Biomass Supply Research Articles

Sustainable production of a highly pure (R,R)-2,3-butanediol from crude glycerol using metabolically engineered Klebsiella pneumoniae GEM167 strain

BackgroundAmong 2,3-butanediol (2,3-BDO) stereoisomers, (R,R)-2,3-BDO is particularly noteworthy for its application in the agricultural industry. It is an eco-friendly plant immune system stimulant, promoting plant growth and enhancing resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses.ResultsThis study aimed to address the limitations of a previous study, which produced (R,R)-2,3-BDO with only 98% purity despite Kp-dhaD overexpression. First, BLi-gldA demonstrated significantly higher activity and selectivity in converting racemic acetoin to (R,R)-2,3-BDO compared to others among 2,3-BDO dehydrogenases (Kp-dhaD and Kp-gldA from Klebsiella pneumoniae, and BLi-gldA from Bacillus licheniformis). The K. pneumoniae GEM167 ΔadhEΔldhAΔbudC-BLi-gldA/pETM6 strain produced the highest (R,R)-2,3-BDO amount, with 99% purity (73.51 ± 1.69 g/L at 48 h), by isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside addition at the early exponential growth phase (6 h) compared to other cell growth phases. The availability of crude glycerol was investigated, and crude glycerol promoted cell growth resulting in efficient (R,R)-2,3-BDO in the early stage of culture [90.32 ± 1.12 g/L (R,R)-2,3-BDO with 99.0% purity after 60 h]. The productivity and yield remained comparable for crude glycerol (1.51 g/L/h, 0.41 g/g) and pure glycerol (1.53 g/L/h, 0.43 g/g).ConclusionsThis study successfully produced 99% enantiopure (R,R)-2,3-BDO from crude glycerol for the first time using the K. pneumoniae GEM167 ΔadhEΔldhAΔbudC-BLi-gldA/pETM6 strain. (R,R)-2,3-BDO production from crude glycerol, a biodiesel process byproduct, is expected to contribute to a sustainable and circular biomass supply chain and biodiesel production system by positively influencing the stable cultivation of biodiesel crops even under unpredictable climate conditions.Graphical abstract

Modelling and optimisation of low-indirect land used change biomass supply chains

Biofuels derived from biomass feedstocks produced following the implementation of measures that avoid indirect land used change (ILUC) have the potential of reducing dependency on fossil-based fuels without competing with food value chain. This work develops a model- and optimisation-based methodologies that address challenges related to the production of low-ILUC biomass feedstocks. Case studies investigated include planning of Iow-ILUC biomass feedstock production, biomethane production using low-ILUC biomass feedstocks, integrated production of first generation (1G) and second generation (2G) bioethanol using Miscanthus, and production of hydrotreated vegetable oil (HVO) using castor seeds. Analysis of results show that farmers interested in these models are recommended to sell low-ILUC biomass such as soybean, wheat and brassica above the breakeven price to avoid losses. The estimated selling price for the three crops are 362 €/t, 321 €/t and 381 €/t respectively. To meet the demand of 40,000 t/yr of 2G bioethanol in the UK, approximately 17,094 ha of underutilised land is required. Policy makers should consider options to support alternatives such as retrofitting, and inter-cropping to avoid or mitigate ILUC.

Robust optimization of regional biomass supply chain system design and operation with data-driven uncertainties

To address climate change and ensure energy security, biomass energy has become a popular renewable energy alternative to traditional fossil fuels. This study focuses on the strategic planning and tactical management problem of a regional biomass supply chain system with multiple feedstock and final products. A novel SVC-based data-driven robust optimization model is developed to provide the tradeoff solutions under uncertainties. Compared with the traditional robust optimization model, it can better depict the uncertain sets, reduce data redundancy, and provide less conservative strategies for decision makers according to their risk preferences. The proposed model is validated through a case study, Meizhou city in China. The results suggested the optimal investment scale and site for biorefineries and biomass power plants at the strategic planning level, as well as the feedstock supply network, inventory management, and production arrangement at the tactic management level. The optimal robust solutions can be derived by varying the envelope level of the uncertain sets. Moreover, sensitivity analysis is performed to investigate the influences of the variations of key parameters. It is found that the produced bioethanol and electricity lack cost advantages in the current situation, even with a 30 % reduction in main cost parameters. Insufficient biomass yield may require extra capital investment to satisfy bioenergy demand but with a higher supply cost. Thus, a high and long-term subsidy is necessary to facilitate the sustainable development of biomass and the low-carbon transition of the energy sector.

