Perennial Grass Species for Bioenergy Production: The State of the Art in Mechanical Harvesting

Future European strategies to reduce dependence on foreign markets for energy supply and production will rely the further exploitation of primary sector. Lignocellulosic feedstock bioenergy is a valuable candidate, dedicated crops such as giant reed (Arundo donax L.), miscanthus (Miscanthus × giganteus), canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) have been proven be suitable extensive cultivation marginal lands. The present review aimed at providing comprehensive picture mechanical available harvesting reed, miscanthus, grass, that are possible upscaling their chain. Since most impactful phase lignocellulosic chain in crops, associated performance costs were taken into account order provide concrete observations suggestions future implementation. findings highlighted investigated species sufficient technology readiness level concerning cultivation. All could indeed harvested with existing machinery, mostly derived from context haymaking, without compromising work productivity.