Wood pellets as a sustainable energy alternative in Portugal

• Published in: Renewable energy 2016-01, Vol.85, p.1011-1016
• Main Authors: Nunes, L.J.R., Matias, J.C.O., Catalão, J.P.S.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Alternative energy; Energy costs; Wood pellets; Wood pellets market
• ISSN: 0960-1481; 1879-0682
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2015.07.065

The pellet market in Portugal is a developing market where the main producers of wood pellets try to convince the small-scale buyer that wood pellets are a good alternative as a fuel because energy from them is cost-effective in long-term use. For this work, data about production, production capacity and consumption in Portugal were collected. Consumption levels are low since the majority of sales are exports. The different points of pellet production in Portugal have been located, and a price analysis has been made. To obtain data on the production capacity of the plants and get referrals from the market, the database Bioraise has been used in order to complement the information raised through prospecting and inquiries. Although it is noted that the pellet industry in Portugal is a sector in the initial stage of its development, the potential for growth is high, since internal consumption is low compared to the level of exports to other countries in which the pellet industry is booming. We conclude that the pellet industry is an important alternative in the Portuguese energy market due to the competitive price of this fuel compared to traditional fuels. •Wood pellets are a good alternative as a fuel because energy from them is cost-effective in long-term use.•Data about production, production capacity and consumption in Portugal were collected.•The different points of pellet production in Portugal have been located, and a price analysis was made.•The pellet industry is an important alternative in the Portuguese energy market.•Wood pellets represent a stable and cheap energy alternative.