In the heart of Thailand, a groundbreaking study led by Athipthep Boonman from The Joint Graduate School of Energy and Environment, King Mongkut’s University of Technology Thonburi, Bangkok, is set to revolutionize the way community-scale biomass power plants (CSBPPs) are designed and implemented. Published in the journal Energies, the research introduces a novel two-phase approach that promises to optimize the sustainability and efficiency of biomass supply chains, a critical step towards decentralizing Thailand’s energy system and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
Thailand’s energy landscape has long been dominated by centralized systems fueled by imports, a model that has hindered economic security and sustainability. The study addresses this challenge by proposing a comprehensive framework that combines geospatial-based Multi-criteria Decision Making (MCDM), the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method, and the Location–Allocation Model. This integrated approach not only identifies optimal locations for CSBPPs but also ensures a stable supply of biomass, a crucial factor for the success of any biomass-based energy project.
“Our model is designed to be flexible and adaptable,” Boonman explains. “By breaking down the process into two phases, we can tailor each step to the specific needs and constraints of the region. This means that our framework can be applied to other areas facing similar challenges, making it a valuable tool for energy planners and policymakers worldwide.”
The first phase of the model focuses on prioritizing land suitability criteria and analyzing suitable land areas. This involves a detailed assessment of biomass residue supply, taking into account factors such as crop residue availability, electricity demand, and road networks. The second phase uses a location–allocation model to identify the most optimal sites for CSBPPs, ensuring that these locations are not only geographically suitable but also economically viable.
The study’s findings are compelling. The Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) region of Thailand, for instance, has an estimated total remaining crop residue potential of 2,403 kilotons per year, which could generate approximately 34,156 terajoules of energy. The model identified five optimal locations for CSBPPs, with a combined installed capacity of about 100.23 megawatts, capable of serving the residential energy demand of 793.82 million kilowatt-hours per year.
One of the most significant outcomes of the study is the calculation of the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE) for these potential CSBPPs. Assuming direct combustion-steam turbine technology with an installed capacity of 6–10 MW, the average LCOE was found to be in the range of $0.076 to $0.081 USD per kilowatt-hour. This cost-effectiveness, combined with the environmental benefits of biomass energy, makes a strong case for investing in CSBPPs.
Boonman emphasizes the importance of considering the seasonal availability of biomass and the management of fuel supply. “Sustainability is not just about finding the right location; it’s also about ensuring a steady and cost-effective supply of biomass,” he says. “Our model takes these factors into account, making it a robust tool for long-term energy planning.”
The implications of this research are far-reaching. By providing a comprehensive framework for designing sustainable biomass supply chains, the study paves the way for more efficient and environmentally friendly energy solutions. This could significantly impact the energy sector, encouraging investment in decentralized energy resources and promoting community-based energy initiatives.
As Thailand and other countries strive to achieve energy independence and sustainability, this research offers a practical and innovative solution. It not only addresses the technical challenges of biomass energy but also considers the socio-economic factors that are essential for the long-term success of such projects. With its flexible and adaptable framework, this study could shape the future of biomass energy, making it a cornerstone of sustainable energy development.
The study, published in Energies, highlights the potential of community-scale biomass power plants in transforming Thailand’s energy landscape. By optimizing the supply chain and ensuring sustainable practices, this research provides a blueprint for a greener, more resilient energy future.
