Small Modular Power System for Clean Energy Generation

Abstract

The overall goal of this project is to design, develop and demon-strate a 50-kW modular gasi fication system for grid-connected combinedheat and power using forest residue.Building on the success of the previous 12.5-kW small modularbiomass project, this new project will result in the development anddemonstration of a 50-kW small modular biopower (SMB) system de-signed for a parallel connection to the local utility grid and capable ofcontinuous operation. This project will support the goal of a commer-cially viable small modular biopower system.A SMB system will be designed and developed and tested in atwo-phase program. The first phase involves a one-year R&D programto design, fabricate, and factory test a 50-kW system. During secondphase, this new first of its kind unit will be grid-connected, and fielddemonstrated in California for two years.The SMB system shall be designed to meet or exceed The CaliforniaAir Resources Board (CARB) emission standards, including nitrogen ox-ides, volatile organic compounds, and particulate matter, for a combinedheat and power distributed generation system. The engine/generator setwill be capable of operating 24 hours per day, 6 days per week.This project supports the Public Interest Energy Research (PIER)program objectives of improving cost competitiveness of the biomassenergy conversion technologies and reducing environmental risks andcost of electricity.