+ 04.08.2010 + Total 2009 biofuel use amounted to 12.1 Mtoe (see Table 2 on pdf page 5), which represents a 4% share across all road transport fuels estimated at 300 Mtoe in 2009. The European Union needs to raise biofuel consumption by 6 Mtoe in 2010 if it is to reach the Directive's goal (5.75%).

According to the EurObserv'ER estimates, the slowdown in the growth of European biofuel consumption deepened again. Biofuel use in transport grew by 18.7% between 2008 and 2009, against 30.3% between 2007 and 2008 and 41.8% between 2006 and 2007. (see Graph 1 on pdf page 7)

In contrast to previous years, growth in bioethanol fuel consumption was steadier (up 31.9% between 2008 and 2009) than that of biodiesel (up 19.9% between 2008 and 2009). The collapse of vegetable oil consumption continued (down 72.3%), which contrasts with the consumption of biogas fuel that has the same properties as natural gas, and is still growing in Sweden (up 23.2%).

In Europe most biofuel used in transport is essentially sourced from biodiesel which accounts for 79.5% of the total energy content, as opposed to 19.3% for bioethanol. The vegetable oil fuel share is becoming negligible (0.9%) and for the moment the biogas fuel share is specific to one country: Sweden (0.3%). (see Graph 2 on pdf page 8)

Besides the 2009 realisations per EU Member State other subjects that are discussed in the new barometer are:

• Selected country reviews
• Renewable energy policies
• Industry overview
• Projection to the year 2010

The release of the next Barometer is expected in November 2010. This Barometer will be focusing on solid biomass, biogas and renewable municipal solid waste.

EurObserv'ER 2010