Possibility of utilizing agriculture biomass as a renewable and sustainable future energy source

Abstract

Issues related to depletion of conventional fuel resources and environmental concerns have become the driving force to explore an environment friendly, renewable, economical and sustainable alternate energy source. Huge quantities of agriculture biomass are being produced globally which can be transformed to biofuels by utilizing various procedures. However, issues such as environmental damages and competing uses of agriculture biomass need to be investigated factually considering the short as well as long-term acuity considering its effect on the soil and conversion to biofuels. This review provides an insight into the potential of various biomass as an energy source. Presently available conversion techniques to convert biomass to energy in various phases are discussed. The review also addresses the technical, socio-economic and environmental concerns and limitations with the appropriate control measures. Present study revealed that by the year 2020 most of the developed countries including the USA, Canada, China and Poland are switching to, renewable energy including agriculture biomass. Techno-economic analysis performed shows the feasibility of utilizing agriculture biomass as a competitive energy source. The information provided will help stakeholders, energy managers and decision makers working in the sustainable and renewable energy sectors to consider agriculture biomass for energy production at a larger scale.