La bioénergie forestière pour lutter contre les changements climatiques: quelles implications dans la transition énergétique du Québec (Canada)?

Abstract

In order to meet climate targets, the Quebec government plans to increase forest bioenergy production to support the energy transition. The use of forest biomass for energy purposes presents, however, particular social, economic and environmental challenges. During a collaborative workshop held in winter 2022, professionals and stakeholders from Quebec discussed the sustainable development of forest bioenergy in the province. The objective of this paper is to identify the biomass sources, practices and conversion pathways that are perceived to be conducive to the success of this emerging sector. The discussions revealed that it is difficult to envision a single business model for the deployment of forest bioen-ergy projects, as it is embedded in the activities of different sectors. Forest biomass availability, the cost of supply and pro-duction, the value and life cycle of the products generated, and the behaviour of stakeholders are key factors in defining the nature and scope of forest bioenergy projects. The success of such projects requires improved coherence along the value chain and their acceptability by communities.