Energy from forest biomass in Ontario: Getting beyond the promise

The recent decline in Ontario's forest sector has resulted in the idling or closure of many mills, creating an opportunity for forest-derived bioenergy supported by the Ontario Green Energy and Green Economy Act. Combined heat and power production from forest biomass seems to provide an optimal balance between energy supplied and employment opportunities. This option could provide Ontario with 5.3% of electricity and 1.5% of heat energy needs. The province could sustainably support up to 12 60-MW installations. Five key recommendations are advanced, including the need for a bioenergy strategy within the province, options for developing funding for this sector, and the possibility of creating a bioenergy network using existing research assets within Ontario.