Mapping of biomass residues for potential energy generation from the winegrowing sector in the provinces of Palermo and Trapani

Abstract

This paper is based on results obtained during the project Vienergy (Interreg Italia-Malta programme 2007-2013) and contains data on the potential energy generation of biomass residues following pruning from vineyards located within the provinces of Trapani and Palermo. Analysis of the energy potential, following microgasification tests and heat production related to the biomass, included a preliminary mapping of vineyards in the area and an assessment of the total biomass available. Vineyard mapping was carried out using remote-sensing technologies: images were acquired and analysed using Landsat satellite; spectroradiometric calibration then took place using various targets obtained from UAVs equipped with multispectral imaging cameras. Potential energy data together with the estimated available biomass quantities from the two areas allowed us to formulate an estimate of energy savings obtainable based on energy needs of the local population. Data retrieval on the grape-growing areas, the biomass and potential energy generation also enabled us to advance the GIS system in the study areas.