Biomass

Biomass includes all organic substances of organic origin that are produced by plants or animals. It is used as an important regenerative energy source for generating electricity and heat and for producing biofuels.

Definition
In terms of energy technology, biomass refers to all recent organic substances. These can be divided into primary products, which are produced directly by photosynthesis, and secondary products, which result from the conversion or decomposition of organic matter.

Background / Origin
The definition of biomass is not based on the Biomass Ordinance (BiomasseV 2001), which identifies specific substances within the framework of the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG). These differences make it possible to consider a broader range of substances as biomass, even if they are not listed in the Biomass Ordinance.

Biomass primary products are products that result directly from the conversion of solar radiation into organic matter. These include, in particular, agricultural and forestry products as well as industrial waste wood. Secondary products are created through the decomposition or conversion of organic matter, for example by animals or organic waste.

In Germany, the Biomass Ordinance regulates the use of biomass, while the Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG) promotes its use for electricity generation. In addition, there are requirements relating to the sustainable cultivation of biomass, which are set out in the Biomass Electricity Sustainability Ordinance (BioSt-NachV).

Properties
Biomass is made up of various organic materials that are intended for direct use or industrial processing. The primary products include

- Plant matter produced through photosynthesis
- Energy crops such as miscanthus and special annual energy grasses
- Plant residues such as straw and forest residues

Secondary products include organic waste resulting from conversion or decomposition processes such as liquid manure, solid manure and sewage sludge.

The quality of biomass can vary greatly depending on its origin and processing methods, while chemical characteristics such as its high energy content and storable solar energy should be emphasized.

Application and importance in the market
Biomass is used in a variety of ways, both directly and after processing into biofuels and biogas. Applications include

- Power generation in biogas plants
- Heat generation in heating plants
- Production of fuels and lubricants, in particular ethanol and biodiesel

The use of biomass as a renewable energy source is the most widespread compared to other renewable forms of energy such as solar and wind energy.

Internationally, the production figures and forms of use of biomass vary depending on regional circumstances and legal regulations.

Differentiation from similar terms
Biomass differs from other forms of energy in that it focuses on organic, renewable raw materials. While fossil fuels are not renewable, biomass is a renewable energy source. Conventional waste materials do not necessarily fall under biomass unless they result from organic substances.

Summary
Biomass is a key source of renewable energy and includes organic matter produced by plants and animals. It is used in electricity generation, heat production and the production of biofuels. In Germany, the Biomass Ordinance regulates its use, while specific laws ensure the sustainability of cultivation. The variety of applications and the high level of use compared to other renewable energies underline its economic and ecological importance.