.79% of global electricity consumption, with some countries significantly integrating biofuels into their energy mix. For instance, in Finland, 10% of electricity is generated from biofuels. Denmark harnesses biofuels to meet 14% of its electricity needs, while in Martinique and Guadeloupe, this figure stands at 17% and 15%, respectively. Uruguay also relies on biofuels for 13% of its electricity. These numbers highlight the role biofuels can play in diversifying electricity sources with options that help maintain low carbon emissions.

The use of biofuels complements other clean energy technologies by providing a reliable alternative to fossil fuels. Meanwhile, wind, solar, and nuclear remain key pillars for producing clean, sustainable electricity. Wind and solar feature among the lowest emissions sources, with carbon intensities of 11 gCO2eq/kWh and 45 gCO2eq/kWh, respectively, while nuclear leads the low-carbon group at 12 gCO2eq/kWh. These energy sources together form a robust strategy for decarbonizing the electricity sector, emphasizing the importance of transitioning away from fossil fuels to address both climate concerns and environmental health issues. Supporting and expanding the capacity for wind, solar, and nuclear power will significantly aid in ensuring a sustainable energy future.