in 1986, dr. larry abrahamson and dr. ed white of the suny college of environmental science and forestry planted a half-acre experimental plot of shrub willow. it was the first academic investigation of willow biomass as a potential renewable energy source in the united states.<\/p>\n
over the past three decades, esf\u2019s willow project has picked up a tremendous amount of steam. its numerous collaborators range from the u.s. department of agriculture to academic institutions to local businesses, and its research scope covers everything from science to economics.<\/p>\n
if all goes well, shrub willow could become a key part of rural landscapes and economies, as well as a source of heat, and, looking further ahead, biofuels \u2013 all while being completely carbon neutral.<\/p>\n
why willow?<\/strong><\/p>\n shrub willow is a short rotation woody crop used to produce biomass. on a basic level, the plant stores energy from the sun. after harvest, this energy is harnessed by simple burning or conversion into other types of fuel. the fact that it\u2019s a \u201cshort rotation\u201d crop means that it can be harvested every three years or so, and can re-sprout from the roots upward of seven times before it requires replanting.<\/p>\n according to this informational video on the project\u2019s website<\/a>, one acre of a typical harvest contains enough energy to power the average home for a year: <\/p>\n