The study shows that energy crops can make a significant contribution to the energy transition, particularly by providing biomass as a key renewable energy source. At the same time, however, their expansion brings with it considerable challenges: rising demand leads to competition for agricultural land, which can affect food production and trigger indirect land-use changes worldwide – such as the expansion of cropland in sensitive ecosystems. As a result, what were originally positive climate protection effects can be reversed. To mitigate these risks, the report recommends a stronger ecological focus in cultivation, the use of residues and waste materials, and the further development and expansion of sustainability certifications to better ensure the actual climate impact of bioenergy.