Biomass as the most popular renewable energy source in EU

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this research is to assess and discuss the diversity of European Union countries due to renewable energy production from biomass and changes over time. Design/Methodology/Approach: The diversity of EU countries was examined using the cluster analysis. Analysis was conducted based on data from Eurostat. The time scope covers the years 2007 and 2016. The analysis includes four diagnostic features; the share of solid biofuels in total biomass and renewable waste production, the share of biogas in total biomass and renewable waste production, the share of renewable municipal waste in total biomass and renewable waste production and the share of liquid biofuels in total biomass and renewable waste production. Findings: The analysis shows that the European Union countries are characterized by diversity in the use of individual biomass sources as an energy source. The countries of the central part of Europe mainly use biomass from municipal waste. A fairly large share was also recorded in the use of biogas and liquid biofuels. The countries of northern and partly eastern Europe mainly use solid biomass. In contrast, countries in partly Eastern and Western Europe mainly use solid and liquid biomass. Practical Implications: The results refer to the assumptions of energy policy. Originality/Value: The study is related to the EU current issues energy policy and circular economy. The results can be a contribution to the analysis of the circular economy implementation.