Biomass for energy production characteristics, amount and distribution in Latvia

Abstract

Biomass is one of the largest renewable energy sources in

Latvia. Since 54,7 % of the state area is covered by forests, the

firewood, wood chips and pellets play a significant role in the

heat production, especially at households and municipal heating

facilities. Wood chips and pellets are also important export

products. Changes in the energy-producing wood export since

1997 are explained. Other kinds of biomass that can be used for

heat and electricity production are various agricultural and food

production residues, livestock breeding buy-products, sewage

sludge, combustible (organic) part of household and industrial

wastes, etc.

In the present paper, a variety of biomass forms used as the

energy sources are analysed. The characteristics of different

types of wood biomass and the variations in their parameters

are considered. The following determined parameters of

biomass are presented: the calorific value, ash content, bulk

density, melting point of ashes, sulphur and chlorine content,

and others. The biomass energy potential calculated for

different regions of Latvia (the data of 2007) is discussed. On

the map of Latvia the amount and energy potential of

agricultural straw and other biomass for different regions are

shown.

Some recommendations elaborated how to improve biomass

utilization for heat and electricity production.