Possibility of Small-Scale Biomass Power Generation Project by Satoyama Forest Resource Survey

Abstract

The possibility of small-scale biomass power generation project on satoyama fueled by forest thinning was examined. First, we calculated the income and expenditure for a smallscale biomass power generation project, and set targets for the quantity and price of the wood chips such that the project could continue. Next, we estimated the volume of forest resources and wood chips in the target research area via aerial photos. The results of the forest resource survey, the progress towards broad-leaved forests from coniferous forests and grasslands was observed. It was confirmed that the current profitability of a small-scale biomass power generation project would be low. However, factors such as improvements in wood chip production methods, and the expansion of project scope, were confirmed to make commercialization feasible.