We find that the potential for sustainable bioenergy from residues and waste, complementary fellings, energy crops and algae oil in 2050 is 340聽EJ聽a鈭? of primary energy. This potential is then compared to the demand for biomass-based energy in the demand scenario related to this study, the Ecofys Energy Scenario . This scenario, after applying energy efficiency and non-bioenergy renewable options, requires a significant contribution of bioenergy to meet the remaining energy demand; 185聽EJ聽a鈭? of the 340聽EJ聽a鈭? potential supply. For land use for energy crops, we find that a maximum of 2,500,000聽km2 is needed of a 6,730,000聽km2 sustainable potential. For greenhouse gas emissions from bioenergy, a 75%-85%reduction can be achieved compared to fossil references.
We conclude that bioenergy can meet residual demand in the Ecofys Energy Scenario sustainably with low associated greenhouse gas emissions. It thus contributes to its achievement of a 95%renewable energy system globally by 2050.