Aprochops, a model for optimisation of the primary production costs of biomass crops

Abstract

A general model approach is shown of a simulation model that can be used to calculate and optimise total costs and energy input of the primary production of Miscanthus, taking into account local weather over a large number of years. The model includes sub models of drying in the field and in storage, of soil conditions and the effect of soil damage on the yield of next years crops, due to traffic, of regrowth of shoots and timeliness loss. With historical meteorological data the model can calculate historical crop and soil characteristics. With these data the workability can be calculated. With the assumption of no climate change, the future workability and costs of various production chains can be statistically described. It is concluded that this approach is the only way to get insight in the costs of production chains accurately. The model will also made applicable for other biomass crops.