Japan-supported biomass energy projects technology readiness and distribution in the emerging Southeast Asian countries: Exercising the J-Tra methodology and GIS

Abstract

Biomass is a promising energy resource for the Southeast Asian countries. There are currently many biomass related technology development projects taking place in the emerging countries of the region (Thailand, Indonesia, Viet Nam, Myanmar, Philippines, Malaysia, Cambodia, Laos). In this paper, we investigate the critical characteristics of Japan-supported biomass energy technology development projects in those countries, specifically on; technology type, biomass feedstock type, the technology's readiness, and the geographical location. Information about the projects was collected from major Japanese organizations and Japanese private companies' websites. The results highlight the trends and direction of biomass energy conversion technology development in the region. Among them are the following: 1) Biorefinery is the most popular technology used in the development projects mainly in Thailand, 2) Boiler, Turbine, Generator (BTG) projects exist in all countries discussed in this study, 3) Agricultural residue from rice plantation and Oil Palm are the two most popular type of feedstocks used in the projects, 4) Most of the projects’ are still in “feasibility study” and “pilot demonstration” readiness levels.