Abstract
The main objective of this activity is to provide a contextual analysis for the CO2 reduction
potential of using black pellets for energy production in Romania. The secondary objectives
are to map currently available technologies for using biomass in the energy sector, to do a
detailed analysis of black pellets technology, to do a comparative analysis of black pellets
technologies, and to estimate CO2 emissions reduction potential of the black pellet
technology. Black pellets have properties similar to that of coal, thus is a promising
environmentally friendly alternative for energy production. Black pellets can be produced
from biomass such as wood or wood waste that can be cultivated in Romania. Precise
distribution of wood waste products and amounts can be useful for more accurate
evaluation of feedstock availability in Romania. Steam explosion and steam torrefaction
technologies are the most utilized for black pellets production. The total CO2 estimates for
power generated from black pellets and coal amount to 16.27 and 272.10 kt of CO2 per
year, respectively. The significant difference in emissions is mainly due to the higher
emissions associated with coal extraction and the release of CO2 during the combustion of
coal for power production. Finally, power generation from black pellets results in net-zero
emissions from combustion since biomass captures and stores CO2 during its lifetime.
potential of using black pellets for energy production in Romania. The secondary objectives
are to map currently available technologies for using biomass in the energy sector, to do a
detailed analysis of black pellets technology, to do a comparative analysis of black pellets
technologies, and to estimate CO2 emissions reduction potential of the black pellet
technology. Black pellets have properties similar to that of coal, thus is a promising
environmentally friendly alternative for energy production. Black pellets can be produced
from biomass such as wood or wood waste that can be cultivated in Romania. Precise
distribution of wood waste products and amounts can be useful for more accurate
evaluation of feedstock availability in Romania. Steam explosion and steam torrefaction
technologies are the most utilized for black pellets production. The total CO2 estimates for
power generated from black pellets and coal amount to 16.27 and 272.10 kt of CO2 per
year, respectively. The significant difference in emissions is mainly due to the higher
emissions associated with coal extraction and the release of CO2 during the combustion of
coal for power production. Finally, power generation from black pellets results in net-zero
emissions from combustion since biomass captures and stores CO2 during its lifetime.
