Biomass Energy 101
Note: The course can be attended as a stand-alone session but also provides an excellent way to introduce yourself to or refresh your knowledge of biomass energy before attending the " Bioenergy Markets Turkey " conference on the following days.
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Introduction
Course objectives
This concise, 1-day introduction to biomass energy provides an excellent training session both for those new to the biomass industry and those already within it; but in need of a refresher on its scientific and technology background, or a guide through the minefield of terminology. The day will explain, in clear, accessible language, the various processes and facilities that exist and are emerging to turn biomass feedstocks (including various wastes) into useful energy products such as liquid or gas fuels, heat and/or electrical power.
The material has been developed exclusively by Green Power Academy to provide a completely independent, unbiased and hype-free view of the various biomass industries. You will learn not only the scientific fundamentals but also the key commercial and economic aspects: both opportunities and barriers and problems yet to be overcome.
Level & Style
The course will explain key concepts and terminology in energy, power and technology, but assumes no prior technical knowledge. Indeed the course will be of particular value to those working in non-technical functions, who need to understand the technology fundamentals, their economics, development and market applications; but not the nuts-and-bolts of engineering or hands-on installation.
The course runs in a friendly, informal manner, encouraging discussions and questions to ensure that participants get the most out of their time. In order to better understand and illustrate the various topics, some simple calculations and other explanatory exercises may be incorporated.
About your trainer
Dr John Massey
is Green Power Academy's in-house renewable energy expert He combines a strong academic science background with over fifteen years experience researching and analysing technology industries and trends in the commercial sector (covering arange of technologies and markets including renewables, telecoms and electronics). He hasdelivered training globally, explaining the workings and financial / commercial context of rapidlyevolving technologies to senior, non-technical executives. He has also developed educational material for both live and distance learning courses.
Following a 1st Class Honours degree in Natural Sciences from the University of Cambridge, John gained a PhD in Earth Sciences and – in addition to his commercial experience - has undertaken further study in topics including Economics, Innovation and Sustainability.
About Green Power Academy
Green Power Academy exists to provide the quality, impartial, informative and enjoyable training needed to increase and distribute knowledge and skills to green energy industry professionals. Whether you are new to the industry, have recently changed jobs or simply wish to refresh your knowledge, our training should become a key part of your personal or company professional development programme.
“Excellent Tutor”
“Comprehensive overview in a short period of time”
Agenda Details
Defining “Biomass”
- Biomass as fuel, including variations in energy contents and sources.
- Calculating the energy potential (and limits) of biomass.
- Types of feedstock (first, second, third and subsequent generations).
- Waste as fuel: the different sources, types and challenges in usage.
- Biomass around the world: market review, including examples of activities and trends in specific markets.
Biomass Processes and Energy Pathways
- Pathways for bioethanol and biodiesel.
- Pathways for gaseous fuels and power production.
- Scientific basics of energy conversion processes, including efficiencies.
- Navigating the maze of terminology: esterification, pyrolysis, anaerobic digestion, gasification, FT synthesis, W2E, GTL and more,
Biomass Conversion Technologies and Facilities
- The basics of biomass conversion technologies and supply chains.
- Storage, transport and pre-processing.
- Conversion: fermenters, combustors, boilers, gasifiers etc.
- Processing and distribution, or further product processes.
- Technology evolution.
- Biorefineries and multi-product facilities, including CHP
Economic and Competitive issues for Biomass Energy
- Land use and cultivation (including the fuel vs. food debate)
- Economic and other pros and cons of biomass as an energy and/or power fuel (as compared to its competitors)
- Policy and market interventions (subsidies, credits, carbon markets etc.)
- Bioenergy and existing energy infrastructures, such as the power grid and markets (supply and demand)
- Levelised electricity cost as a method for comparing power technologies: how it is calculated and which factors affect it.
Approximate Timing
Course begins: 09:00
Course ends: 16:30
(NB. timings are approximate and include lunch plus morning and afternoon refreshment breaks)