Assessing the impacts of low-carbon intensity hydrogen integration in oil refineries

This paper evaluates the potential impacts of introducing low-carbon intensity hydrogen technologies in two oil refineries with different complexity levels, emphasizing the role of hydrogen production in reducing CO2 emissions. The novelty of this work lies in three key aspects: Comprehensive system analysis of refinery complexity using real site data, integration of low-carbon Hydrogen technologies, long-term and short-term strategies. Two Colombian refineries serve as case studies, with technological solutions adapted to their complexity levels. The methodology involves evaluating different options for hydrogen production, accounting for improvement in technological efficiency over time.The refinery systems were evaluated in a cost-optimization model built in Linny-r. Three different scenarios were considered, Business-As-Usual (BAU), high, and low-ambitions decarbonization scenarios, focusing on the time horizons of 2030 and 2050.When comparing the two case studies, the preferred decarbonization strategy for both facilities involves the substitution of SMR technology with water electrolyzers powered by renewable electricity. Post-2030, biomass-based hydrogen technology is still a costly alternative; however, to achieve CO2 neutrality, negative emissions storage of biogenic CO2 emerges as an achievable alternative.Our results indicate the achievability of CO2 reduction objectives in both refineries. Our results show that achieving long-term CO2 neutrality requires both refineries to increase renewable electricity production by 5 to 6 times for powering water electrolyzers, steam production by 2 to 2.5 times for CO2 capture, and supply of dry biomass by 2.6 to 4.5 kt/d.The two most significant factors influencing the refining net margin in the decarbonization scenarios are primarily the CO2 and the renewable electricity prices. The short-term horizon emerges as the pivotal period, particularly within the high-ambition decarbonization scenarios. In this context, the medium complexity refinery demonstrates economic viability until a CO2 price of 140 €/t CO2, while the high complexity refinery endures up to 205 €/t CO2.The high complexity refinery is better prepared to face the challenges of decarbonization and the impacts generated on the refining margin. Compared to the BAU scenario, the high complexity refinery shows a negative impact on the net margin that corresponds to a 40 % and 5 % reduction in the short and long term, respectively. Meanwhile, for the medium complexity refinery, the impact on net margin amounts to a 52 % reduction in the short term and a 27 % improvement in the long term.Furthermore, our research highlights the significant potential for reducing CO2 emissions by fully eliminating the use of refinery gas as fuel, providing alternative applications for it beyond combustion.

Exploring local lignocellulosic substrates for the production of edible mushrooms in Northwestern Argentina

La Rioja province annually produces approximately 75,000 tons of agricultural residues and derived materials from agro-industrial activities, which could potentially be incorporated into oyster mushroom cultivation. This study aimed to evaluate the viability of this lignocellulosic biomass as a substrate for the cultivation of edible mushrooms belonging to the genus Pleurotus. Initially, the mycelial growth of two species (P. ostreatus and P. djamor) was assessed by formulating combinations of local substrates. Experimental crops were grown employing the most promising substrates, which were subsequently selected for chemical characterization. It was found that both strains exhibited maximum mycelial growth in the substrate formulated with jojoba leaf litter. A comparison of the two strains revealed no direct correlation between mycelium growth and productive performance. The highest biological efficiency (BE) values were obtained when P. ostreatus was cultivated in treatments combining jojoba leaf litter and grape pomace with olive pomace. Furthermore, these treatments showed suitable chemical properties and were formulated from problematic waste generated in large quantities in the region without proper processing and disposal methods. In this context, there is potential to ensure a continuous supply of this lignocellulosic biomass for cultivating these mushroom species over an extended period of time, thus providing a sustainable alternative for these regional by-products.

Biomass-Driven Polygeneration Coupled to Power-to-X: An Energy and Economic Comparison Between On-Site Electric Vehicle Charging and Hydrogen Production

