Conference Dates

April 10-14, 2016

Abstract

Despite the recent agreement by world leaders regarding the need for reductions in CO2 emissions from the global energy system, there will still be substantial amounts of fossil fuels utilized for the next few decades. According to IEA estimates, there will likely be an “overshoot” of the CO2 concentration that is estimated to be needed to restrain average global temperatures increases in the range of 1.5–2˚C. As a result, biomass energy has been proposed as one means to reduce net CO2 emissions and, perhaps, even reduce the level of CO2 in the atmosphere. One approach has been to combine the utilization of biomass with a fossil fuel with subsequent carbon capture and storage (BECCS). In this manner, net CO2 emissions are reduced by both utilizing biomass (carbon neutral) and CCS, leading to a net negative level of emissions. In order for this approach to be successfully implemented, a number of factors need to be realized. The capital cost of such plants must be reduced. The storage sites must be identified, characterized, and permitted. The combined use of biomass and fossil fuels must be treated as a low carbon system and promoted, rather than vilified by all parties involved. This presentation will cover some of the major aspects of these issues.

Download

Share

COinS