Biomass energy production forecast in the U.S. 2022-2050

Biomass energy production in the United States amounted to 4.84 quadrillion British thermal units (Btu) in 2022. Production is expected to slowly increase in the coming decades, reaching an estimated 5.19 quadrillion Btu by 2050. 

What is biomass?

Biomass is considered a renewable energy source, but is only carbon neutral if used sustainably. It is made up of plant and animal materials such as wood, food waste, and crops. This energy source can be used to produce heat and electricity, as well as biofuels, such as biodiesel, which are used to power vehicles. The United States is the leading producer of biofuels worldwide.

Power generation

Wood and wood-derived fuels make up the majority of biopower generation in the U.S., accounting for almost 70 percent in 2019. That same year, approximately 40 billion kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity was generated from wood. This accounted for just over five percent of net renewable electricity generation in the U.S.. In comparison, waste generated almost 19 billion kWh.