Large amounts of thermal energy are required for different unit operations in the pulp and paper industry. Typically, this energy is distributed by means of steam. In this study, introduction of in-situ-generated syngas as an energy carrier in parallel to the predominant steam has been investigated. The examined systems use dual fluidized-bed gasification integrated with a solid fuel boiler of a paper mill together with impingement drying in combination with cylinder drying, a concept enabling higher specific drying rates. The studied systems exhibit reduced overall energy use when compared to the present situation with conventional steam-heated cylinder drying. Cold tar cleaning by condensation/absorption and firing of the syngas in a gas turbine followed by utilization of the exhaust gases for drying are interesting options because this results in reduced biomass consumption with maintained power production.