The main objective is the successful implementation of cost-efficient and consumer-oriented SRC-value-chains in regions with unfavourable conditions. The research project covers all process steps of the SRC-value chain and is structured in five work packages (WP):

• WP1: Cost optimization through an adapted matching between plant material characteristics, site conditions and plantation management (INRA).
• WP2: Improvement of harvesting systems and transport logistics with regard to specific site conditions (steep slopes, long rotation periods with large stem-diameters) (FVA).
• WP3: Simulation of storing and conditioning of SRC raw material regarding end product key-properties under consideration of different site conditions and field-sizes (HFR).
• WP4: The economics of SRC-value chains and optimization strategies with respect to site location and dimension (IER).
• WP5: New business concepts for successful implementation of a product-oriented wood fuel value chain from SRC (UNIQUE).
   

The development of strategies allowing a major cost reduction and a higher efficiency shall be achieved by an innovative approach to initialize intensive and early cooperation between producers and consumers. Inside these co-operations, the SRC-production will concentrate on the requirements of industrial consumers. Based on the known value chain structures all major processes like the production (species-site matching, spacing, rotation), harvest, logistics and conditioning of SRC-products are streamlined.