Perception of energy production from biomass: A Mexican population pilot survey

Abstract

The term biomass may be used in different contexts, one of which is related to energy production from biomass sources, especially wastes. Mexico is considered a country with a high potential to exploit renewable energy sources, particularly biomass. Still, according to studies about energy consumption in Mexican homes, biomass is one of the least used, compared to conventional sources or even other renewable sources. It is not understood how aware the countrys population is of the potential of biomass, or if they recognize it as a renewable energy source. This study presents a pilot survey performed on a small adult population that has or is receiving professional education and designed to identify how biomass is perceived among other renewable energy sources and whether the population considers it relevant to inform themselves about this topic. The results obtained indicate that people recognize mostly wind (99%) and solar (88%) power, but when it comes to biomass only 36% of the population knows energy may be obtained from it. When it comes to its use only 5.8% of the population indicates using it. Besides understanding the populations perception these results may help to develop more educational policies about renewable energies by universities.