In the Eye of the Storm: Harvesting Tree Stumps and the Energy Transition

Résumé 0

Since 2009 wood stumps are considered as one of the recognized sources of biomass to be used in the process of national energy transition in France. So far, stump harvesting has only been implemented in the Landes area in the southwestern part of the country. The aim of this paper is to identify the mechanisms underpinning this innovation. For this we used an analytical framework inspired by Science and Technology Studies. We show how the local pulp and paper industry has ensured the safety of its own supply agendas by promoting adjustments to renewable energy policies. These same firms took advantage of the two major storms which occurred in 1999 and 2009. Our study traces the development of a “local” wood energy policy aimed at consolidating well established firms and intensifying silvicultural management practices, which raise a number of questions regarding the true potential for energy transition gained from such a system.