Tools - Modelling Systems

RESolve-biomass

Allocation of biomass for energy in EU-27

RESolve-biomass is an optimization model. The aim of the model is:

Find the minimal additional cost allocation along the bio-energy supply chain in the 27 European Union Member States (EU-27), given projections on energy demand, biomass potentials and technological progress.

The additional costs are here defined as costs with respect to reference fossil commodities. The bio-energy supply chain, as used in the model, is schematically given in the figure below.

Countries: All EU-27 Member States +  import from the rest of the world

Time horizon: 2005 – 2030 (in one year intervals)

The RESolve-biomass model incorporates  renewable energy policies to allow for a more realistic optimization. To fine-tune the biomass allocation over the horizon 2005-2030, there is an iterative linkage with two complementary sector models: RESolve-E and RESolve-H. These models give projections of respectively the renewable electricity and heat sector and excel in covering the penetration paths of technologies and the interaction with competing renewable options. After a few iterations a consistent image is reached. Relevant output of RESolve-biomass covers:
- The biomass share in the different sectors: electricity, heat and transport
- Avoided fossil energy consumption.
- Costs (direct and in comparison with fossil competitors).
- Greenhouse gas emission reductions.

The RESolve-biomass model was initially designed to only cover the EU27 biofuel sector. However, during the Biomass Futures project, the model has been extended with bio-heat and bio-electricity demand segments as well.

As part of the Biomass Futures project the biomass potentials for the EU27 have been made up to date.

Publications
Description RESolve models
Description of the model before the extension with electricity and heat
Article in Biomass and Bioenergy
Article on learning curves
Modelling results from Biomass Futures

Projects
VIEWLS
REFUEL
ELOBIO
Biomass Futures

For more information please contact Joost van Stralen.