Integrated Power Plant Fired by Syngas from Solid Wastes and Natural Gas with Case for Energy Storage

Abstract

The study presents an integrated power generation system fired by dual-fuel (syngas from solid wastes and natural gas) with a carbon capture technology to minimize greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and landfills. This study is vital because the upstream power sector's decarbonisation is necessary for attaining a low emission future. The study results show that electrical power at 208.8 MW can be harnessed from an optimal syngas and natural gas composition at 0.47 and 0.53, respectively. The technical efficiency of the system is 43%; the carbon dioxide (CO2) emission factor is 0.029 tonnes per MWh, and the CO2 transportation rate is 612.2 kilotonnes per year. The total cost of the proposed power system is estimated at USD 236.7 million, the unit cost of energy is 0.141 USD per kWh, CO2 avoidance cost is 110 USD per tonnes of CO2, and the payback period is 5.2 years. The study also presents a pathway to incorporate hydrogen energy storage into the proposed plant for the reliability of electricity supply at all seasons. However, future research work is required to optimally incorporate hydrogen energy storage into the proposed integrated power plant. Keywords: Dual fuel • syngas • carbon capture • clean energy access • integrated power plant • climate change • decarbonisation • hydrogen energy storage