An integrated sustainability model for a bioenergy system: Forest residues for electricity generation

In the U.S., bioenergy accounts for about 50% of the total renewable energy that is generated. Biomass may be used as a source of energy in a variety of ways. Using forest residues, which would normally be treated as waste, in a co-firing power plant application is one strategy for utilizing biomass. Every stage in the life cycle of using forest residues (e.g., growing biomass, harvesting biomass, transporting biomass, and co-firing with coal) has consequences in terms of the three dimensions of sustainability: economy, environment, and society. An integrated sustainability model (ISM) using system dynamics is developed for a bioenergy system to understand how changes in the bioenergy system influence environmental measures, economic development, and social impacts. Exogenous factors such as population growth, land-use change (LUC) patterns, and renewable energy policy are considered by the ISM. Predictions, such as soil carbon sequestration, greenhouse gas savings, monetary gain, and employment, can be made for a given temporal and spatial scale. Different policy scenarios varying the bioenergy share of the total electricity generation were identified and examined via the ISM. The results of the scenario analysis indicate that an increase in the bioenergy share of the total electricity generation will stimulate the bioenergy market for bio-power. Model projections provide comprehensive insights to key stakeholders and policy makers for supporting decision-making regarding bioenergy development.