Assessment of the energetic feasibility of a novel CHP biorefinery concept

Sammanfattning: This study investigates the potential for energetic self-reliance in an integrated biore- finery, the Earth Power Lodge (EPL), which aims to convert waste into valuable by- products through bio- and thermochemical conversion processes. The primary questions addressed include assessing the necessity of external propane to sustain the pyrolysis process and the net energy output of the ThermoChemical Reactor (TCR) process when fractional distillation is applied to the resulting bio-oils. The study provides a compre- hensive analysis of the expected energetic performance and external fuel needs of the EPL, currently in its pilot phase, and presents an overview of modern bioenergy gen- eration. The research emphasises the importance of systems thinking, focusing on the interrelationships and interactions within the whole system. The study demonstrates that the TCR can be self-sustainable in terms of heat and electricity under certain conditions, such as the availability of high-quality digester gas and stored bio-oil. The research concludes with key findings, including the essential role of intensive microalgae processing for biogas availability, the need for bio-oil combustion for system start-up, and the potential for improving pyrolysis oil quality through distillation. The study suggests that the EPL technology holds promise for the future of energy systems due to its flexibility, decentralisation, and ability to convert waste into valuable by-products.