The Potential Role for Biomass as a Long-Duration Store of Energy - Executive Summary

Abstract:

This document summarises the outputs of a scoping study that investigated the potential role of biomass as a long-duration energy storage solution to address seasonal and weather-related variations in renewable energy output. The study examined how bioenergy infrastructure, such as seasonally harvested crops and waste wood, could provide flexibility across electricity, heat, and gas systems while considering the implications of integrating biomass with carbon capture and storage (BECCS) for negative emissions. It sought to answer key questions about the technical, commercial, and operational implications of flexible biomass use, the suitability of different fuel and plant types, and the conditions under which BECCS could become viable. It also explored the constraints on biomass supply chains, plant investment, and operation, as well as the competition between UK-produced and international feedstocks. The research aimed to understand the broader implications of using biomass for energy storage, including its economic, environmental, and social impacts. It emphasised the need for a whole-systems approach to evaluate the role of biomass in delivering both negative emissions and energy system flexibility, while addressing gaps in energy system modelling and policy frameworks. A full report of the work is available separately and is referenced in this Executive Summary.

Author(s):

Colechin, K. and Colechin, M.