Algal biomass has been identifi ed as a promising substrate for energy production. Several lab scale experiments have been performed on diff erent species of both macroalgae and microalgae. The high content of carbohydrates
makes both macroalgae and microalgae appealing feedstock for bioethanol and biogas production. Unfortunately, so far no industrial scale plant has been set
up. This is a demonstration that there are still constraints to be overcome. This study will tackle the fi rst obstacle for the development of this technology: the feedstock supply to a potential biorefi nery. This study evaluates diffi culties and
constraints in the macroalgae and microalgae growth process though the utilization of the Life Cycle Assessment and an economic evaluation. In particular a case
study of Saccharina latissima cultivation site in Limfjorden
(Denmark) and a microalgae cultivation site in Finland
will be compared and presented. Minimum feedstock
requirement for a biorefi nery, minimum selling price and
infl uence of transport of the raw material, provide useful
information for system design.