Many technical studies related to the development of biomass energy have been conducted. However, for technical solutions to contribute to economic development, they must be accepted in the market. Furthermore, improved knowledge on biomass supply and policy effects is critical in facilitating an increased flow from source to end user. The special issue "Bioenergy markets" contains ten articles which give new insight into the importance of the behaviour of market agents, the function of markets, and biomass supply. It also sheds light on the challenges of both competition between fuel-related and other uses of biomass and competition between biomass and other energy solutions. Moreover, it illustrates the importance of environmental factors and the role of policy in this area. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.