Biofuels in the European Union - A vision for 2030 and beyond

May 2006

The expected growth of the biofuels market and the development of new transformation pathways make it timely to investigate new integrated refining schemes. The co-production of fuels, heat & power and co-products in integrated biorefineries will enhance the overall economy and competitiveness of biofuels. The biorefineries will be characterised by an efficient integration of various steps, from handling and processing of biomass, fermentation in bioreactors, chemical processing, to final recovery and purification of the product.
There is a need for a well-co-ordinated strategy for the production of biofuels. As an important step, the recent Commission communication “An EU Strategy for Biofuels”, supplemented by an Impact Assessment, describes seven policy axes which will regroup the measures the Commission will take to promote the production and use of biofuels.
This Vision Report proposes the establishment of a European Technology Platform for Biofuels that should provide and help implement a strategy for biofuels, particularly in the transport sector. By so doing, and by making best use of EU knowledge and scientific excellence, the Technology Platform will contribute to the establishment and growth of a world-class, cost competitive European industry.
The purpose of the present document is to address all relevant issues and provide a vision and outline strategy, with emphasis on RTD&D, to increase, markedly, biofuels production and use in the EU.
A good co-ordination between major European actors will be essential and would be facilitated by joint research and innovation programmes and joint operation of experimental facilities. The Biofuels Technology Platform will provide the scenarios and strategic guidance for decision makers to set up the proper policy framework, and to help define and implement the strategic research needed to achieve the vision.

By: European Commission - Biofuels Research Advisory Council

 
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