Experimental 3E analysis of a biomass gasification plant for off-grid electrification in rural Ghana

This study explores the potential of peanut shells as a feedstock for combined heat and power through biomass gasification, an alternative technology for sustainable energy production in remote areas. A comprehensive approach to 3E analysis, incorporating energy, exergy, and exergoeconomic evaluation, was applied to a pilot-scale plant, revealing promising results with an overall electrical efficiency of 20.6%, a combined heat and power (CHP) efficiency of 60.2%, and an exergy efficiency of 48.6%. The exergy analysis identified minimal losses in the gas conditioning unit (2.5%) and significant losses in the genset (35.9%), highlighting key areas for optimization. The exergoeconomic assessment reveals an electricity cost of $0.05/kWh, making it competitive with diesel generators for off-grid regions. This work demonstrates the potential of peanut shells as a valuable biomass resource, showcasing the importance of a 3E experimental approach for both improving waste management and contributing to sustainable energy production in rural Ghana.