Development and Deployment of Willow Biomass Crops

Interest in shrub willows as a perennial energy crop for production of biomass has developed in Europe and North America over the past few decades because of concerns with energy security, environmental impact associated with the current mix of fossil fuels, and economic challenges in rural areas. When deployed properly across the landscape, willow biomass crops can provide multiple benefits, while providing a locally grown source of biomass that can be converted into a range of bioenergy, biofuels and bioproducts. This chapter discusses shrub willow characteristics, and production systems and economics for willow biomass crops. It also discusses environmental and rural development benefits of willow biomass crops, and commercial development of these crops.