Evaluation of potential of energetic development in isolated zones with wide biodiversity: NIZ Chocó-Colombia case study

Abstract

The implementation of a hybrid biomass gasification-photovoltaic system for electricity generation in isolated regions was evaluated. Experiments were carried out to test the gasification of agricultural residual biomass in a downdraft fixed-bed gasifier coupled to an internal combustion engine and a photovoltaic system with this set-up, electricity was successfully generated by means of rice husk (RH) gasification, which produced a synthesis gas with a calorific value below 3–5 MJ/N m3. The gas was purified sufficiently to make it profitable in an engine through a simple cleaning system. The main contribution is given by the proposal of a hybrid system adapted to climatic conditions and renewable resources settled in the region; In order to have a portable and autonomous system. Where it can be concluded that a hybrid solar-biomass system is a versatile alternative to contribute to the generation and efficient use of electrical energy. The hybrid system provided a stable electricity supply of 24–27 kWh. Along with the analysis of residual biomass availability in the Chocó region, this indicates that the implementation of technological alternatives such as the ones tested in this research are able to sustainably fulfill the energy needs of isolated communities by making use of the resources coming from their own agricultural activities. Also, the conclusions show that the best hybrid system, from the technician-economic point of view for the energy.