Gasification produces syngas, which is more transportable, operates with existing gas infrastructure, and depending on the equipment, can actually be more effic

Gasification produces syngas, which is more transportable, operates with existing gas infrastructure, and depending on the equipment, can actually be more efficient than trying to maintain a combustion reaction. Logistically, it also decouples fuel generation from electricity generation -- if you tried to burn the needles directly you have to figure out how to continually feed them to a burner and deal with the ash. By gasifying, you can create a reserve of fuel. Gasification has other benefits. It can be rigged to produce biochar, which is believed to be a beneficial soil amendment. The char could also be sequestered to effectively remove carbon from the atmosphere.