Spain Turns Olive Seeds into Sustainable Biomass Fuel

Date:12 Sep 2024

Country: Spain

Application

• Energy Generation: Olive stones are used as biomass to heat homes, power olive oil production, and fuel industrial boilers.
• Sustainable Biofuel: Olive pits are being converted into biofuels to support decarbonization in sectors like aviation and energy.

Description

In Spain, farmers are utilizing olive stones as biomass to power homes, industries, and even olive oil production. This sustainable energy source is helping to decarbonize sectors like aviation and reduce reliance on traditional fuels. The olive oil industry, particularly in Andalusia, has renewed interest in refining pits due to rising energy costs and decarbonization goals. Spain produces around 400,000 tons of olive pits annually, contributing to the growing biofuel market.

 

 

Pathway Description:

Olive stones are collected as a byproduct of olive oil production, stored, and dried for use as biomass fuel. The dried stones are burned in boilers to generate heat for heating systems and hot water in homes and mills. Some of the stones are also processed into biofuels for industrial applications, including aviation. This process helps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and supports sustainability efforts.