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Brendan George - Alternative energy sources in regional NSW – understanding sustainable biomass energy systems

Brendan George

Postgraduate student Brendan George.

There is a clear and growing need for diversifying our energy supply. Energy from biomass is one part of the solution but there is little information regarding the long-term feasibility and sustainability of production from multiple sources, especially for so-called ‘second generation’ systems. Some fundamental questions with direct policy implications for NSW Department of Industry & Investment and NSW Government include:

  • What are some of the critical supply-chain issues (such as Greenhouse Gas Balance) for sustainable production of biomass based in energy from primary industries in NSW?
  • How do we plan for a large-scale biomass energy system for NSW (Australia?)
  • What is a feasible contribution of biomass energy to the overall stationary and transport energy mix?

There are two key methodologies available for research on renewable bioenergy systems.

  1. The preferred approach is to utilise a scenario planning process based on known quantitative modelling systems. Through direct contact with Canadian developers (WhatIf Technologies ) and interaction with CSIRO  there is potential to utilise and develop simulation models for policy and scenario analysis.
  2. The alternative is to utilise Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) procedures and techniques to estimate the GHG and energy balance of potential biomass energy generation pathways. Following definition of key systems this would involve an initial inventory step and then an impact assessment of the options. The selection of the optimum methodology is yet to be completed and will be an initial focus of the research work.

There are significant research needs and requirements leading to better efficiency and utilisation of existing energy sources. This research, however, aims to identify the significant issues and in meeting some of the energy demand through utilisation of biomass material. We need to have some understanding and confidence that the proposed changes are socially, economically and environmentally robust and have the capacity to deliver on the expected benefits (e.g., such as actually delivering a GHG saving). This research aims to elucidate and answer some of the critical questions regarding the capacity for biomass energy to meet society’s requirements through sustained production systems.

The information generated will have direct linkages to the DII (DPI) Framework for Action 2009-12 and policy outcomes sought by the NSW Government through the Biofuels Act 2007. Within the recent amendments to the act sustainability is a critical issue that will be addressed via regulations. It is expected that specific research will address some of the key parameters associated with determining sustainability such as Greenhouse gas balances.