The economies of all countries, and particularly of the developed countries, are dependent on secure supplies of energy. Energy security means consistent availability of sufficient energy in various forms at affordable prices. These conditions must prevail over the long-term if energy is to contribute to sustainable development. Attention to energy security is critical because of the uneven distribution of the fossil fuel resources on which most countries currently rely. The energy supply could become more vulnerable over the near term due to the growing global reliance on imported oil. Biomass is a domestic resource which is not subject to world price fluctuations or the supply uncertainties as of imported fuels.