A conceptual framework for the introduction of energy crops

• Published in: Renewable energy 2014-12, Vol.72, p.29-38
• Main Authors: Mola-Yudego, Blas, Dimitriou, Ioannis, Gonzalez-Garcia, Sara, Gritten, David, Aronsson, Pär
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Agricultural Science; Applied sciences; Bioenergy; Biomass; Energy; Energy policy; Exact sciences and technology; Forest Science; Jordbruksvetenskap; Natural energy; Plantations; Short rotation forestry; Skogsvetenskap; Willow
• ISSN: 0960-1481; 1879-0682
• DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2014.06.012

There is currently limited experience on the introduction of new commercial crops as a source of raw material for energy uses. The present paper analyses the introduction and development of commercial willow plantations in Sweden during the period 1986–2005. A general framework is constructed in order to identify all the factors and interrelations that can describe the introduction and expansion of willow as an alternative crop for the production of raw material for energy. The factors are identified and analysed based on a broad database of information from commercial plantations, covering almost all existing plantations, and on documents referring to existing academic literature or official reports. The analysis provides with lessons that can be useful for the introduction of new energy crops in other countries and shows the possible contradictions in policy applications. The analysis confirms that stable policies and long-term contracts reduce the uncertainties associated with the cultivation. The results of this study can be of value for other countries aiming at the introduction of new crops for bioenergy. •The paper analyses the introduction of willow plantations for energy in Sweden in 1986–2005.•A framework is presented to identify factors and its inter-relations.•The framework is based on a large pool of data of growers and plantations.•Stable policies and long-term contracts are key elements for success.