Is Biomass Renewable? (And How It Works in Ontario’s Energy Mix)
Yes, biomass is classified as renewable energy, but the answer requires important context. Biomass consists of organic materials from plants and animals that can be replenished through natural growth cycles, distinguishing it from finite fossil fuels. When forests regrow, crops are replanted, and organic waste continues to be produced, the carbon released during biomass combustion can theoretically be reabsorbed, creating a closed loop.
However, the renewable label comes with critical conditions. Biomass only maintains its renewable status when harvested sustainably, meaning extraction rates don’t exceed regrowth rates and …