Description: Dendroenergy refers to the energy derived from trees and other woody plants, and is considered a renewable energy source. This type of energy is primarily obtained through biomass, which includes wood, waste from the forestry and agricultural industries, as well as other organic materials. Dendroenergy is notable for its ability to be used in various forms, such as electricity generation, heating, and biofuel production. Its relevance lies in its potential to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, decrease greenhouse gas emissions, and contribute to environmental sustainability. Additionally, dendroenergy can be a source of income for rural communities, promoting sustainable forest management and reforestation. In a global context where the search for clean energy alternatives is increasingly urgent, dendroenergy presents itself as a viable and accessible option, aligning with sustainable development goals and the transition to low-carbon economies.
History: Dendroenergy has its roots in the traditional use of wood as an energy source, dating back thousands of years. However, its recognition as a form of renewable energy began to gain momentum in the second half of the 20th century, particularly in the 1970s when the oil crisis led to a renewed interest in alternative energy sources. In this context, research was conducted on biomass and its potential as an energy resource, leading to the implementation of technologies for its utilization. Over the years, dendroenergy has evolved with the development of more efficient techniques for biofuel production and electricity generation from biomass.
Uses: Dendroenergy is primarily used in electricity generation, heating, and biofuel production. In electricity generation, biomass plants burn wood or organic waste to produce steam that drives generating turbines. For heating, stoves and boilers that burn wood pellets or chips are used. Additionally, dendroenergy is utilized to produce biofuels, such as bioethanol and biodiesel, from the fermentation of sugars present in biomass. It is also applied in industry, where woody waste is used as raw material for the production of chemicals and sustainable materials.
Examples: An example of dendroenergy is the Lahti biomass plant in Finland, which uses wood waste to generate electricity and heating for the city. Another case is the use of wood pellets in heating stoves in European homes, providing a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. In the biofuel sector, the project for bioethanol production from wood in Brazil illustrates how dendroenergy can contribute to the country’s energy matrix.
