Reuse of Forest Biomass: Cleaner and Local Energy

By project CEI BOOST

Published on 27 November 2024

Spain

Cataluña

About this good practice

The project addresses the challenge of wildfire prevention in the Tarragona Province, where 62% of the territory consists of forested areas, abandoned farmland, and shrubland prone to fires. Poor forest management has not only heightened wildfire risks but also left a valuable resource—biomass—underutilized. By integrating sustainable practices, the project aims to both reduce wildfire risks and contribute to environmental sustainability.
The initiative revolves around managing forests to clear overgrowth and reusing the resulting biomass as fuel for advanced district heating systems. These systems connect municipal buildings, such as schools and public offices, to a central biomass boiler, replacing diesel-based heating with clean, renewable energy. The technology employed ensures high efficiency and minimal emissions, significantly reducing CO₂ and other harmful pollutants compared to diesel boilers, and includes the use of sensors to advert when the boilers are empty. It exemplifies how innovative approaches can transform waste into a resource, fostering a more circular approach to energy use.
By relying on locally sourced biomass, the project reduces dependency on external energy imports, enhancing energy autonomy and resilience for the region. Moreover, residents benefit from safer forests, cleaner air, and the adoption of practices that align with broader climate goals, creating a model for integrating circularity and sustainability at the local level.

Expert opinion

This good practice highlights a successful territorial strategy in Tarragona Province, Spain, to mitigate wildfire risk and promote renewable energy through sustainable forest management and circular biomass use. With over 60% of the province covered by forest, abandoned farmland and shrubland—areas vulnerable to wildfires—the initiative reclaims underused biomass from forest overgrowth and transforms it into a clean energy source for district heating systems. These systems replace diesel in municipal buildings with high-efficiency biomass boilers, cutting CO₂ emissions by 545 tons annually and saving €170,000 in fuel costs. Supported by a total investment of €2.15 million and creating over 40 jobs per 10,000 tonnes of biomass managed, the project now operates in 30 municipalities. By boosting local energy autonomy, air quality, and forest safety, the initiative aligns with EU climate and energy priorities under the European Green Deal and the EU Forest Strategy. Its integrated, circular approach offers a replicable model for Mediterranean regions facing similar environmental and climate challenges.

Laura Varisco

Works at Interreg Europe Policy Learning Platform

Resources needed

The total project cost was €2.152.262, covering the setup of biomass boilers and district heating networks in nine municipalities. Each heating system required an average investment of €242.744. Managing 10.000 tons of biomass involved creating 11,5 direct jobs and 33 indirect jobs annually.

Evidence of success

This practice is highly successful, demonstrated by its expansion from 9 pilot municipalities to 30 across the territory. It has reduced CO₂ emissions by 545 tons annually, replaced diesel boilers with renewable energy systems, and saved €170,000 per year in fuel costs. Additionally, it created local jobs (11.5 direct and 33 indirect per 10,000 tons of biomass managed) and improved forest fire prevention through sustainable management, showcasing its environmental, economic, and social impact.

Potential for learning or transfer

This biomass energy project exemplifies a scalable and transferable model for regions experiencing expanding forest and shrub areas coupled with increased wildfire risks due to climate change-induced droughts and heatwaves. Notably, Mediterranean countries like Spain, Italy, and Greece face such challenges. The project's success hinges on advanced biomass boiler technology, efficient forest management, and robust stakeholder collaboration at municipal and regional levels. By utilizing local biomass resources, it enhances energy sustainability and resilience. However, regions lacking initial investment capacity or established biomass supply chains may encounter challenges. The expansion from 9 to 30 municipalities within Tarragona demonstrates its scalability. While no transfers outside the region have occurred yet, the project's proven success suggests significant replication potential in areas confronting similar environmental conditions.