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Differences Between Biomass Briquettes and Coal Briquettes, Which Is More Environmentally Friendly?

IT DMK Cargo
Oct 8
2 min read

In recent years, the use of briquettes has become increasingly popular as an alternative fuel to firewood and LPG gas. However, not all briquettes are the same. There are two types most commonly used, namely biomass briquettes and coal briquettes. Both serve a similar purpose but differ in raw materials, environmental impact, and energy efficiency.

Raw Materials and Production Process

Biomass briquettes are made from organic materials such as rice husks, sawdust, coconut shells, or agricultural waste. All these materials are compacted through a process without the use of harmful chemicals. Because they are made from natural and renewable sources, biomass briquettes are often considered more environmentally friendly.

Meanwhile, coal briquettes are made from fine coal powder that is compacted using specific binders. Coal is a fossil energy source that cannot be renewed and produces higher carbon emissions.

Environmental Impact

In terms of emissions, biomass briquettes have the upper hand. Their combustion produces carbon-neutral emissions because the carbon released is balanced with the amount absorbed by plants during their growth.

In contrast, burning coal briquettes releases a higher level of greenhouse gases, including carbon dioxide and sulfur dioxide. When used over the long term, these emissions contribute to air pollution and climate change.

Energy Efficiency and Cost

Coal briquettes indeed have a higher calorific value, ranging from around 5000 to 7000 kilocalories per kilogram. This means they produce more heat. However, they also leave behind more ash residue.

Biomass briquettes have a lower calorific value, around 3000 to 5000 kilocalories per kilogram. Even so, they are more affordable because their raw materials are easy to obtain and can be produced locally.

Future Energy Trends

As awareness of green energy continues to grow, the use of biomass briquettes is also increasing. The Indonesian government, through the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources (ESDM), has even encouraged both the public and industries to shift toward renewable energy sources, including biomass.

According to a report from the International Energy Agency (IEA), biomass has the potential to replace a significant portion of household energy needs in developing countries if managed properly.

From various aspects, biomass briquettes are considered more sustainable than coal briquettes. Besides being environmentally friendly, they are also more affordable and support clean energy transition programs.