Increasing the climate benefits of bioenergy by including the carbon opportunity cost of biomass in energy system models

Bioenergy is a crucial component to achieve ambitious climate goals.

However, bioenergy also carries the risk of greenhouse gas emissions due to land use change, and the magnitude of these emissions depends on the type of feedstock and its origin. Most energy system models that analyze future energy scenarios assume that all bioenergy sources are carbon-neutral.

In this project, we aim to utilize two reputable models to calculate the carbon alternative cost for various bioenergy resources. Subsequently, these estimates will be implemented in PyPSA, a leading European energy system model.

This approach allows us to analyze which bioenergy resources contribute to a climate-friendly energy system and determine the sectors where these resources can be best utilized.

The project contributes to both important methodological advancements and insights that are crucial for future policy decisions. A broad reference group will be involved and a stakeholder workshop will conclude the project.