Abstract
Considering that renewable energy is the primary energy source in the future, this study investigates biomass power for sustainable and secure energy supply. Biomass fuels in Malaysia include empty fruit bunch, mesocarp fiber, palm kernel shell, oil palm frond, oil palm trunk from palm oil plantation, and woody biomass from forests. The moisture content and heating value of palm oil-based biomass fuels are analyzed relative to their cost savings in a 10 MW biomass power plant. The net present value, internal rate of return, and payback period for various finance options and at various system efficiencies are also presented. Results indicate that for an empty fruit bunch priced at MYR 20/t without loan, the net present values are MYR 45.31 million, MYR 54.32 million, and MYR 57.74 million, with 20%, 30%, and 40% system efficiencies, respectively; the internal rates of returns are 21.88%, 22%, and 21.11%, respectively; and the payback periods are 4.16, 4.20, and 4.22 y, respectively. The 10 MW plant releases 50,130 t less CO2, 750 t less SO2, 218.65 t less NOx, and 22.83 t less CO emissions in the environment compared with the existing energy mix.
•Biomass-based power generation can secure sustainable and clean energy supply.•Moisture content of biomass affects energy conversion efficiency and cost.•Low-cost palm biomass is a potential source of biomass-based power in Malaysia.•Biomass-based power plant can save currency by reducing import of fossil fuels.•The plant can improve environmental sustainability by reducing gas emissions.