The power-to-X strategy for passenger car applications offers a viable solution for using the surplus electrical power from renewable energy sources instead of exporting it to the grid. The innovative system proposed in this study allocates surplus electrical power from a building-integrated biomass-based Combined Cooling Heating and Power (CCHP) system to on-site applications and evaluates the energetic and economic benefits. The system comprises two key components: a 50 kW electric vehicle (EV) charging station for EVs and a 50 kW alkaline electrolyzer system for on-site hydrogen production, which is later dispensed to fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). The primary goal is to decrease the surplus of electricity exports while simultaneously encouraging sustainable transportation. The system’s economic viability is assessed through two scenarios of fuel (e.g., biomass) supply costs (e.g., with and without fuel market costs) and compared to the conventional approach of exporting the excess power. The key findings of this work include a substantial reduction in surplus electricity exports, with only 3.7% allocated for EV charging and 31.5% for hydrogen production. The simple payback period (SPB) is notably reduced, enhancing economic viability. Sensitivity analysis identifies the optimal hydrogen system, featuring a 120 kW electrolyzer and a 37 kg daily hydrogen demand. The results underscore the importance of prioritizing self-consumed energy over exports to the national grid, thereby supporting integrated renewable energy solutions that enhance local energy utilization and promote sustainable transportation initiatives.

Greenhouse Gas Emission Estimation Using Extended Input–Output Tables for Thailand’s Biomass Pellet Industry

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from Thailand’s biomass pellet production were comprehensively assessed, with a specific focus on wood and corn pellets. Employing the extended input and output tables, the anticipated economic and environmental effects of the rising demand for biomass pellets within the Asia–Pacific Economic Cooperation region, which is projected to see an increase exceeding 33% by the year 2050, were investigated. The estimations of CO2, CH4, and N2O emissions, which were conducted utilizing an open Leontief model based on the 2015 National Input–Output Tables, covered each stage of the production process. The results show that emissions from the production of corn pellets are expected to rise steadily, from 52.91 MtCO2e in 2022 to 75.77 MtCO2e by 2030, whereas emissions from wood pellet production are set to increase more substantially, from 210.30 to 301.18 MtCO2e within the same timeframe. Data derived from surveys and interviews with corn farmers and wood pellet manufacturers informed the lifecycle data for the biomass pellet supply chain from cradle to gate. The findings suggest that Thailand’s power sector could benefit significantly from the biomass potential in the northern part of Thailand, which boasts an estimated energy content of corncob at 39 ktoe (0.0016 TJ). Market demand scenarios were explored in two forms: one where it was assumed that all biomass pellets are to be exported to Japan and South Korea, expecting a combined demand of approximately 560,262 tons by 2030, and another positing that 10% of production will be reserved for the domestic market, with a forecasted annual increase of 10% from 2020 to 2050. This paper highlights the need to prioritize low-emission renewable energy sources, expand technologies with lower lifecycle emissions, optimize the biomass supply chain to enhance efficiency, and introduce sustainable energy practices. The detailed GHG emissions analysis provides critical insights for policy formulation, underscoring the importance of sustainable transitions in the context of increasing biomass demand.

Operational optimization of a rural multi-energy system supported by a joint biomass-solid-waste-energy conversion system and supply chain

Biomass, as one of the most accessible renewable resources, could reduce dependency on fossil fuels and mitigate associated environmental impacts. With economic development and improved living standards, biomass in rural areas is converted into various forms of energy to meet high energy demands. However, existing studies on rural multi-energy system operations assume energy production from biomass is a given input parameter and consider it to be a fixed constant or subject to upper and lower bounds, independent of the biomass supply chain. Indeed, biomass energy production is significantly influenced by the collection, transportation, storage, and other processes within the supply chain. This work proposes a mixed integer linear program (MILP) for the joint optimization of an integrated rural multi-biomass-solid waste energy conversion system with a source-grid-demand-based biomass-solid waste supply chain (IRMBS-BSC system). The IRMBS-BSC system encompasses three sub-systems: the biomass-solid waste source sub-system, the biomass-solid waste grid sub-system, and the biomass-solid waste demand sub-system. Various biomass-solid wastes are classified, and a source model is established to evaluate their availability. Subsequently, a supply chain model is developed within the biomass-solid waste grid sub-system. Based on the available and transported quantity from the biomass-solid waste source sub-system and grid sub-system, a multi-energy system operation model, considering refined biomass conversion processes, is proposed. A case study involving a multi-energy system that integrates multiple rural community biomass-solid waste supplies is conducted. The results demonstrate that the proposed MILP, which considers the biomass-solid waste supply chain, can reduce energy imports during the load peak periods and can also decrease the overall operational costs of the multi-energy system.

