Optimizing the performance of a biomass power plant: Technical-economic and energy analysis

Abstract In recent decades, global dependence on fossil fuels has contributed significantly to climate imbalances. Faced with these environmental challenges, interest in renewable and permanent energy sources, particularly biomass, is growing steadily. The present study is part of this dynamic and aims to valorize waste from barley straw, corn stalks, wheat straw, forestry residues and urban wood waste, for multiple energy applications, notably electricity and heat production. The main objective is to optimize and select the best technique for making a biomass power plant highly efficient. This involved varying raw material handling, the type of combustion system and three key boiler parameters, as part of a project to install a biomass power plant in the wilaya of Bejaïa, Algeria. The statistical data collected made it possible to estimate the plant's heat and electricity production potential, as well as its overall efficiency. A comprehensive techno-economic analysis accompanies this work, incorporating investment costs, operating expenses, waste-to-energy infrastructure and viable economic models for the deployment of biomass power plants in the study area. The results show that waste-to-energy can cover the energy needs of around 33,000 inhabitants. In addition, the use of a specific type of boiler, with a steam quality of 950°F and 1200 psi(g), was found to be an optimal solution, offering an efficiency of 89% and a Levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of 9.05 $/kWh.