The European energy transition will become significantly more difficult and expensive if biomass is not given a full role. This is evident from a recent study by Chalmers University of Technology, published on 22 April 2025. Researchers show that excluding biomass from the energy mix could lead to an annual cost increase of 169 billion euros. The consequences are comparable to the loss of wind energy from the European energy system.
The study led by Markus Millinger emphasises that biomass is much more than just an energy source. Biomass is already widely used in Europe for electricity generation, district heating and industrial processes, but is also playing an increasingly important role in the production of biofuels and bio-based raw materials. According to the researchers, the strength of biomass is its flexibility: depending on the availability of raw materials and infrastructure, biomass can be used strategically in sectors where other renewable energy sources are less suitable.
Negative emissions make biomass extra valuable
A key point to note is that biomass not only provides energy, but also contributes to negative emissions through technologies such as Bio-Energy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS). This involves capturing the CO₂ released during biomass combustion and storing it in underground reservoirs. This process has a net effect of removing CO₂ from the atmosphere and is essential to offsetting remaining emissions in sectors such as agriculture and heavy industry, the study says.
Higher costs and greater risks without biomass
If biomass is omitted from the energy transition plans, the costs would increase drastically because other alternatives – such as synthetic fuels, large-scale electrification or hydrogen – are much more expensive or technically less feasible. This would also risk leaving Europe dependent on fossil fuels for longer in the transition phase, which would run counter to the objectives of the European Green Deal.
Targeted efforts and sustainable policy are necessary
The researchers warn that the role of biomass should not be underestimated. However, they advocate for careful policy that limits the use of biomass to applications where climate effectiveness is greatest, and that ensures that biomass is produced sustainably. According to them, biomass should mainly be used in sectors where electrification is difficult, such as aviation, shipping and heavy industry.
Investing in biomass for a viable climate strategy
The report, published in the scientific journal Nature Energy, emphasises that biomass is an indispensable part of a cost-effective, feasible and climate-neutral future for Europe. According to the authors, investing in sustainable biomass chains is not only a necessity for achieving climate goals, but also a rational choice to keep costs manageable for citizens and businesses.
The full message can be read via Chalmers University: “Difficult and costly energy transition unless the EU invests in biomass”.