Farmers’ willingness to introduce short-rotation tree plantations on agricultural land: A case study in southern Sweden

To meet climate targets, expanding Populus spp. tree cultivation is proposed as a potential biomass feedstock, especially on agricultural land that does not come into conflict with food production. However, biomass potential assessments typically overlook landowners' perspectives, risking a gap between theoretical potentials and realisation. Here, we test empirical consequences of two hypotheses based on a survey targeting southern Swedish farmers: 1) Relying exclusively on agricultural land cover data to identify abandoned agricultural land leads to an overestimation of the total agricultural land that can be utilised for future biomass production from Populus spp. feedstocks. 2) The absence of data on farmers' intentions to cultivate fast-growing tree species on agricultural land leads to overestimation of the potential biomass supply from Populus spp. in biomass assessments. Findings suggest that less than 50 % of farmers with unsubsidised arable land, which is often assumed to be abandoned, would consider cultivating these tree species on this type of land (26 % [7–48]). Furthermore, only 11 % [6–17] would consider cultivating Populus spp. on agricultural land overall during 2021–2030, indicating a generally low level of interest among farmers. However, higher rates were observed in forested areas. The projected near-future cultivation potential of 2.0 kha [1.1–3.0] suggests an at least threefold overestimation in previous theoretical assessments. This study highlights a disparity between biophysical land data and producer perspectives, showing that neglecting farmers’ perspectives risks overestimating the biomass supply, potentially leading to misguided expectations and inefficient policies. Our findings support targeted policy recommendations.

Effects of different culture media on growth, composition, quality and palatability of the green algae Ulva sp. cultivated in cylindrical photobioreactors

Ulva spp. are valuable seaweeds with recognized commercial applications, including food, feed, and ecosystem services. Ensuring a sustainable and consistent supply of biomass with desirable profiles aligned with intended uses is fundamental for the successful applications of this seaweed. In this study, the growth rate, morphology, physiology, and composition of Ulva sp. produced by propagation in indoor cylindrical photobioreactors using four different culture media (lagoon water - LW, lagoon water enriched with Guillard medium (LF), with sea urchin wastewater - LU, and cow digestate - LD) was assessed; moreover, the nutrient uptake potential of the species was evaluated. The palatability and attractivity of the produced biomass towards the sea urchin Paracentrotus lividus were investigated. It was found that the media influenced all the parameters examined, the LF biomass weight was double compared to the other treatments and showed a slightly higher absorbance. Colorimetric analyses reported a significant darker color in Ulva sp. grown under enriched media. Ulva sp. showed higher nutrient removal potential in LF. The lipid content did not vary (2–3 % dry weight, DW), while the protein content ranged from 21 % in LF to 6–9 % in the other treatments. Carbohydrates and fiber content were significantly lower in LF (16 % and 30 %) compared to the other treatments, 27–34 %, and 41–48 %, respectively. Pigment content significantly varied, being higher in biomass grown in LF and LU. Sea urchins showed preferences for biomass grown under LU, followed by LD. This study shows how different nutrient sources affect the biochemical composition, growth, quality, and palatability of Ulva sp.. When cultivated under the synthetic enriched media (LF) the species exhibits characteristics better suitable for human consumption, although requiring a higher economic investment for production, while biomass derived from wastewater nutrients (LD, LU) confirms potential applications of the seaweed as valuable feed and for bioremediation services.

Development of a Residual Biomass Supply Chain Simulation Model Using AnyLogistix: A Methodical Approach

Background: In the pursuit of sustainable energy sources, residual biomass has emerged as a promising renewable resource. However, efficiently managing residual biomass poses significant challenges, particularly in optimizing supply chain operations. Advanced modeling approaches are necessary to address these complexities. This study aims to develop a comprehensive methodological framework for creating simulation models tailored to agroforestry residual biomass supply chains. Methods: The study employs a hybrid simulation approach, integrating geographic information system mapping with a case study analysis. The simulation was conducted over a 365-day period, using the anyLogistix software (version 2.15.3.202209061204) to model various supply chain dynamics. The framework also accounts for financial, operational, customer satisfaction, and environmental metrics. Results: The simulation results showed a total expenditure of EUR 5,219,411.3, with transportation being the primary cost driver, involving 5678 trips and a peak capacity of 67.16 m3. CO2 emissions were measured at 487.7 kg/m3. The model performed as expected, highlighting the need for sustainable logistics strategies to reduce costs, lower losses, and improve productivity. Conclusions: This study presents one of the first detailed methodological frameworks for simulating agroforestry residual biomass supply chains. It provides valuable managerial insights into the financial, operational, and environmental aspects of supply chain management. The findings may stakeholders make informed decisions to enhance the sustainability of biomass utilization in energy production.

