Bioenergy with CO2 Removal and Disposal : An Approach to Negative CO2 Emissions in Energy Systems

• In this paper, we present results from studies on bioenergy systems with CO2 removal and disposal (BCRD). CO2 removal and disposal that could prevent CO2 from fuel combustion entering the atmosphere is usually discussed in connection to fossil fuels. Even with very efficient CO2 removal in fossil fuel-based systems, there will always be positive net CO2 emissions. We show, on the other hand, that BCRD enables energy utilisation with a clearly negative CO2 balance. We present the first preliminary results from an economic assessment of BCRD, and review studies on the economics of CO2 removal in fossil-based systems for further guidance in estimating BCRD costs. We conclude that co-firing biomass and coal with end-of-pipe scrubbing technology promises to be one cost-effective BCRD option in the short term. In the long-term, systems with integrated biomass gasification promise lower additional CO2 removal costs, and black liquor gasification in chemical pulp mills is a particularly promising niche. Swedish and global CO2 reductions potential of this technology are estimated. Finally, some important policy-relevant questions related to the potential of BCRD are raised.

Subject headings

TEKNIK OCH TEKNOLOGIER  -- Maskinteknik -- Energiteknik (hsv//swe)

ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY  -- Mechanical Engineering -- Energy Engineering (hsv//eng)

Keyword

CO2 removal

biomass

bioenergy

carbon balance

CO2 reduction

CO2 avoidance cost

black liquor

Publication and Content Type

vet (subject category)

kon (subject category)