Combined biomass network design: A new integrated approach based on ArcGIS

Abstract

In light of contemporary energy and environmental objectives, a pivotal transformation of the energy system, encompassing biomass energy, is imperative. A notable challenge in biomass energy facility layout planning is the trade-off between high-efficiency production and the associated investment costs. To harmonize energy efficiency with economy viability, a hybrid layout with the simultaneous construction of centralized and decentralized biomass energy facilities has emerged as a crucial strategic solution. However, the delineation methods for these two layouts lack explicit data support. This study established a population density threshold (PDT) suitable for selecting the distributed layout and employed population density as the criterion for delineating the two layouts. Taking Fuxin City as an example, hybrid layout planning schemes were generated under different PDTs, and a cost and energy benefit analysis framework was developed for these schemes. The results indicated that the scheme with a PDT of 145 person/km2 exhibited the highest energy and economic comprehensive benefits. Compared to a single layout, the planning strategy proposed in this study could achieve nearly the same energy surplus level while saving an investment cost ranging from 2403.9 million CNY to 25,000.23 million CNY. The findings are applicable to other regions with similar conditions, and the analysis framework proposed in this study can be utilized in formulating biomass development strategies for other countries and regions.