An analysis of energy efficiency in the production of oilseed crops of the family Brassicaceae in Poland

This paper discusses the results of a three-year study into energy efficiency in the production of oilseed crops of the family Brassicaceae in north-eastern Poland. The energy inputs per ha of winter rapeseed were determined at 26.29 GJ, and were 1.8-fold higher (spring rapeseed, white mustard) to more than 2.3-fold higher (Indian mustard) in comparison with spring oilseed crops. The potential use of energy accumulated in the biomass of winter rapeseed (314.4 GJ ha−1) was as follows: 18% - effective energy for the petrochemical industry (oil), and 82% - energy for the generation of heat and electricity (22% - oil cake and 60% - straw). The energy value of the biomass of spring oilseed crops was determined in the range of 96.8-149.0 GJ ha−1. Significant differences in the utilization of biomass as a renewable source of energy were noted between spring oilseed crops and winter rapeseed. The highest energy efficiency ratio of seed production was noted in winter rapeseed (4.92). The energy efficiency ratio of seed production in spring oilseed crops was 39% to 62-75% lower as compared with winter rapeseed. The energy efficiency ratio of oilseed crops increased (8.61-11.96) when the energy potential of straw was taken into account.