Work

A socio-technical transition framework for biomass torrefaction at the nexus of energy security and energy justice

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The global energy transition necessitates a critical re-evaluation of bioenergy’s role and moving beyond its conventional perception as a mere renewable source, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Biomass torrefaction, a mild thermochemical pretreatment, emerges as a pivotal technology that can fundamentally upgrade biomass into a high-quality solid biofuel. This review examines torrefaction as a socio-technical pathway that may contribute to multidimensional energy security while identifying potential energy justice implications across distributive, procedural, recognitional, and restorative dimensions within the bioenergy sector. This review systematically synthesizes recent advancements in torrefaction science, reactor design, and sustainability assessment. A novel analytical framework is developed to evaluate its role in enhancing energy security across the dimensions of availability, accessibility, affordability, and acceptability. Crucially, this review offers a systematic energy justice-oriented assessment of the torrefaction pathway, critically evaluating its implications across the distributive, procedural, recognitional, and restorative justice dimensions. The analysis reveals that the techno-economic promise of torrefaction is necessary but insufficient for its sustainable integration. Its success depends on active governance that is explicitly coupled with justice-oriented frameworks. This review concludes by proposing an integrated research and policy agenda that prioritizes co-benefit strategies, robust sustainability certification, and community-centric business models to steer the development of torrefaction towards a future of security, low carbon, and equity. Not applicable.

Source: Discover Energy

DOI: 10.1007/s43937-026-00209-5

Authors: Congyu Zhang, Bo Cao, Yuting Wang, Wei-Hsin Chen

Institutions: Northeast Agricultural University, Tunghai University, National Chin-Yi University of Technology, National Cheng Kung University

Language: English

Topic: Thermochemical Biomass Conversion Processes

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Industry, innovation and infrastructure, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,590