Below, we briefly outline the differences and similarities between biomass vs biofuel vs bioenergy vs biogas.
We also provide a description of each one, and indicate how they relate to one another.
Biomass
Biomass is organic material, and is considered to be ‘renewable’
It mainly comes from different types of plants, and also algae (although some reports indicate it can also come from animals)
Biomass is the material that all three of biofuel, bioenergy and biogas are derived from
A range of ‘bioproducts’ (commodities) are also derived from biomass
We’ve provided more information about what biomass is, and examples of different types of biomass in this guide
Biofuel
Biofuels are fuels derived from biomass
Biomass goes through a conversion process to become a refined biofuel product
Biofuels are commonly used for transportation in vehicles as fuel
Two common examples of biofuels are ethanol, and also biodiesel
We’ve provided more information about biofuels like ethanol and biodiesel in this guide
Bioenergy (Biopower)
Bioenergy is also referred to as biopower
It is energy that is derived from biomass – the energy gets stored in biomass from the process of photosynthesis
There’s multiple ways to release the energy contained in bioenergy
Energy generation from biomass can produce heat, or electricity
We’ve provided more information about what bioenergy can be used for, and the methods of power generation in this guide
Biogas
Biogas is gas (mainly methane and carbon dixoide) captured from the anaerobic digestion of organic waste and organic matter
The gas is an energy source which can be used for heat or electricity (for use in engines, microturbines, and fuel cells)
But, there’s also liquid and solid components (called digestate) produced from the break down of organic matter (separate to the gas released) that can be used as a soil amendment
We’ve provided more information about raw biogas, biomethane and also converted biogas in this guide
Biomass vs Bioenergy vs Biofuel vs Biogas – Similarities & Differences
Potential Similarities
The similarities are that all three of bioenergy, biofuel and biogas are derived from biomass material
They are all considered to be ‘renewable’ in this regard too
Potential Differences
The main differences are that:
– Biomass is the material used to produce the other three
i.e. these other three products are derived from biomass, and therefore rely on biomass
– Bioenergy, biofuels and biogas are all produced in different ways
As an example, biofuels require their own conversion process, whereas biogas is produced from anaerobic digestors
– Bioenergy, biofuels and biogas are each used across different industries and for different applications
As an example, biofuels might be used much more heavily for transportation and vehicles, whilst bioenergy might mainly be used for heat or electricity generation
More About Biomass, Biofuels, Bioenergy & Biogas
The guides below offer more insight on biomass and biomass derived energy technologies:
More Detailed Description
Biomass, Biofuels, Bioenergy, & Biogas: Definitions, Uses, Types, Examples, & More
Potential Pros & Cons
Potential Pros & Cons Of Bioenergy & Biofuels
Potential Pros & Cons Of Biogas
Potential Sustainability
Is Biomass, Biofuel, Bioenergy & Biogas Sustainable?
Comparison To Fossil Fuels
Fossil Fuels vs Biomass, Biofuels, Bioenergy & Biogas: Comparison, Differences, & Which Is Better?
Sources
1. Various ‘Better Meets Realty’ guides and associated sources
','' ); } ?>