A Literature Review on energy Consumption and Efficiency in Chipping Operations: IEA Bioenergy Task 43

Mohammad Reza Ghaffariyan; Mark Brown; Sajid Anwar; Raffaele Spinelli; Natascia Magagnotti; Dan Bergström; Robert Prinz; Bruno Gagnon; Hamed  Kouchaki

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A Literature Review on energy Consumption and Efficiency in Chipping Operations: IEA Bioenergy Task 43

Mohammad Reza Ghaffariyan, Mark Brown, Sajid Anwar, Raffaele Spinelli, Natascia Magagnotti, Dan Bergström, Robert Prinz, Bruno Gagnon and Hamed Kouchaki

IEA Bioenergy

2026

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Abstract

Chipping is a key operation in forest harvesting and bioenergy production. Understanding its energy use and efficiency is important for reducing costs and environmental impacts. From a financial management perspective, improving energy efficiency directly translates into lower operational and fuel-related costs. This review examines studies on fuel consumption, productivity, and emissions in chipping operations. The focus is on factors that influence energy use, such as chipper type, feedstock, terrain, and idling time. Data were compiled from journals, technical reports, manufacturer information, and international case studies. Chipping technologies are classified into mobile diesel, hybrid, and fully electric systems. The review highlights trends, trade-offs, and differences between systems. It also identifies gaps and inconsistencies in existing research. Finally, the paper discusses opportunities for improving efficiency and reducing emissions. These findings have implications not only for environmental performance but also for equipment investment decisions, cost structure optimisation, and long-term financial planning within forest operations. This review aims to guide future research and technology development in chipping operations.

Details

Title: A Literature Review on energy Consumption and Efficiency in Chipping Operations: IEA Bioenergy Task 43
Authors: Mohammad Reza Ghaffariyan - University of the Sunshine Coast
Mark Brown - University of the Sunshine Coast
Sajid Anwar - University of the Sunshine Coast
Raffaele Spinelli - Istituto per la Valorizzazione del Legno e delle Specie Arboree
Natascia Magagnotti - Istituto per la Valorizzazione del Legno e delle Specie Arboree
Dan Bergström - Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Robert Prinz - Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
Bruno Gagnon - Natural Resources Canada
Hamed Kouchaki - Natural Resources Canada
Publication details: 26 pages
Publisher: IEA Bioenergy
Date published: 2026
Organisation Unit: School of Business and Creative Industries; Indigenous and Transcultural Research Centre; Forest Industries Research Centre; School of Science, Technology and Engineering; Forest Research Institute
Language: English
Record Identifier: 991223826102621
Output Type: Report

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