Study of the Potential of Forest Biomass for the Development of Wood Energy Sectors in Congo Brazzaville

Abstract

This research explores the potential of residual forest biomass in Congo-Brazzaville to support sustainable energy transition and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Despite the country’s heavy reliance on wood energy, which accounts for 85% of the energy mix, unsustainable practices threaten forest resources. Meanwhile, residues from logging and local wood processing, combined with the annual consumption of wood energy (firewood and charcoal), represent a significant amount of biomass which, if properly utilized, could generate greater social and environmental benefits than it currently does. A multidimensional approach was adopted to assess this potential. An interactive tool, the Biomass Cogeneration (CHP) Project Analysis System, was developed to model biomass flows, estimate energy production (thermal and electrical), and analyze environmental, economic, and logistical impacts. The results show that optimized utilization of forest residues could generate up to 591.7 MW of energy, representing 99% of the country’s installed energy capacity, while avoiding up to 240,005 tons of CO2 emissions annually. By promoting the use of biomass residues for cogeneration, this study supports national energy transition objectives and provides concrete solutions to integrate biomass as a strategic resource within Congo’s energy mix.