BIOENERGY POTENTIAL OF ENERGY CROPS FOR THE PRODUCTION OF VARIOUS TYPES OF BIOFUELS TO OVERCOME THE DEFICIT OF ENERGY RESOURCES IN THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR

Abstract

The problem of energy resource shortage and its impact on the economy and ecology is one of the most acute in the modern world. The growth of the world population, urbanization and industrialization lead to a rapid increase in the demand for energy. The depletion of traditional energy sources, such as oil and gas, as well as their negative impact on the environment, prompt the search for alternative, renewable energy sources.
The article is dedicated to the urgent problem of the deficit of energy resources in Ukraine, especially under martial law, and explores the possibilities of using the bioenergy potential of energy crops for biofuel production. The authors conduct a detailed analysis of the conceptual and terminological apparatus with a focus on the definitions of "energy resources", "deficit", "bioenergy", and "bioenergy potential". The article examines the role of the agricultural sector in ensuring the country's energy security and independence through the cultivation of energy crops and biofuel production.
The study includes an analysis of the production of main agricultural crops in Ukraine for 2023 with a detailed review of gross harvest, yield, and sown areas.
The authors propose their own methodology for calculating the theoretical, technical, and economically feasible potential for producing bioethanol and biodiesel from various agricultural crops, taking into account the specifics of the agricultural sector of Ukraine. The calculations demonstrate a significant potential for biofuel production from cereals, corn, sugar beet, sunflower, and rapeseed.
The article emphasizes the need for state support for developing bioenergy in Ukraine, including financial incentives, tax benefits, and a favorable legislative environment. The importance of developing bioenergy for sustainable development and energy security of the country is emphasized.