Strategic supply and transportation planning of a supply chain for agricultural biomass to hydrogen and syngas

Strategic supply and transportation planning of agricultural biomass to hydrogen and syngas supply chain with inter-fuel and inter-biomass substitution was studied in this paper. The sourcing and transportation decision was modeled, according to bi-level optimization, where suppliers competed on supply capacity by maximizing their profits at minimum transportation and holding cost. Considering supply chain superstructure, dual biomass suppliers were modeled to supply a biofuel producer who produced two different types of biofuels. The supply planning was combined with transportation planning to minimize total supply chain costs. The results showed that the model was capable of finding optimum purchase and selling prices and production capacity, by maximizing inter-fuel and inter-biomass substitutability. Another key finding was that the proposed model was capable of finding optimum order allocation to both biomass suppliers in such a way that there was an equal profit distribution between suppliers and biofuel producers.

Integrated optimization framework for a biomass supply network and steam Rankine cycle

Integrated optimization framework for a biomass supply network and steam Rankine cycle

Biomass supply chain coordination considering government subsidies and corporate social responsibility

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of various decision-making approaches and government subsidies on supply chain performance, aiming to enhance the profits of disposal firms and retailers as well as to improve social welfare.Design/methodology/approachIn this paper, a two-echelon biomass supply chain composed of a disposal firm and a retailer is developed. Firstly, considering the effects of government subsidies, we analyze biofuels prices, corporate social responsibility levels, social welfare and supply chain profitability under centralized and decentralized decision-making scenarios, respectively. Furthermore, we assess how subsidies influence pricing, market participation, profitability and social welfare. Secondly, we propose a revenue sharing–cost sharing contract to enhance the profits of the disposal firm and retailer. Thirdly, we extend the supply chain to a disposal firm and two retailers and explore the impact of competition intensity on corporate decision-making behavior. Finally, numerical analysis is conducted by taking one biomass energy firm as an example to support the results.FindingsOur research finds that (1) Equilibrium strategies under the centralized decision-making scenario are greater than those under the decentralized decision-making scenario. Centralized decision-making can increase market demand and consumer surplus. (2) Government subsidies can promote corporate social responsibility levels, despite causing a slight increase in retail price for biofuels. When market competition intensifies, companies usually reduce their investment in CSR, and this trend is particularly pronounced in the absence of subsidies. (3) In both the decentralized and the centralized decision-making scenarios, increasing conversion rates and the CSR coefficient can significantly increase the overall profitability and social welfare.Research limitations/implicationsA three-echelon biomass supply chain involving collection station, disposal firm and retailer can be studied in the future.Originality/valueBy examining the effects of subsidies on CSR engagement and market outcomes, our study contributes valuable insights into policy design for promoting sustainable practices in biomass industries.

Fuel for collective action: A SWOT analysis to identify social barriers and drivers for a local woody biomass supply chain in an Italian alpine valley

The role of woody biomass in the clean energy transition is substantial in the EU. Forest residues are one of the main biomass sources that can be used for energy production, but their use to support the energy transition is still limited for several reasons. Research has shown that the use of forest residues in energy production can be effectively stimulated through collective actions that aim to develop short and local supply chains. This study aims to identify the barriers and drivers for the development of a local supply chain for forest residues in an Italian alpine valley, gathering and analysing the perspectives of all involved local actors, that is, (i) suppliers - the communities that own the forest resources, (ii) intermediaries - the forest professionals providing extension and advice services to owners and the harvesting companies; and (iii) the final consumers, in this case the local municipalities and hospitality enterprises. Data are analysed using a SWOT analysis. The results show that the suppliers identified opportunities especially, while the final consumers focused more on strengths, weaknesses, and threats. The SWOT categories in terms of the number of different factors were weaknesses (37 %), strengths (27 %), threats (18 %), and opportunities (17 %). Opportunities and strengths were considered as drivers, while threats and weaknesses were barriers. Several drivers emerged, such as a general predisposition toward the development of a local supply chain for forest residues, social homogeneity in terms of knowledge and management of the land, and common challenges. Barriers also emerged in the form of limited know-how on the supply chain potential, but also in limited availability to concede control between different forest owners over their property. The SWOT results are useful to design strategies to support the development of the supply chain: four possible strategies, amongst which flexible cooperation processes between different categories of stakeholders, and the organisation of a buying group of the hospitality enterprises, were suggested.

