The current potential of low-carbon economy and biomass-based electricity in Cuba. The case of sugarcane, energy cane and marabu (Dichrostachys cinerea) as biomass sources

• Published in: Journal of cleaner production Vol. 172; pp. 2108 - 2122
• Main Authors: Sagastume Gutiérrez, Alexis, Cabello Eras, Juan J., Huisingh, Donald, Vandecasteele, Carlo, Hens, Luc
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 20.01.2018
• Subjects: Bioelectricity; Bioenergy; Biomass; Low-carbon; Neutral-carbon; Sugar industry; Bioenergy; Sugar industry; Biomass; Bioelectricity; Low-carbon; Neutral-carbon
• ISSN: 0959-6526; 1879-1786
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2017.11.209

The emissions of greenhouse gases stand as a major threat of today. Moving towards CO2 neutral or low-carbon economies is a need to achieve sustainable development. This study assesses the potentialities to move Cuba towards a low-carbon economy by replacing the current electricity mix, dominated by fossil fuel based electricity generation, with biomass-based electricity generation. Because of their significant potential, the study focusses on the use of sugarcane, energy cane and marabu (dichrostachys cinerea) based biomass. Results show that biomass can support over 97% of the electricity generation planned by the Cuban government for 2030. Replacing fossil fuel based electricity with biomass-based electricity today potentially reduces up to 81% of the greenhouse gas emissions as compared to the emission levels of 2012. Implementing biomass-based electricity generation in Cuba can also reduce the costs of electricity generation by 1–30% (depending on the market price of fossil fuels). •Government policy foresees a 24% of renewable-based electricity for 2030.•Biomass can support from 48 to 99% of the Cuban electricity demand in 2030.•Biomass account for the main renewable energy source in Cuba.•Biomass based electricity can reduce up to 81% of the 2012 GHG emission level.