Social and economic possibilities for the energy utilization of fitomass in the valley of the river Hernád

Hernad Valley is one of the most underdeveloped areas of Hungary in social, infrastructural and economic aspects. At the same time, there are significant reserves regarding the bio-energy sector, energy investments and local raw material production. The biomass potential of the underdeveloped areas is tremendous (125,000 t/year, its energy value 25–28 M EUR/year), but quite difficult to exploit since the implementation of efficient energetic procedures is made very difficult by the indifference or resistance of the local population or the lack of capital (either on the part of the local authorities or the investors) which would be necessary to finance the improvements.