Energy Balance and Energy Use Efficiency of Annual Bioenergy Crops in Field Experiments in Southern Germany

The main objective of the cultivation energy crops is production renewable energy, substitution fossil resources, and a substantial contribution to supply. Thus, yield efficiency are most important criteria for assessment biomass-based chains. Maize crop with highest acreage in Germany because its high yields, but subject controversial debate possible detrimental effects on agro-ecosystems. This raises question as which systems could be used instead maize, order increase diversity lower environmental impacts. We examined inputs, outputs, alternative (combinations catch crops) compared maize four-year field experiments at three southern German sites by means process analyses. showed moderate inputs (11.3–13.2 GJ ha−1), ranging from 6.2 10.7 ha−1 7.6 24.8 ha−1. At all sites, had net output other (x¯ = 354–493 was surpassed combinations some (winter rye/maize: x¯ 389–538 ha−1). Although yielded higher outputs than no or combination outperformed regarding use (energy output/energy input: 32–45).