Techno‐economic analysis of direct combustion and gasification systems for off‐grid energy supply: A case for organic rankine cycle and dual fluidized‐bed

Abstract

Biomass is one of the most versatile sustainable energy sources. This versatility allows utilization of different biomass feedstock using a verity of conversion techniques. Often, a biomass‐to‐bioenergy conversion method is selected depending on the application, end‐use product, and the type of feedstock. In many applications such as residential energy supply, it is possible to select amongst various technologies. Although, there exist several challenges such as cost‐effectiveness and sustainability that constrains bioenergy development. To this end, this research elaborates on the impacts of different conversion methods on techno‐economic performance of bioenergy systems for residential energy supply. In this context, Organic Rankine Cycle based on direct combustion, and Dual Fluidized‐Bed technology based on gasification were selected for that purpose. A techno‐economic comparative analysis illustrates that the primary product of the system and fuel cost are the two most important factors in feasibility assessment. The negative impact of feedstock price was more severe on the Organic Rankine Cycle. For wood chips prices below 55$/t, Organic Rankine Cycle could be the better option due to lower capital and maintenance costs. In contrast, Dual Fluidized‐Bed could better tolerate the variation of feedstock price; offering 8% lower cost of energy at 65$/t wood chips.

Opportunities and Challenges of Harnessing Biomass Wastes for Decentralized Heat and Energy Generation and Climate Mitigation via Fluidized-bed Gasification Pathway

“…To determine a biomass conversion plant's economic viability, techno-economic considerations must be taken into account. In addition to end product application and feedstock availability, challenges such as cost-competitiveness and sustainability constrain bioenergy development [95]. The cost of fluidized bed gasification varies depending on factors like the region of the world, the type of feedstock, the cost of supplies for conversion processes, the size of the production, and the length of the production process.…”

Biomass Energy Potential of Agricultural Residues in the Dominican Republic

“…Fermentation is central in biofuel production but is limited by feedstock type and often requires significant preprocessing [65]. When considering the Dominican Republic's unique context, with its distinct agricultural profile and logistical challenges, gasification and direct combustion stand out in [66]. Their adaptability to various waste types and scalability makes them apt for addressing the nation's energy needs using residual biomass.…”

Numerical Study on the Steam Gasification of Biomass in a 100 kW Dual Fluidized Bed Gasifier

“…With the autothermal gasifier design, it becomes possible to avoid the introduction of air into the GR, and it enables one to conduct pure steam or CO 2 gasification for high-quality syngas production. Bagherian et al showed that DFB is able to avoid bed material/biomass agglomeration by creating two separate reaction zones, thus improving the economics. Aghaalikhani et al demonstrated that efficient gas–solid contact and heat and mass transfer in DFB significantly benefit hydrogen production via biomass steam gasification.…”