Biomass

Biomass, often in the form of wood pellets, is typically praised for its particularly favourable CO2 balance and the ease of storage. Biomass is a common "renewable" energy source relied upon by an increasing number of homes. Its use, however, does have its challenges and must be evaluated carefully. Making use of residual material such as left-over wood, straw, or other agricultural wastes can be sustainable. Using biomass in material recycling is even more effective: building a wooden house insulated with recycled paper is better than burning wood and paper to heat an uninsulated house. Competition with food production must, however, be avoided and it is important to note that, over human time scales, energy from biomass is also limited.

The UIZ Environmental Information Centre, a Certified Passive House Building forming part of the Natural Heritage Centre of Rügen, Germany, is supplied with local heat from an onsite pellet heating system. The 67 m wide and 32 m deep exhibition building hosts areas for catering, administration, and conferences.

See database entry for the UIZ Environmental Information Centre (Finalist of Passive House Award 2014)