Biomass CHP Facility
Overview of the Biomass CHP Facility
Benefits
Overview of the key benefits
Using biomass as the fuel source for the CHP system that supplies heat and power to the greenhouse offers several key benefits:
- Renewable and sustainable energy supply
- Higher fuel efficiency (about 80%) compared to conventional thermal energy systems like engines or boilers.
- Does not require any high-pressure steam generation and use
- Reduction in fossil fuel use and costs
- Reduction in GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions
- Additional energy that becomes available can be used for the hot-water or district heating system for nearby community and industry.
- 12 MMBtu/hr biomass combustor would be a suitable size for the first phase of the greenhouse of 12,000 sq. ft for heating and power demand.
Seasonal Heating Load
| Parameter | Spring + Fall Scenario (5 °C) | Summer Scenario (17 °C) | Winter Scenario (−22 °C) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greenhouse Air Temperature | 26 °C | 26 °C | 26 °C |
| Outside Air Temperature | 5 °C | 17 °C | −34 °C |
| Total Heating Requirement | 820,443 Btu/hr | 366,044 Btu/hr | 2,145,774 Btu/hr |
| Diesel CO₂ Emission Required* | 60.68 kg/hr | 27.07 kg/hr | 158.70 kg/hr |
| CO₂ Emission (Spring + Fall) | 9,830.15 kg | 2,192.88 kg | 12,854.82 kg |
| Total CO₂ Emission for Diesel per Year (with 90% availability) | 24,878 kg | — | — |
Next steps
Biomass feedstock availability is also a critical factor. Limited data exists on local forest biomass volumes and transport costs to the project site. A specialized firm should be engaged to conduct a formal feedstock assessment.