Title:
Energy Balance of the Production and Use of Miscanthus for Energy Purposes, in Portugal
Author(s):
Cipriano, P., Fernando, A.L.
Document(s):
Paper
Abstract:
The aim of this study is to evaluate the energy balance of the production and use of Miscanthus for energy purposes, in the pedoclimatic conditions of South Portugal. Combustion of the biomass was the process considered once it is largely implemented, industrially and commercially. Four different scenarios were considered; Scenario1) Biomass Power Plant (10MW); Scenario 2) Biomass Power Plant (0,1MW); Scenario 3) domestic system for the pellets combustion. Pellets are being produced in an unit at the frontier of the farm; Scenario 4) domestic system for the pellets combustion. Pellets are being produced in the field at the same time of the harvest. In all scenarios, energy efficiencies determined were higher than unit (Scenario 1: 14,1; Scenario 2: 12,9; Scenario 3: 9,4; Scenario 4: 8,8) and the energy balances presented positive values. Scenario1 – Combustion of Miscanthus in a Biomass Power Plant (10MW), is the most advantageous. Conversion, irrigation, and, in the case of pellets use in domestic systems, transportation, were the factors that most contributed for the energy consumption. Irrigation and harvest date were the factors that mostly affected the energy efficiency of the system. No irrigation after the 3rd year of the crop increases significantly the energy efficiency. To harvest in January, means a significant reduction of the energy efficiency of the system.
Keywords:
energy balance, miscanthus, sustainability
Topic:
Biomass Resources
Subtopic:
Energy crops and energy grasses
Event:
20th European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
1DV.2.54
Pages:
608 - 611
ISBN:
978-88-89407-54-7
Paper DOI:
10.5071/20thEUBCE2012-1DV.2.54
Price:
FREE
