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2024 October 22

Bioenergy Growth demonstrates its Versatility and Critical Role across Sectors

World Bioenergy Association Publishes Global Bioenergy Statistics Report 2024 

 

The World Bioenergy Association (WBA) is excited to announce the release of its 11th Global Bioenergy Statistics Report.  The 2024 edition offers a detailed look at the latest trends and bioenergy’s critical role in the global renewable energy shift.  

 

Key Highlights from the 2024 Report:

  • In 2023, bioenergy electricity generation reached 697 TWh, making up 8% of all renewable electricity. Asia led this growth, contributing over half of the global output. 
  • Bioenergy remains vital in the heat sector, accounting for 96% of global renewable heat production. Europe produced nearly 80% of this, highlighting bioenergy's critical role in decarbonizing heat demand across industrial, commercial, and residential sectors, which make up half of total energy consumption
  • In 2023, biofuels supplied approximately 188 billion liters, representing 93% of renewable energy in transport. The U.S. and Brazil led ethanol production, while Indonesia and the EU dominated biodiesel
  • Global biopower capacity reached 150 GW in 2023, with Asia's capacity nearly tripling since 2014, driven by major investments in China and Japan
  • Global biogas demand hit 1,746 PJ in 2023, with Europe as the top producer, contributing nearly 50% of total output, and Germany alone providing close to 20%
  • The bioenergy sector supported 3.9 million jobs in 2023, with liquid biofuels accounting for 2.8 million. Global investment reached USD 9 billion in 2022. 

New Insights and Expanded Focus Areas: The 2024 edition offers more than just updated data—it also features a redesigned structure, including new sections on emerging technologies such as Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and Bioenergy with Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS), along with socio-economic updates on job creation and investment. This year’s version also integrates region and country-specific updates, illustrating real-world applications and impacts across continents. 

Alejandra Leon, Project Officer at WBA and main author of the WBA Global Bioenergy Statistics 2024, states, “In this year’s report, we’ve showcased bioenergy’s significant role in driving the energy transition across different sectors. To fully harness its potential, more ambitious policy frameworks are needed to allow bioenergy to maximize its impact and align more effectively with climate and energy targets” 

 

If you wish to join the WBA for further key insights on bioenergy developments, join us as a member. Contact us at info@worldbioenergy.org for further information.