Modelling of Biofuel Potential as a Tool for Public Managers

Abstract

Developing the efforts to implement sustainability policies in the energy field requires the most accurate information on the potential of available resources to properly implement concrete policies. Total net energy yields are interpreted in isolation, and studies providing information on yields of specific energy crops in net values are relatively rare. This article, therefore, provides a tool based on methodology combining Lifecycle Assessment (LCA) approaches and a model implemented in a stochastic Petri net environment to support managerial decision-making at a national and regional level. This tool allows for the comparison of net yields of more energy crops used in Central Europe. Additional crops can be added to the model. For the purpose of comparison, it is also possible to customize the model parameters for particular crops and the way they are cultivated. In comparison with oilseed rape, sugar beet, and wheat, the model shows best results in terms of net energy yields for sugar beet.