Groenier, James Scott; Kees, Gary ; Etter, Ted ; Lidstrom, Samantha ; Showers, Charles . 2010. The Promises and Pitfalls of Using Wood To Produce Electricity. 1073 2315P. Missoula, MT: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, National Technology and Development Program. 6 p.

Biomass gasification is partial combustion of a carbon-rich material to produce a synthesis gas. Synthesis gas is a renewable energy resource that may reduce the use of fossil fuels, cut energy costs, reduce production of greenhouse gasses, and provide a market for excess biomass. The Missoula Technology and Development Center has worked with the University of Montana College of Technology's energy technology program to demonstrate the promises and pitfalls of using a 25-kilowatt portable downdraft biomass gasification system to produce electricity.

Keywords: alternative energy, biogas, biomass, BioMax, Community Power Corporation, downdraft gasifiers, forest health, fossil fuels, greenhouse gasses, renewable energy, syngas, updraft gasifiers, wood gas

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