Bio-coal market study: Macro and micro-environment of the bio-coal business in Finland

Abstract

The general purpose of this paper is to determine the current situation of the Finnish bio-coal sector, and outline a comprehensive picture of the macro and micro-environment related to bio-coal in Finland, as well as to propose, with the help of a SWOT analysis, guidelines and hypotheses regarding how the Finnish market should improve the bio-coal business for the future. The major findings of the study are: 1) the major strength of the Finnish bio-coal sector is its secured biomass supply, higher environmental credentials, and supportive policies. The clear implication here is that the entrance requirement for the bio-coal business is relatively low, “early birds” with foresight will win out; 2) the current weakness of Finnish bio-coal development is undeniable. As an entirely new business, bio-coal does not have a clear development model, which can be attributed to the little market information available, non-viable economic structure, and distribution channels which are not yet available. We would like to advise Finnish companies to work out the cost structure, profit feasibility of the bio-coal business and construct a practicable and sustainable biomass supply system; 3) the opportunities of the Finnish bio-coal sector come along with the national sustainability development policies and construction of a bio-economy. We would suggest that they focus on decentralised local economic sales, biomass supply and energy end use; 4) the crucial threat to the bio-coal sector industry comes from competition with fossil coal and other wood-based biofuels. Improving its competitiveness requires cooperation and integration along the whole supply chain.