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- ENERGY PRODUCTS AND SOLUTIONS
Bioenergy: definition, benefits and production
Discover what bioenergy is, the main production processes and its contribution to the sustainable management of resources.
The words of energy
What is meant by bioenergy?
Bioenergy includes all forms of energy obtained from materials of biological origin, known as biomass. These are renewable resources that include agricultural and forestry residues, by-products of the agri-food industry, dedicated crops and organic waste. Their wide variety makes it possible to produce energy in solid, liquid or gaseous form, contributing to the diversification of energy sources while enhancing the value of materials available locally. Biomass includes wood, crop residues, the organic fraction of waste, vegetable oils and by-products of animal origin. Its availability supports the development of local supply chains, strengthening the economic and environmental sustainability of the areas in which they operate.
How is bioenergy produced?
Bioenergy is produced through processes that convert biomass into heat, electricity or fuels. Each technology is suited to the characteristics of the feedstock used and enables the production of different energy products:
combustion directly converts solid biomass into heat or electricity;
anaerobic digestion uses microorganisms in the absence of oxygen to produce biogas, which can then be upgraded into biomethane suitable for injection into the gas grid or use in transport;
pyrolysis transforms biomass into biochar, oils and gases through high temperatures in an oxygen-free environment;
gasification produces a combustible gas that can be used to generate electricity or as a feedstock for advanced fuels.
These technologies are complemented by fermentation, a biological process used to produce liquid biofuels such as bioethanol from sugary or lignocellulosic materials. In this field, Eni develops solutions for the production of advanced biofuels, including HVO (Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil) and biomethane, increasingly enhancing the use of organic waste and residues. HVO biofuels are also used in mobility products such as HVOlution and in fuel blends such as Eni Diesel+.
The benefits of bioenergy
Bioenergy plays a significant role in the energy transition. Biomass absorbs CO₂ during its life cycle, and its use results in a more balanced emissions profile than fossil fuels. Local supply chains support regional development, creating new economic opportunities and strengthening the sustainable management of resources. The wide range of available biomass also enables flexible solutions that can be adapted to different production and geographical contexts.
Drawbacks of bioenergy
Bioenergy requires careful management of resources and infrastructure. The availability of biomass varies over time and depends on efficient collection, treatment and transport systems. Conversion technologies involve investments and dedicated facilities, which must be effectively integrated with agricultural and industrial supply chains. It is also essential to ensure sustainable practices throughout the entire production process, in order to avoid excessive pressure on soils, water resources or other potential uses of biomass.
The words of energy
A series explaining in simple terms the energy powering the world, covering natural gas, renewables, sustainable mobility and decarbonisation.
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