Modelling Biomass Potentials of Energy Crops in Germany and Austria using Remote Sensing Data

Abstract

The German Remote Sensing Data Center (DFD) is operating the process model BETHY/DLR (Biosphere Energy Transfer Hydrology Model). The model is driven by remote sensing data derived from the sensor VEGETATION (GLC2000 and time series of the leaf area index (LAI)) while meteorological input data are derived from the European Center for Medium Range Weather Forecast (ECMWF). In order to link the modelled NPP with crop yield estimates derived from national statistics of Germany and Austria the assimilated amount of carbon for each pixel is converted to above and below ground biomass and finally to crop yield using plant specific factors. For correlating statistical results with modelled data the estimated yield per pixel is aggregated to yield per administrative district (NUTS-3 level). A coefficient of determination of 0.67 for Germany and 0.83 for Austria was found. BETHY/DLR slightly overestimates the biomass for Austria.