University of Vaasa - Vaasan yliopisto

Abstract
SUPPLY CHAIN ISSUES OF BIO-ENERGY
PRODUCTION: A Literature Review
Stefan Gold (corresponding author)
Department of International Management,
University of Kassel, Witzenhausen, Germany
Stefan Seuring
Department of International Management,
University of Kassel, Witzenhausen, Germany
574
This paper presents a literature review of selected articles published in English-speaking peerreviewed
journals, which cover the interface of bio-energy production and issues of logistics and
supply chain management. The articles are assessed according to (1) topic and research method,
as well as (2) feed stock, technology, energy end application, and part of supply chain under
examination. Moreover, issues and challenges in the context of bio-energy chains have been
classified into (1) transport, handling, pre-treatment, storage, (2) logistics in general, (3) system
design, (4) supply security, and (5) purposes of bio-energy supply chains apart from energy
production. Although biomass supply chains are manifold in terms of size, design, and
functioning, most relevant issues regarding logistics and supply chain management of bio-energy
production are identified. The findings are discussed against the backdrop of bio-energy as
sustainable renewable energy option.
Keywords: Biomass, bio-energy, supply chain management, logistics, literature review.
Introduction
Declining stocks of fossil fuels have entailed the need to search more intensely for
renewable energy options in recent years. Following the concept of sustainable
development as defined by the Brundtland Commission, energy systems should be
ecologically, socially, and economically sustainable, so that the present generation is
able to meet its energy needs without compromising the ability of future generations
to meet their energy and other needs (WCED 1987). Thereby bio-energy could play a
substantial role, since it helps preserve non-renewable resources, improves energy
security, mitigates the greenhouse effect, and promotes regional development
(McComick & Kåberger, 2007; Ecosense 2007) as well as rural diversification. On a
community level, bio-energy may contribute to job creation and income
improvement (Elghali et al. 2007). In contrast to current solar and wind energy
technologies, bio-energy offers an “energy inventory”, which may be used for
optimising the power grid by providing peak load services. The sustainable technical
potential of bio-energy is substantial: The German Advisory Council on Global