Biomass Energy

Biomass energy is created by using organic material, such as treetops and limbs, as fuel. CLF believes that, because it can supply power around the clock, sustainable bioenergy can play a role in the energy future of New England as a complement to wind and solar, which are intermittent.

Still, there are right and wrong ways to use biomass. CLF believes that biomass policy should be guided by the best available science. Each project must be evaluated to determine whether it reduces greenhouse gas emissions as compared to fossil fuel-burning power plants.

A biomass study in Massachusetts revealed that certain types of biomass, such as harvesting and burning whole trees to generate electricity, can actually produce more greenhouse gases than coal. Other types, such as anaerobic digestion – which produces energy by burning methane and other gases released from organic waste – help reduce greenhouse gases. In between those two extremes lies a whole spectrum of biomass types, some of which are ultimately beneficial to the environment and others that may cause more harm than good.

In addition, careful siting, design, and fuel sourcing are required to protect forests and other sources of fuel, limit emissions of pollutants, conserve water used for cooling, and ensure that biomass is used efficiently so as not to waste a limited resource.

CLF is continuing to study the state-by-state and regional impacts of biomass energy and to push for science-based rules to ensure that any biomass-powered facility is in the best interest of our region.

Contact
Susan Reid, senior attorney