The biomass based energy conversion: An example of MarkAl application for the energy planning

Energy saving technologies based on the use of electricity and renewable energy sources are in many cases a viable alternative to heat production from fuels. A wider use of electricity-based technologies is supported by the continuous increase of utility plant efficiency up to 60% combined with climate change awareness. A wider use of biomass-based technologies is supported by the pressure on the reduction of both CO₂ emission and fossil fuel consumption. The paper reports the results of research in the field of the MarkA1 application to the energy planning of an urban and industrial area located in Europe by using optimum techniques in the management of complex systems, such as cogeneration combined with renewable energy sources and fuel cells in non industrial sectors by using biomass as energy sources in alternative to fossil fuels. Research is going on aiming to extend the MarkA1 application to different combinations of technologies in industry and buildings.