Designing biomass crops with improved calorific content and attributes for burning: A uk perspective

Abstract

Recently, there has been tremendous world-wide interest in dedicated energy crops as a source of renewable carbon neutral feed-stocks for the production of energy and heat by combustion processes. However, in order for the potential benefits of decreased greenhouse gas emissions and improved fuel security to be delivered, it will be essential for the cultivation of these crops to be achieved in a sustainable manner. In this chapter we identify those species with greatest potential for cultivation in the UK, explore the effect of biomass chemical composition on combustion efficiency and, with particular focus on Miscanthus species, discuss how these crops may be best improved by strategies including genetic engineering, gene discovery and breeding strategies.