The global energy landscape is undergoing a significant transformation. Consumers have begun to question their energy and heat sources, as countries are increasingly seeking ways to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and transition towards more sustainable sources of energy. One such alternative is biomass, which offers a wide range of benefits compared to traditional coal-fired power plants. One of our projects at Robotto is together with a central heat & power plant in Copenhagen, where a quest to be more sustainable has pushed the organization to adopt biomass. Working closely with our partner, we became interested in biomass, how it is more sustainable, and why heat & power plants are and should be transitioning from coal to biomass- today we'll take you through what we've learned.
A Breath of Fresh Air: The Sustainability Perks of Biomass
So, what is biomass? Biomass, derived from organic materials like wood, agricultural waste, and other plant-based feedstocks, is a renewable energy source that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) when used as a replacement for coal. In contrast, coal is a finite resource, and its extraction and use contribute significantly to air pollution and climate change.
According to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), biomass-based electricity generation can potentially reduce CO2 emissions by up to 85% when compared to coal. This is largely because biomass combustion releases CO2 that was previously absorbed by plants during photosynthesis, creating a closed carbon cycle.
Additionally, biomass promotes a circular economy, as it encourages the efficient use of resources and waste management. Many industries that generate organic waste can utilize biomass technologies to convert this waste into energy, reducing the amount of material sent to landfills and lowering overall pollution levels.
Money Grows on Trees: Cost Savings with Biomass Energy
Biomass can also offer significant cost savings for heat and power plants. While the initial capital investment for biomass power plants may be higher than for coal-fired plants, operational and maintenance costs tend to be lower over the long term. Moreover, biomass feedstocks are generally less expensive than coal, which can lead to lower fuel costs for power plants.
Another cost advantage of biomass is its ability to provide combined heat and power (CHP) generation, which can increase overall energy efficiency and reduce costs for industrial consumers. CHP systems capture the waste heat generated during electricity production and utilize it for heating, cooling, or other processes, significantly improving the system's energy efficiency and lowering energy costs.
Safety First: How Biomass Can Improve Plant Safety
The adoption of biomass energy technologies can lead to improved safety in heat and power plants. Unlike coal, biomass has a lower risk of spontaneous combustion, which can reduce the likelihood of fires and other accidents. Additionally, biomass power plants can be designed with advanced safety features such as fire suppression systems and air quality monitoring to minimize risks to workers and the environment. While there is a set industry standard for monitoring coal, the large-scale adoption of biomass is relatively new, meaning monitoring operations vary from site to site. In Denmark, we've seen entire stockpiles spontaneously combust, wiping out a winter's supply.
The integration of AI and robotic solutions in biomass power plants can further enhance safety and security. For example, AI-powered surveillance systems can monitor stockpiles and detect anomalies or potential hazards, while aerial drones can conduct inspections of plant infrastructure, reducing the need for workers to perform hazardous tasks.
The Path Forward: Embracing Biomass for a Sustainable Energy Future
As the world strives to transition towards more sustainable energy sources, biomass offers an attractive alternative to coal for heat and power plants. By embracing biomass energy, power plants can benefit from improved sustainability, cost savings, and enhanced safety, all while contributing to a greener and cleaner future for everyone.
References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0961953416302424
https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/overview-greenhouse-gases#carbon-dioxide
https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=32452
https://www.eesi.org/papers/view/fact-sheet-biomass-carbon-neutrality
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214999616303501
https://www.sciencedirect.com/sc