Exploring the synergies of biomass-based top-cycle CHP plants with hydrogen for industrial applications

Abstract

Combined heat and power plants (CHP) maximise the usable energy from combustion processes. By providing both usable heat and electricity, it is a flexibly adjustable technology based on demand profiles from industrial plants. Today, CHP units are mostly fuelled by fossil energy carriers, such as natural gas. However, CHPs must be operated with renewable fuels to comply with net-zero transition pathways. This study explores the economics of a biomass CHP plant in combination with an electrolyser, a dedicated renewable generation plant, and a small hydrogen storage tank for a Spanish case study. Using an optimisation model that combines electrolyser and biomass CHP operations, the cost-optimal operation is explored, considering various electricity prices and other scenarios. Under the assumption that heat generation from alternative sources can be flexibly reduced, we investigate if there are synergies between hydrogen and biomass use for CHP plants.