Bioenergy Europe has published its views on the role of bioenergy in the upcoming EU’s Clean Industrial Deal. The European bioenergy trade body highlights how bioenergy can drive industrial decarbonization, boost EU competitiveness, and enhance energy security as part of the EU’s transition to a net-zero economy by 2050.
As emphasized by the European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen in her address at the European Parliament Plenary on the new College of Commissioners and its program on November 27, 2024, the Clean Industrial Deal should support and create the right conditions for companies to reach EU climate and energy goals.
The European Bioenergy sector has the potential to contribute to strengthening the EU’s industrial competitiveness while decarbonizing its economy.
The Clean Industrial Deal is a pivotal moment for Europe to align industrial policy with its climate ambitions. Bioenergy, as a cost-effective and scalable solution, can significantly lower energy costs, drive decarbonization in hard-to-abate sectors, and bolster European industrial competitiveness, said Jean-Marc Jossart, Secretary General at Bioenergy Europe.
Jossart added that given Europe’s technology dependence on China, “the EU should take advantage of its pioneering bioenergy technologies and envision an ambitious export strategy all over the world.”
Four recommendations
In its policy paper released on December 11, 2024, Bioenergy Europe outlines four key solutions to position sustainable bioenergy as a cornerstone of the Clean Industrial Deal.
These are the following:
- Support bioenergy solutions for industrial decarbonization – Transitioning energy-intensive industries from fossil fuels to bio-based solutions is imperative. Bioenergy is approximately 2.4 times cheaper than other renewable alternatives and is uniquely suited to decarbonize processes that cannot be electrified. Legislative and economic measures must prioritize the adoption of renewable technologies and bio-based carbon removal solutions such as Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) and biochar.
- Develop a bioenergy export strategy – Europe’s leadership in bioenergy technologies represents a strategic opportunity. By promoting the export of bioenergy innovations and scaling up bio-based carbon removal solutions, the EU can create up to 1.5 million jobs by 2050 and cement its position in the global renewable energy market. Bioenergy Europe urges the Commission to develop a comprehensive export strategy to leverage this potential.
- Lower energy costs for companies and households – Bioenergy-based heating solutions can significantly reduce energy costs while supporting the defossilization of the EU heating sector. A targeted program to replace outdated heating systems with efficient bioheat technologies will enhance energy efficiency, reduce emissions, and address energy poverty in residential and district heating.
- Ensure regulatory stability – A stable regulatory framework is essential to attract investments and promote innovation in renewable technologies. Bioenergy Europe calls for the simplification of regulations under REDIII and urges policymakers to avoid retroactive changes that could disrupt investments and market trust.
According to Bioenergy Europe, the Clean Industrial Deal is an opportunity to strengthen the EU’s industrial base while advancing its climate and energy goals.
The bioenergy industry can support the EU in confirming itself as a global leader in sustainable energy solutions.
