Other Bioenergy Uses

Bioenergy is one of the most versatile clean energy technologies. From electricity generation to fuel for transportation and heat for buildings and industry, bioenergy is found in more places than any other clean energy source.

Industrial Processes

Industrial process heating, combined heat-and-power systems, and home heating systems represent the predominant uses of bioenergy around the world. In U.S. home heating applications, wood or pelletized wood products are the predominant fuel sources. Biodiesel is an emerging home heating option in the northeastern United States because it can be used as an additive to conventional heating oil and burned in the furnaces found in many basements in Massachusetts.

Transportation

This truck's modified engine runs on 95% ethanol (E95).

In the transportation sector, biofuels such as ethanol and biodiesel play a more substantial role overseas than they do in the United States. However, major near-term increases in U.S. production of ethanol are projected because this fuel is a likely replacement for current gasoline additives that can boost octane and reduce pollution. Demand for biodiesel is growing as well due to air quality concerns and consumer choice. Many government agencies are now using biodiesel blends as a substitute for conventional diesel fuel, while some owners of diesel automobiles, pickup trucks, and other vehicles are also opting for this cleaner fuel option.

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