Title:
Energy and Economic Analysis of a Double Cropping System for Biomass Production under Two Different Spanish Conditions
Author(s):
Aranzazu del Val, M., Maletta, E., Carrasco, J.E.
Document(s):
Paper
Abstract:
In order to achieve several synergies and improve economic efficiencies, food/feed double cropping systems have been extensively studied in traditional forage management and cerealoil crops. Nevertheless, double cropping energy systems have not been studied yet in Spain. Cropping, mowing, drying and baling a C3 annual grass or winter cereal under rainfed conditions (even with scarce irrigation support), and immediately direct sowing a C4 annual grass like sorghum using irrigation during the spring/summer season might improve water use efficiency, energy annual balance and gross economic margins for farmers. This research outlines double cropping systems and provides some preliminary useful evidence on the viability of this option in two locations (South and North) of Spain where different constraints and climate conditions may modulate management practices and results. Local information and preliminary results from field work allowed the scenario estimations for energy and economic assessments. It has been concluded that double crops for lignocellulosic biomass production should be studied in order to provide with a realistic option for Spanish farmers. Discussion on further research and feasibility of double crops is given.
Keywords:
economics, energy balance, energy crops, sorghum bicolor L. Moench, sustainability criteria, double cropping
Topic:
Plenaries
Subtopic:
Algae and energy crops: future research development
Event:
19th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
PC1.3
Pages:
20 - 26
ISBN-13:
978-88-89407-55-4
ISBN-10:
88-89407-55-7
Paper DOI:
10.5071/19thEUBCE2011-PC1.3
Price:
FREE
