Feasibility study of a cogeneration plant using sawdust

Abstract

Feasibility study of a co generation plant using saw dust was carried out. The selected site was the Associated Motor Ways Factory, Kalutara. The electrical energy demand and the thermal energy demand of the factory were assessed by carrying out an energy audit in the factory. The daily saw dust availability from the Moratuwa area was assessed by carrying out a site survey in the saw mills in this area. It was determined that the availability of saw dust would be sufficient to cater for the electricity and thermal energy requirements of the factory.// Economic analysis was carried out for the four basic scenarios of base electrical load; matching, base thermal load matching, peak electrical load matching and peak thermal load matching. It showed that all the four scenarios are feasible with favorable economic parameters. Nevertheless there are merits and demerits among each of these scenarios and these were discussed reference to each scenario. Base electrical load matching showed the most favorable economics giving an IRR value of 34%.