Testbed for medium scale biomass combustion

Purpose and goal

The purpose of this study has been to evaluate if a test bed for medium scale biomass combustion (heat and power production 0.5 - 15 MWth), could be realized. The objective has been to produce a plan describing how such test bed could be developed and used. The objective has been reached partly. The project has evaluated the prerequisites for a test bed and come the conclusion that there is potential for a test bed system using ordinary infrastructure. It is, however, difficult to motivate industry to engage economically, which is why a concrete plan for realization has not been developed.

Results and expected effects

The results show that there foremost is a potential for a cost efficient test bed system in the enhanced cooperation between in-active test beds, industrial test plants and research. However, it is very important that partnership between industrial actors can act as a clear receiver, and that the test bed is efficiently used for both testing and normal commercial activities. Expected effects are continued enhanced development of a test bed system using commercially acting plants adapted for testing, measurements and research.

Approach and implementation

An initial survey of existing infrastructure for testning was made, and addressed development needs were analyzed. Based on this, a stakeholder analysis was performed among plant and component manufacturers, energy companies and fuel companies. The survey and the stakeholder analysis resulted in the necessary information to draw the main conclusions on the development of test beds. Due to the results, a concrete establishment plan, incl time plan and budget, could not be made, but was restricted to a discussion followed by recommendation on how to proceed.