Energy
Bioenergy is a useful and renewable form of energy which can be derived from the biomass of paludiculture. It can be converted into an energy source which is used in direct combustion, biogas plants, as well as liquid biofuels (Joosten & Wichtmann, 2006). The method of conversion depends on a variety of conditions such as the utilized biomass, the desired form of energy, economic necessities and environmental standards (Joosten et al., 2016). Transforming biomass from paludiculture into energy can be a legitimate option for farmers after rewetting their peatlands.
SOLID BIOFUELS
Biomass from paludiculture can be processed in various solid forms. Some examples for solid biofuels are pellets and briquettes, which are made by compressing the biomass into small bodies. The conversion of biomass as fuel is primarily done by combustion (Joosten et al., 2016). Due to the high calorific value and the high efficiency during combustion in combination with tested combustion technology, combustion of biomass from paludiculture is well suited for thermal utilization (Greifswald Mire Centre, n.y.). Since there is a market for heat and power, combustion of biofuel is an effective way of using the biomass from paludiculture (Greifswald Mire Centre, n.y.).
GASEOUS AND LIQUID BIOFUELS
Next to combustion, biomass can be processed to liquid and gaseous energy sources. This allows for further usage, such as fuel for vehicles and the production of electricity and heat (Joosten et al., 2016). Generally speaking, the biogas yield from paludiculture biomass is good. However, its retention time is significantly long than with the usage of corn, thus making it less effective (Greifswald Mire Centre, n.y.). However, testing has shown that biogas yield can be improved by grounding the biomass finer. The corresponding technology to enable this is currently being developed (Joosten et al., 2016).
Liquid biofuels can be produced in the form of bioethanol, which is used as an alternative or additive to liquid fuel (Joosten et al., 2016). These fuels can be produced form a variety of plants such as sugar cane, potatoes, shrubs and trees. Since there is a big market for bioethanol, its production is worthwhile; provided that the production cost is kept low (Joosten et al., 2016). Further processing techniques, using thermo-chemical gasification are currently still being developed, which could potentially synthesize gaseous or liquid biofuels (Joosten et al., 2016).