Analysis of Czech Subsidies for Solid Biofuels

Abstract

Limits set by the Kyoto protocol brings Czech Republic billions of EUR from carbon emissions trading. The Ministry of Environment wants to invest the aforementioned revenue into energy savings and other projects like subsidies on the purchase of stoves for solid biofuels in regions with the most polluted air. Surprisingly, charcoal is not supported. Robust analysis of solid biofuels was made according to valid standards and routine chemical procedures. Data shows that there is no reason for charcoal to be rejected. It was confirmed that solid biofuels do not achieve the quality of black coal. The Czech Ministry of Environment argues that charcoal is not supported because of its high price per ton. The ecological criteria and price per energy should be also taken into account as analyzed in detail. Within the discussed ethical context, an improper form of support may affect market in a short term.

Keywords:

• Solid biofuels
• Standards
• Flue gases
• Charcoal