In 2024, global pellet production remained stable at around 48.3 million tons, while global consumption exceeded 45 million tons for the first time. Despite circumstances such as reduced heating demand due to climate change, Europe remains by far the world's leading producer and consumer of wood pellets.
The report underlines the crucial role of public support in moving towards a fossil fuel-free heating system in Europe.
According to Jérémie Geelen, Director of Market Analysis at Bioenergy Europe “The data confirms that where there is political will and clear financial support for the installation of new equipment, renewable heating thrives.” “Consumers need stability. Without consistent support schemes, even established markets can suffer.”, he adds.
The evolution of sales of stoves and boilers in Europe in 2024 highlights large differences depending on political commitment. Austria This is a prime example: after a sharp decline in 2023, the introduction of new federal and regional aid to replace fossil fuel systems led to a rapid recovery in the biomass equipment market.
In Poland, The “Clean Air” program has been key to encouraging the replacement of obsolete boilers, many of them coal-fired, with renewable alternatives such as biomass.
In contrast, in Germany, In the main European market for pellet equipment, sales of renewable thermal systems fell sharply again for the second year in a row, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding the country's energy transition policies. France has experienced a similar situation, with continuous regulatory changes that have undermined consumer confidence.
Even so, it is estimated that more than 5.6 million European households They use wood pellets for heating, in addition to many others who use other biomass such as firewood, wood chips, briquettes or biogas.
Certification reinforces confidence in a growing market
Pellet quality also plays a role in the energy transition, improving equipment efficiency and reducing emissions. The ENplus® certification system is establishing itself as a global benchmark for pellet quality assurance.
In 2024, the 75% of the pellet for heating in Europe It was ENplus®, and certified distributors sold a record number of 7.5 million tons, consolidating the system's global leadership. Despite market challenges, the number of certified producers and marketers rose to 686 and 608, respectively.
Bioenergy Europe is calling on European policymakers to ensure predictability and support the expansion of renewable heating. Pellet systems are a proven and affordable solution for achieving the goals of the European Heating and Cooling Strategy.
“Pellet continues to prove itself as a safe, affordable, and renewable option for millions of European households. In Spain, pellet production reached 520,000 tons in 2024, and over 90% of pellets for domestic use are ENplus® certified. It is essential that national policies guarantee a stable environment so that more citizens can benefit from this renewable energy source.” points out Pablo Rodero, president of the European Pellet Council and head of certification at AVEBIOM.