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Biomass Fiber Supply
23rd December, 2009
Brazil Conference Focuses on Biomass Fiber Supply for Europe!
Most studies have indicated that Europe will likely have to import substantial quantities of biomass fiber (mostly pellets) to meet projected levels of biomass energy over the coming decade. The United Kingdom is perhaps the best example of this need --- as the chart indicates, total timber production for all end-uses in 2007 was 9.4 million green tonnes. But demand for all announced biomass power plants indicates an annual wood fiber demand of more than 35 million green tonnes.
But where will this wood come from? Who will benefit from this potentially huge new market? These questions and others will be the focus of discussion at the 4th Global Wood Fiber Conference, in Sao Paulo, Brazil, March 2010. Following on successful similar meetings in Uruguay (2005), Australia (2007), and Singapore (2008), this meeting has become the most important networking conference for suppliers of woodchips and biomass fiber around the world. Feature speakers on biomass energy and the European market will include:
- Ben Ellsworth, Director, MGT Power - this UK company already has permits in place for a 295 MW biomass power plant in Teesport, and has plans for a similar facility in Tyneside.
- Asko Dahlbom, Deputy Managing Director, Vapo - This Finnish company is one of the largest producers and marketers of wood pellets in Europe.
- Bob Flynn, Director, International Timber, RISI -- The USA has been viewed as potentially the largest source of biomass for Europe, but demand for biomass fiber is also surging in the US --- what will happen with supply and prices?