Possibilities of plant biomass cultivation and use for energy purposes in Lithuania's agriculture

Abstract

A wider use of renewable energy results in a decline in energy raw material imports, in new employment possibilities and a reduction in environmental pollution. One of the key renewable energy sectors is plant biomass utilisation for energy purposes. At present wood fuel accounts for about 97% of the total renewable energy used in rural areas (for agricultural operations and households), while straw fuel accounts for only a small share. This all amounts to about 8.9 PJ. However, agriculture has vast reserves for increasing production and utilisation of renewable energy from plant biomass. The objective of the present study was to define energy potential of plant biomass cultivation and utilisation for energy purposes in Lithuania's agriculture. For the identification of this potential as a guideline we used European Union's perspective plans for the production of this kind of energy. Results of energy sources investigation as well as Lithuanian experience with their use was also considered. It was determined that technical potential of renewable energy generated from plant biomass amounts to 36.4 PJ in rural areas of Lithuania. This exceeds energy and fuel consumption in rural areas by 1.4 (data from 2000). Only 24% of this technical potential is currently exploited. Cultivation of plant biomass for energy purposes can become an alternative business in Lithuanian rural areas.