Development of bioenergy in European cities
We often talk about bioenergy as a solution for settlements and regions with poor infrastructure. However, we want to talk about bioenergy as a high-tech sector in large and developed European cities. In such cases, the decision to build a CHP on biomass was based not on the lack of other options, but on the understanding that bioenergy is the most profitable and promising solution. Cities for which 100% RES is a near prospect.
Stockholm
- Population: 2.3 million.
- Biomass: 80% heat; 20% transport.
- Plans for 2030 – 100% of all energy from RES.
Värtan CHP Urban Design – 130 MW of electric power + 280 MW of thermal power is one of the world’s largest biomass CHPs, located in the city center. Moreover, it is an excellent example of modern urban style.
Vilnius
- Population: 550,000.
- Biomass: 85% heat; 25% electricity.
- Plans until 2040 – 100% RES in the heat.
Vilnius CHP – 100 MW of electric power + 240 MW of thermal power is the largest biomass CHP in Eastern Europe. Lithuania’s experience is the most adaptive for Ukraine. For a long time, the city depended on more than 50% for natural gas. At the state level, a decision was made to switch to biomass. As a result, this CHP was built.
Copenhagen
- Population: 1.4 million.
- Biomass: 90% heat; 20% transport; 98% of the housing stock is connected to the DH (+ private sector).
- Plans for 2040 – 100% of all energy from RES.
DH system is completely competitive. The city has several large biomass CHPs with a total heat output of 1.3 GW: Avedøre Coal to biomass conversion, Amager Bakke Wte. For example, the Amager Bakke Wte roof is part of the city’s sports infrastructure with fitness areas, a climbing wall, and a ski slope. Copenhagen is one of the world leaders in the use of biomass in district heating. We will definitely tell you more about Denmark’s unique experience.
Paris
- Population: 10 million.
- Biomass: 30-40% heat; 50% of the housing stock is connected to the district heating.
One of the most densely populated cities in the world has several powerful CHPs, some of which are located directly in the city center: ISSY-Les-Moulineaux, Saint Ouen, IVRY Sur Seine. Total heat capacity on biomass: 800 MW.
We thank UABIO expert Oleksii Epik for an interesting analysis.