Information sharing and channel encroachment in biomass supply chains

Information sharing and channel encroachment in biomass supply chains

Assessing the Potential of Biomass Power Generation for Renewable Energy Transition in South Papua Province, Indonesia

This study aims to explore the potential for biomass-based power plant to accelerate the development of renewable energy to replace the role of fossil energy in Merauke district, South Papua Province. The method used in this study is, first, to collect data and analyze the load on the grid system and the portion of the energy mix as well as the availability of woody biomass from forest areas by making a simulation of the development of a 2 x 12 MW Biomass Power Plant. Second, by conducting experiments to obtain woodchip conversion, as the fuel of the Biomass Power Plant, from the wood log and conversion from Biomass Power Plant capacity to the required biomass plantation area. The results provide an overview of the big potency for developing biomass-based power generation by utilizing biomass from the local industrial plantation forest and show the energy transition towards energy independence. This study can be useful for policy makers and opportunities for entrepreneurs or suppliers of wood biomass, as well. For the future, in terms of fuel efficiency, it is necessary to reduce the plantation area as a source of biomass for power plants by reducing the moisture content of the woodchip to increase the calorific value and utilizing the forest residue. Furthermore, the comparison cost study between fossil power plant and biomass power plant, as well as the strategy for preserving the plantation to ensure a steady biomass supply is conducted.

Optimizing biomass supply chains: A probabilistic approach to managing uncertainties in southwest Nigeria

Efficient and sustainable use of biomass resources is crucial to meet the increasing demand for bio-based products and renewable energy. The biomass supply chain, which includes harvesting, collecting, logistics, storage, and pre-treatment, faces challenges due to uncertainties such as market fluctuations, equipment availability, weather conditions, and transportation constraints. These uncertainties often hinder the optimisation of the supply chain. This research work explores the performance of the biomass supply chain by optimizing operations while accounting for these uncertainties. Nigeria is faced with power issues and there are resources to combat the problem through generation of cleaner energy from biomass. Using mathematical modelling, the study evaluates the impact of uncertainty on key performance areas like feedstock supply, inventory management, transportation efficiency, and processing capacity. The research demonstrates the importance of incorporating uncertainty-aware solutions to minimize risks and improve the flexibility of the biomass supply chain. Sensitivity analyses and case studies shows that the proposed probabilistic modelling approach provides valuable insights into system vulnerabilities and effective strategies for optimizing operations under uncertain conditions. The findings highlight the potential of this approach to improve decision making, resource allocation, and promote sustainable practices in the biomass sector. Ultimately, the study contributes to advancing biomass supply chain management, paving the way for a more resilient and efficient use of bioresources.

Utilization of Sengon Wood Sawdust as Bio-Pellet Feedstock: Characteristics, Potential, and Feasibility for Renewable Energy

The pellet-making process involves stages of drying, compaction, cooling, and size separation. Considering that Indonesia has great potential for biomass supply, this research aims to identify the characteristics of bio-pellets produced from sengon wood sawdust based on the pellet standard SNI8675:2018. The results showed that the highest calorific value at the Dry Basis (DB) condition was 4703 Kcal/kg, meeting national and international standards. The moisture content in the As Received (AR) condition was recorded at 10.36%, while the lowest ash content was 1.72%. The highest combustion rate was found in sample 3, with a value of 0.174 gr/min, indicating good combustion performance. The utilization of sengon wood sawdust as bio-pellets can be an efficient and environmentally friendly renewable energy solution, and has the potential to be further developed to support diversification and national energy security.

The impact of land-use policy on household energy transition: Evidence from China's conversion of cropland to forestland program

The implementation of the Conversion of Cropland to Forestland Program (CCFP) has affected land-use patterns and biomass availability in China, consequently reshaping household energy consumption patterns. Utilizing data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study, this study employs a multinomial logit model to examine the impact of CCFP subsidies on household energy transitions, analyzed through the lenses of the energy ladder and energy types. Additionally, this study differentiates the effects of CCFP subsidies across households with varying characteristics. The empirical results reveal that, from the energy ladder perspective, CCFP subsidies hinder household energy transitions from biomass to both traditional and advanced commercial energy sources. From the energy type perspective, the subsidies impede transitions from biomass energy to coal, electricity, and LPG/LNG. These adverse effects may be attributed to the CCFP subsidy's role in increasing biomass supply and encouraging the use of biomass energy equipment. Moreover, the impacts of CCFP subsidies differ among households based on education level, location, and degree of engagement in farming. Overall, this study highlights the importance of considering land use policies and patterns in the formulation of energy policies aimed at promoting energy transition and alleviating energy poverty.