Performance analysis of a RDF gasification and solar thermal energy based CCHP system

Abstract

Municipal solid wastes (MSW) are, through the amount generated and energy content, one of the energy resources that can successfully contribute to covering energy consumption at local or regional level. The integration of this resource in modern energy systems can increase the penetration of renewable energy resources in energy supply. One of the most promising technologies for converting waste into energy is gasification. As conventional district heating and cooling systems require decarbonization, one solution is the use of waste gasification and solar energy conversion equipment. This paper analysis from an energetic and economic point of view the possibility of using the fuel produced by the gasification of refuse derived fuel (RDF) and solar thermal energy in a gas engine based combined cooling, heating and power generation (CCHP) system to be integrated into a district heating and cooling system. The proposed system can generate 27295685 Nm3/year of producer gas, 14.57 GWh/year of electricity, 32.11 GWh/year of heat and 1.55 GWh/year of chilled water with a solar thermal energy input of 1.15 GWh/year. The capital cost of the CCHP system can be recovered in 9.62 years when solar collector are not used and in 6.19 years when solar collectors are used. By using RDF and solar thermal energy are saved 3567778 Nm3 of natural gas in a year.