Abstract
Biomass, bioenergy and negative emission technologies are inherent to the future design of energy systems. Urban clusters have a growing demand for fuel, heat and electricity, which is both a challenge and an opportunity for biomass-based technologies. Their deployment should meet demand, while minimizing environmental impact and staying cost-competitive. We develop a systematic approach for the design, evaluation and ranking of biomass-to-X production strategies under uncertain market conditions. We assemble state-of-the-art and innovative conversion technologies, based on feedstock, by-products and waste characteristics. Technical specifications, as well as economic and environmental aspects are estimated based on literature values and industry experts input. Embedded into a bi-level mixed-integer linear programming formulation, the framework identifies and assesses current and promising strategies, while establishing the most robust and resilient designs. The added value of this approach is the inclusion of sub-optimal routes which might outperform competing strategies under different market assumptions. The methodology is illustrated in the anaerobic digestion of food and green waste biomass used as a case study in the current Swiss market. By promoting a fair comparison between alternatives it highlights the benefits of energy integration and poly-generation in the energy transition, showing how biomass-based technologies can be deployed to achieve a more sustainable future.
Highlights
The global energy system is changing due to the need of curbing greenhouse gas emissions
The continuous generation of biowaste and the ongoing pressure on natural resources urges for flexible energy systems, whereas increasing complexity claims for comprehensive approaches
Sustainable development goals comprise the gradual replacement of fossil fuels, progressive deployment of renewable energy and negative CO2 emissions
Summary
The global energy system is changing due to the need of curbing greenhouse gas emissions. The large majority of European countries have set ambitious goals by defining a carbon-neutral policy by 2050. Achieving a sustainable future relies on the introduction of renewable feedstocks and energy sources and on efficient and integrated systems. Defined as a carbon-neutral energy source, biomass can be regarded as a promising energy storage option, compensating for the progressive phase-out of fossil fuels. In this context, Sepulveda et al (Nestor, 2021) have recently highlighted the role of firm low-carbon technologies in balancing future energy systems, decisively contributing for cost-effective zero-emission systems.
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