Enhanced Energy Efficiency in Small-Scale Power Generation Using a Hybrid Solar-Biomass System With Thermal Storage

Abstract

The development of reliable and sustainable energy sources is indispensable to support the fast-growing energy demand globally. Integrated solar energy systems and biomass technologies can be utilized to develop a small-scale power generation system. It is commonly known as a hybrid solar-biomass power production system (HSBP). This system uses biomass as an additional fuel source in addition to solar collectors to capture solar energy. Compared to standalone solar or biomass setups, hybrid systems provide increased dependability and efficiency. The intermittent character of solar energy is overcome by coupling biomass energy. In this HSBP, Thermal energy storage (TES) was added to supply latent heat to operating fluids. The Therminol VP1 and Syltherm oil are preferred as working fluids with a flow rate of 0.25 kg/s. Biomass is gasified in a gasifier to produce syngas. After that, this syngas is used to run a gas turbine plant (Rankine cycle) to generate power. The experimental results reveal that, more specifically, compared to Therminol VP1, the system using Syltherm oil exhibits higher power production and efficiency. Therefore, the suggested combined solar-biomass system with thermal oil and TES is appropriate for producing electricity for a small residential building or dwelling using the Rankine cycle.