Energy Diversity through Renewable Energy Source (RES) - A Case Study of Biomass

Biomass has played a dominant role in the energy need of the continued world growing population. Its conversion from biomass to biogas in its production, have been a very promising means of producing an energy carrier from renewable resources and of achieving environmental benefits in multiples. As the population continue to grow coupled with the devastating effects of climate, efforts are being made by all and sundry at all level such as; scientists, researchers and policy makers in finding a lasting solution to the current predicament of climate change. As it is known fact now that the present demand for oil for biofuel production greatly exceeds the supply, this as a result has led to alternative sources of biomass being required. In achieving this, various biomasses have been considered for energy production, such as microalgae, yeast, grass and other renewable biomass substrates. Apart from the contribution biomass have made to sustainable development, it will also provide energy security for the growing population which currently stands at 7 billion. The resources availability and easily conversion process into the secondary energy carriers without much capital intensive makes this study a high profile research. Through this, it also aid in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by offsetting fossil fuel greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions when produced and used in a sustainable way Biomass as a renewable energy source is being discussed therein. Though there are large variations in biogas yields and composition of the gas among the raw materials considered. This is due to the variation in their compositions, digestion technologies and their digestion conditions that are applicable. Energy diversity through (RES) is herein therefore considered using biomass as a case study with particular emphasis on biogas/biofuel production. (C) 2014 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd.