Comparative study of a combined heat and power plant retrofitted by CO2 capture during the combustion of syngas from sewage sludge gasification versus zero-emission combustion of hydrogen produced using renewables

Abstract

With ecological requirements aimed at limiting the production of CO2, it is necessary to produce all, or most of the energy from RES. During the transformation process, ecological and highly efficient combustion power plants will be needed. The classic cycle of combined heat and power (CCGT) with green improvements will continue to be one of the most suitable technologies for this task. This article presents the modernization of the CCGT power plant in Zielona Góra in terms of possible solutions to reduce CO2 emissions and cooperation with RES producing hydrogen. Two variants of retrofit were considered: CO2 capture following the combustion of syngas obtained from gasification of sewage sludge, and emission-free hydrogen combustion in a gas turbine. Calculations were made using numerical modelling and the obtained results were validated. Avoided CO2 emissions for both solutions are shown. The proposed upgrades were compared with the basic variant and other gaseous fuels.